Facial fat grafting is a procedure that involves harvesting fat from the abdominal area and depositing into facial creases and lines. This procedure may also be done to add subtle volume to the cheeks. The facial lines appear smoother and softer, while the cheek area will have a more full, youthful appearance. The results may last longer than other synthetic fillers due to the fact that it is your own tissue being used as the filler. Prior to the procedure Dr. Burgess will have an in-depth consultation with patients and determine the areas of the face that will most benefit from facial fat grafting. Together, a treatment plan is established. This procedure can be performed within the clinic or in the hospital, when done in conjunction with other facial surgeries. There are multiple reasons people chose to undergo facial fat grafting procedures, including:
To enhance their appearance and self-confidence.
To better match their outward appearance with how they feel physically or emotionally.
To restore their original facial features and make them appear more rested.
To smooth deep smile lines and to add a youthful fullness to the cheek area.
Surgical Candidates:
Good physical and mental health.
Maintain realistic goals for surgical results.
Procedure:
Performed in the clinic using local anesthetic. Numbing medicine is injected so patients are comfortable during the procedure. If having other cosmetic surgeries at the same time, patients are normally under a general anesthetic within the hospital.
The procedure involves injecting numbing medicine into the fatty tissue of the abdomen. Then, using specialty instruments, the fat is carefully extracted from the abdominal area. One benefit is that it reduces fat in this region as well. The harvested fat is then expertly redistributed into predetermined areas of the face using fine cannulas.
The harvest sites of the abdomen are closed with dissolving sutures. There are no stitches used in the facial area.
After Surgery:
Oral pain medications are prescribed to control discomfort following the procedure, if needed.
Oral antibiotics are taken following the procedure for 48 hours.
It is advised to avoid vigorous exercise or heavy lifting for several weeks after the procedure.
Traveling far distances is not recommended in the first month following surgery.
Dr. Burgess will track your results closely throughout the weeks and months following your facial fat grafting procedure.
Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Elisa A. Burgess specializes in Lake Oswego face lift as well as eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), liposuction, tummy tuck and breast augmentation. She serves the entire northwest Portland / Vancouver metro area and beyond.
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