Although various dermal fillers can help restore lost volume due to aging, facial fat grafting in Salt Lake City is a natural way to replenish hollow features of the face.

What is Facial Fat Grafting?

Facial fat grafting, also known as micro fat transfer, uses the patient’s purified donated fat to restore volume in certain areas of the face, such as the cheeks, temples, wrinkles, and lips. First, the fat is harvested from common areas of the body, including the abdomen, hips, or flanks to be transferred or grafted into the treatment area(s).

Who is a Candidate for Facial Fat Grafting?

Any healthy individual with realistic expectations of their cosmetic treatment may be a good candidate for facial fat transfer. The patient will need some donor fat to be gently liposuctioned from an area of the body for facial rejuvenation. It’s important to have a thorough conversation about your aesthetic goals with Dr. Howland during your consultation to ensure your desired results.

What to Expect

Facial fat grafting is one of the most natural procedures. Dr. Howland begins the procedure by harvesting a certain amount of fat from a donor area. The fat is then spun in a centrifuge and purified to be reinjected back into predetermined treatment areas, such as the cheeks, lips or temples.

Facial Fat Grafting Results

Results of your procedure will be apparent immediately after, however, some fat will be reabsorbed by the body and your final results will develop within a few days. You will see an improvement in volume, a smoother complexion and a more youthful appearance with just one procedure. Additionally, facial fat grafting lasts longer than traditional fillers, but aging is inevitable and may affect your results but not for a few years.

If you are considering facial fat grafting, contact Dr. Howland today to request your consultation. Get a more youthful look the most natural way possible.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for facial fat grafting to settle?

It can take 1-2 months for your final appearance to emerge after facial fat grafting as swelling subsides and the fat establishes a new blood supply.

When can I sleep on my side after facial fat transfer?

You should avoid sleeping on your side for 4-6 weeks after facial fat grafting. Putting extended pressure on your face can negatively impact your results during this time.

Can I wash my face after facial fat transfer?

After 24 hours, you can carefully wash your face but make sure not to scrub it. Use a gentle soap and pat your face dry with a soft towel.

Should I massage my face after fat transfer?

Avoid facial massages for about 4 weeks after your fat transfer.

What can you not do after facial fat transfer?

Strenuous activity, exercise, and massages should be avoided for 4 weeks after a facial fat transfer.

What are the risks of fat transfer to face?

Bruising, swelling, and temporary numbness are all common risks of a fat transfer to the face but these side effects will resolve on their own. Bleeding and fat embolism are also possible which is why it is important to receive treatment from a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Howland.

How long does it take for swelling to go down in face after fat grafting?

Most swelling and bruising will improve within 2 weeks but it can take up to 6 months for the swelling to completely go down.

How long does it take to heal from fat grafting?

You can return to work and some of your normal activities within 1-2 weeks, but strenuous activities that could exert pressure must be avoided for about 4 weeks. The fat can take about 6 months to completely settle.

When can I wear makeup after fat grafting?

If needed, you can apply a little bit of makeup the day after your fat grafting procedure but you must be careful not to apply it to the treatment areas.