As we age, our faces lose volume, particularly in areas like the cheeks, lips and around the eyes. Liposuction procedures can often be combined with volume restoration of the face, transferring the removed fat to areas where it is needed. The fat is injected using blunt needles so no facial scars are created during the procedure. As opposed to synthetic dermal fillers, the transferred fat stays permanently where it is placed. Sometimes it is necessary to repeat the procedure as some of the fat is absorbed, but often one treatment is all you need.
Fat is removed from your donor area through a suction cannula in the same way a liposuction procedure is performed. This is done very gently to help minimize trauma to the fat cells during the process. The fat is then centrifuged and purified to separate the fat cells from the harvested fluid. This fat is then expertly injected while contouring and molding the target area, to give the desired effect.
Recovery
- A dressing or bandages may be applied after surgery dependent on the area grafted. This will be changed at your first post-operative appointment.
- You may feel tender and there may be some swelling after the procedure. A pressure garment may be required on your donor area just like in liposuction. Like all surgical procedures, early mobilization after surgery promotes healthier circulation and a quicker recovery.