As your face loses volume and elasticity with age, certain cosmetic procedures can help you look and feel your best. This is why many people choose to undergo facial fat grafting. Performed by a plastic surgeon, this treatment has helped countless men and women regain their youthful appearance and confidence. This guide explains some basic facts about fat grafting and what you can expect from the procedure.

What to Know About Facial Fat Grafting

What Is Fat Grafting?

Also known as fat transfer, fat grafting brings fat cells from one area of the body to another. When using this treatment on the face, a surgeon will remove fat from the hips, thighs, stomach, or other areas and move it to parts of the face. This will fill the hollow areas of the face that have formed with age.

Who Is a Candidate for This Procedure?

Anyone who chooses to undergo fat grafting for facial augmentation will have a consultation with a plastic surgeon. During this appointment, the surgeon will ensure that you are in good health and have enough fat for a transfer. The doctor will also determine if this procedure is the best way to address your concerns or if another treatment — such as BOTOX® injections or a brow lift — will be more appropriate.

What Is the Procedure Like?

Fat grafting involves a series of small incisions and is performed under local anesthesia. After the surgeon removes the fat from predetermined areas of the body, they will then inject it into the face. Since some of the fat cells will not survive the transplant, the doctor may fill the area with extra cells. Once the fat implants are in place, the surgeon will close the incision.

What Can I Expect From the Recovery?

Recovery from facial fat transfer takes several weeks. Patients should take at least a week off from work and activities, as the swelling will begin to subside during this time. You will also need to avoid exercise for several weeks. Generally, patients will see their desired results in six months. During this time, your plastic surgeon may want to see you for follow-up appointments to ensure that the transfer is succeeding.

To help you feel your best, Johnny Mao, MD, FACS, of Mao Facial Plastic Surgery offers various state-of-the-art procedures. Serving patients in Orange, CT, Dr. Mao and his practice partner Dr. Richard Restifo specialize in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, brow lifts, facelifts, eyelid surgery, facial fat grafting, and BOTOX injections. Whether you are recovering from an accident or want to enhance your overall appearance, this team can create a treatment plan for you. For more information on their facility and services, visit their website today. You can also call (203) 907-0501 to set up a consultation.