Fat injection, also referred to as fat transfer, is a cosmetic surgery procedure in which fat is harvested from a distant location, usually the abdomen or lateral thigh, and then injected into selected areas of the face. This effectively restores volume in areas where soft tissue volume loss has occurred as a result of the aging process. The procedure can fill wrinkles and lines, enhance the lips, and improve some scars and other skin depressions to restore a smoother, more youthful appearance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fat injection is a good procedure for individuals with volume deflation in areas around the eyes, cheek or mouth. Multiple areas can be performed at one setting, however more than one session is often needed due to partial fat resorption. Patients should also be aware that while fat is removed from the donor area with liposuction, this does not intend to contour the area. As with other types of surgery, patients should be in good physical health and have realistic expectations for improvement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dr. O\u2019Mara may perform the fat transfer procedure at an outpatient surgery center or in the office procedure room. Procedural times average one to two hours. Local anesthesia is used for office procedures, and IV sedation is administered at the surgery center. Fat is harvested using liposuction techniques and then placed into a centrifuge which isolates the fat cells. These fat cells are then transferred to small syringes, which are used to precisely place the fat into the specific facial location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Patients may experience some bruising after the fat injection procedure \/ fat transfer procedure and this can last one to two weeks. Swelling may also occur, along with discomfort which is generally very minimal. Most patients can return to work within one to two weeks, though strenuous activities and exercise will need to be postponed for about three weeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n