When Fat Is a Good Thing!

Posted June 30, 2017 in Fat Grafting

Most of the time when a person hears the word “fat” it puts a shiver up their spine. Fat may not be a “four-letter word,” but it can make some of us cringe like it is one. Fat pertaining to body weight is the reason why the idea of it is daunting. Ideally, a majority of people want to do anything in their power to get rid of fat to look and feel better about their bodies. However, a lack of fat in the face can make a person look older. When the aging process takes hold, most people will begin to lose facial volume that causes the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and creases.

Restoring Facial Volume With Fat

There are many treatments such as facial injectables that can restore volume to the face; however, there is a more natural option available. Fat grafting is a procedure designed to add facial fullness. Unlike facial fillers, fat grafting uses a person’s fat instead of hyaluronic acid—a common ingredient found in some injectable treatments. Fat grafting continues to spike in popularity. In fact, most plastic surgeons now use fat grafting as part of facelift surgery.

The Procedure

Fat grafting involves the use of fat injections extracted from an area of the body that has excess fat, and it is replanted into the face to smooth and enhance the facial features. Common areas fat is taken from are the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks. The donor site is prepared with a local anesthetic. The fat is drawn using a syringe attached to a large needle or cannula. The fat is cleaned, purified, and placed in small needles. The fat is then strategically injected into the face to create desired results. Fat grafting can also be used as a technique for buttock augmentation. Commonly referred to as the Brazilian Butt Lift, patients can also use their fat to sculpt and shape the buttocks.

The Recovery

Most patients will experience a very short post-surgical period. Patients should limit their activity for the first few days and refrain from applying facial cosmetics. Dr. Cohn will advise you of when the best time is to resume regular activity and exercise. There will be some soreness and swelling for the first few weeks. Patients should refrain from touching or applying pressure to the surgical incisions. Medications will be administered to help with any pain and to reduce the risk of infection.

The Results

Once swelling and bruising have subsided, patients will notice how much smoother and full their face appears. Results may not be immediate, as the fat takes the time to be absorbed by the body. It could take a few weeks for full results to become apparent. At this time, patients will notice a younger, more improved version of themselves. They will see a significant improvement in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Patients that follow a healthy lifestyle, such as refraining from smoking tobacco and following a routine skin care regimen, can achieve long-lasting results.
If you would like to learn more about fat grafting, Dr. Cohn can provide you with all the information you need. He can evaluate your facial anatomy and goals to help you decide on the right treatment for you. Schedule your consultation today! Contact us by calling (205) 590-9900 or by filling out our online contact form.