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Fat Grafting/Fat Transfer in Beverly Hills, CA
Award-winning, celebrity facial plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills, New York City, and Dubai
Schedule A ConsultationFat grafting or fat transfer is a cosmetic procedure that uses the patient’s own fat to restore lost volume in the face. Comparing this operation to other facial rejuvenation techniques such as a facelift, it is less invasive. Also, autologous fat (a person’s own fat) is seen to be a safer option than dermal fillers because there is a lower chance of allergic reactions or the body rejecting it. Fat Grafting is a two-step process: extracting the fat from a different body part, such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks usually through liposuction and reinjecting it into the facial are to be treated (after it has been processed), to provide a volumizing effect.
Triple board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Harrison Lee offers this procedure to restore lost volume and sculpt the face with a natural result.
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What Are the Benefits of Fat Grafting/Fat Transfer?
Volume loss and skin laxity are both common causes of facial aging. As the body loses collagen and elastin, the face develops fine lines and wrinkles and can lose a youthful appearance. Fat grafting or fat transfer is an effective procedure to restore lost volume or to create a more sculpted appearance. The benefits of fat grafting or fat transfer include:
- Restored volume and plumpness to the lips, under eyes, cheeks, and jawline
- Reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Less risk of rejection or allergic reactions
- A more natural-looking result
- Results from fat grafting last much longer than dermal fillers
- Minimal downtime and recovery
What Are My Fat Grafting/Fat Transfer Options?
Fat grafting is a highly customizable procedure, as Dr. Lee will tailor the process entirely to your needs. The first step is to select the part of the body from which your fat will be harvested. Liposuction removes fat from the body, and the donor area must have enough excess fat for fat grafting. Dr. Lee will discuss your options during your consultation, but most patients have liposuction on their abdomen, thighs, or flanks.
Facial Rejuvenation Procedures
You may also choose to combine your fat grafting procedure with another facial rejuvenation surgery. This will depend on your aging concerns and aesthetic goals.
Dr. Lee is an expert in facial enhancement, so whatever your goals, Dr. Lee can guide you through the process of evaluating the fat grafting procedure and developing a plan that can help achieve your desired aesthetic outcome.
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How Is Fat Grafting/Fat Transfer Performed?
The fat grafting procedure is a two step process which is typically performed under IV Sedation to ensure the patient’s comfort. Step One involves harvesting the fat in most cases via liposuction. The fat is usually harvested from the abdomen, thighs and hips depending on the patient’s body structure using micro canullas.
Once the fat has been removed, it will be purified and prepared for reinjection. Dr. Lee will carefully inject the fat into the target area, such as the lips, cheeks, under the eyes, or other areas of the face until it reaches the desired size and shape.
How Long Is Fat Grafting/Fat Transfer Recovery?
You can go home immediately after your fat grafting/fat transfer procedure, but you must have someone drive you home. You will be unable to drive until the next day as you may be recovering from anesthesia.
The length of your recovery may vary, depending on if you have combined procedures. Minor swelling and bruising is expected which will subside over time. You should be able to return to normal activities within a day or two following your procedure. Dr. Lee will provide you with specific aftercare instructions.
When Will I See My Fat Grafting/Fat Transfer Results?
Results from the fat grafting/fat transfer procedure are immediate. You will see an increase in volume and plumpness in the desired areas. Patients with fat injections to the cheeks or jawline will notice an improvement in the contour and sculpt of the face. However the final results will be evident in a few months.
Fat Transfer/Fat Grafting Frequently Asked Questions
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Will I have scarring after my fat transfer/fat grafting?
Minor incision may be necessary to collect the fat via liposuction. These incisions usually result in minimal scarring. When the processed fat is injected into the facial areas there is minimal to almost no visible scarring as no incisions are made as the fat grafting is performed using syringes. You will have minor puncture wounds, but these should quickly heal.
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How long does the fat transfer/fat grafting procedure take?
The length of the fat grafting/fat transfer procedure will vary from patient to patient, depending on the extent of the treatment and if you have combined procedures. For fat grafting alone, the process usually takes one to two hours, again depending on the amount of fat being transferred and into how many different areas are affected.
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How long will my fat transfer/fat grafting results last?
One of the benefits of fat transfer over other methods, such as dermal filler injections, is that it can last much longer. The length of time will vary from patient to patient based on proper care and no significant body changes.
To schedule a confidential fat grafting/fat transfer consultation, please contact our office at (310) 777-2627 or request a consultation online.