The biggest development in plastic surgery in the last few years is the addition of fat grafting to our procedures. “Fat grafting” literally means taking fat from unwanted parts of your body with a liposuction cannula, processing that fat, and reinjecting it to different areas of your body. Fat injections have varied uses such as creating fuller lips, leveling out depressed scars, filling out areas of excess fat removal from previous liposuction, or minimizing facial aging creases. Fat grafting can be very helpful to reverse some of the signs of aging, creating a more refreshed, rested appearance. Fat can also be used as a filler material to help provide fullness, enlarge a structure, or correct contour irregularities.
Because fat is your own living tissue, there are great advantages. No fillers or foreign bodies (like implants) are required. Once the fat survives, it is there forever. But because it is living tissue, not all of it will survive and there is often a need for a few treatments in order to obtain the most desirable and permanent results.
Dr. Coan is an expert in fat grafting. For additional information call the CARE Plastic Surgery office at 919.484.4884 and schedule a consultation.
How long does a facial fat grafting procedure typically take?
The total time for a facial fat grafting procedure can vary depending on the number of areas being addressed. Typically, these procedures can be anywhere between 2-4 hours. The procedure involves two main steps: harvesting fat from donor site(s) on your body (such as the abdomen or flanks), and then purifying and injecting it into the face. Each step is carefully performed to ensure safe, natural-looking, and lasting results.
What is the recovery process like after facial fat grafting?
After facial fat grafting, you may experience swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort in both the donor sites and treated areas. Most patients can return to light activities within a week or so, but it may several weeks for most of the swelling and any potential bruising to resolve. We recommend patients avoid exercise or any other strenuous activity for 6 weeks following surgery. During this time, patients will also be in a compression garment to help with swelling and overall healing. Final results are evaluated at 3 months after surgery once the majority of healing has taken place.
How soon can I see the final results of facial fat grafting?
Early results can be seen immediately and increasingly so as swelling decreases, typically within a few weeks. However, final results are evaluated 3 months after surgery. This is when after the majority of swelling subsides and the body reabsorbs a small amount of the transferred fat. The fat integrates with your own existing tissue to provide a natural enhancement, and results can be considered long-lasting.
Can facial fat grafting be combined with other cosmetic procedures?
Yes, facial fat grafting can be safely combined with other cosmetic procedures, such as facelifts, browlifts, and blepharoplasty. Combining surgeries can provide more comprehensive rejuvenation and reduce the need to have multiple surgeries. During your consultation, Dr. Coan can help determine which combination of procedures best suits your aesthetic goals.
What are the advantages of facial fat grafting compared to dermal fillers?
Facial fat grafting offers several advantages over dermal fillers. Perhaps the biggest benefit is the longevity of fat grafting as compared to dermal fillers. Fat grafting results are longer lasting, whereas dermal fillers are gradually absorbed and broken-down by the body. Dermal fillers require subsequent injections over time to maintain volume restoration. Depending on the severity of volume loss and how many filler syringes may be recommended, fat grafting can be a more cost-effective method to restore lost volume. However, this is largely patient dependent, and we recommend consulting with one of our providers to determine the best option for you and your aesthetic goals.
Meet Dr. Coan
Award-winning, nationally renowned, double board-certified Plastic Surgeon and a member of the distinguished Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS).
A monthly medspa membership, currently by invitation only, for exclusive pricing on Botox®, fillers, skincare, laser hair removal, CoolSculpting® & skinCARE products. Learn More
Real Testimonials
I am so happy with my results! This entire experience could not have been better! Dr. Coan and his staff are amazing and so caring! They answered all of my questions and made the process very pleasant! I am so happy with the way my body looks. Thank you Dr. Coan & Staff!
- Verified Care Plastic Surgery Patient
I am always impressed with Dr. Coan’s skill. He is an exceptional physician and person whose approach is always honest, attentive and intelligent.
- Verified Care Plastic Surgery Patient
April is one of the best aestheticians. She never recommends anything that is not needed. Care plastic is great in their service.
- Verified Care Plastic Surgery Patient
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