What is fat grafting to the face?
Volume loss is one of the main findings with age. That’s one of the reasons your face looks skinnier and your skin sags a bit. Volume restoration is one of the procedures used to battle the aging process. And if fat is what we are loosing, then fat is what we should use to restore volume. Fat grafting to the face is the most natural way to restore volume because it’s your own tissue, therefore rejection is not an issu.
Am I a candidate for this procedure?
If you feel your face looks nothing like it did 20 years ago because of volume loss. Fat grafting is the perfect procedure for you.
What do I need to know about this procedure?
It’s a simple one-hour procedure that can be done under local or general anesthesia. A small liposuction is performed to harvest the fat. It can be taken from anywhere. This is processed so the best fat can be used. It is then injected in the areas of the face where volume loss is most evident. A little more fat than needed is injected to anticipate a 30% reabsorption.
Are there risks involved?
Every patient that goes into an operating room for surgery needs to be aware that risks do exist. However, complications in this specific procedure are extremely rare. Dr. Mejia will go over all the possible risks of this procedure with you during the initial consultation. It is very important that you are honest with Dr. Mejia about your medical history and habits for things to go as smooth as possible.
What is the aftercare like?
Your face will be swollen after the procedure. A little more fat than needed is injected to anticipate a 30% reabsorption. Therefore your face will look a little swollen and with more volume than your final result. Cold compresses should be applied the first 3 days to reduce the swelling. Avoid sun exposure until all bruising is gone. If you’re thinking of going out, wear adequate sunblock.
How much downtime is there?
Patients can usually go back to their normal activities 3 days after surgery. Final results are seen 3-6 months after surgery when all the swelling disappears.