Fat Injections (Lipostructure®)
As we age our faces become smaller. The skin remains the same size, but bone and soft tissue decrease in size, resulting in deflation of the face. Since shrinkage of the subcutaneous tissues is the primary manifestations of aging, replacement of atrophied tissue by the restoration of volume, fat, is an obvious method of rejuvenation. With fat injections, the patient’s own fat is used to alter the structure of the face, correcting asymmetry and restoring fullness of youth, naturally and subtly.
Are you a candidate?
- If you have experienced loss of fatty tissue, either due to aging or trauma
- If you have thin lips due to aging or genes
- If you desire enhancement of the chin or jaw line
- If you do not desire to have artificial implants placed in your face
- If you desire to gain significant enhancement without major surgical procedures
- If you have facial or acne scarring
Intended Results
- Rejuvenate and enhance thinned out areas by strategically placing fat in multiple layers
- Create results that are not fully absorbed or diminished
- Fat grafting lasts longer in areas of non-movement; so while it is very successful for correction of grooves under the eyes and sunken cheeks, it may not be as successful for creating fuller lips.
- Patients may require secondary procedures to increase the volume of viable transplanted fat.
Procedure Description
In the office, under general anesthesia, body fat is harvested from appropriate areas of deposit, such as the outer thighs and/or hips. The amount of fat harvested is not likely to leave any type of noticeable effect. The fat is refined with minimal handling, and painstakingly layered into minuscule strands. This specific layering method creates a large surface area of contact with the augmented tissue. This ensures nutrition can be exchanged through capillaries in the enveloping tissue. This is essential for the fat to survive.
Recovery
- Sutures reabsorb in 3-5 days
- There is minimal bruising, if any
- There are no special dressings or drains
- Most patients resume normal activity in 2 to 3 days. Swelling usually lasts 7 to 10 days
- Avoid massage and excessive facial movement for 2 weeks
Other Options
- Autologous fat injection can be done in conjunction with a variety of facial procedures such as facelifts, eyelid and/or brow surgery or nose reshaping.
