procedure

Structural
Fat Graft

Procedure overview

Structural Fat Grafting is the transfer of fat from one area of the body to another. Fat is used in reconstruction of defects, but more commonly cosmetically to rejuvenate the face. Fat is often placed in various places in the face to restore the fat that is lost during the aging and sagging process of the face. A Structural Fat Graft is commonly used in the cheek bone area, central cheek and lips. It can also be used to rejuvenate hands. A structural Fat Graft is done in theatre under sedation and takes about 45 to 60 minutes. Normally at is taken from the lower tummy after local anaesthetic has been injected. The fat is harvested using special syringes. I follow the Coleman technique. The fat is put in a centrifuge and the living fat cells isolated. These fat cells are then injected into the areas that need to be rejuvenated. The fat acts as filler. It fills up dents, and lifts up skin and reduces wrinkles. I almost use it like clay to recreate shape and form on the face. For the procedure to be successful the transferred fat must live. My procedure of fat transfer is safe and effective in restoring volume to your eyes, cheeks and mid-face. It not only restores volume but improves skin quality as well.

Procedure length

A structural Fat Graft is done in theatre under sedation and takes about 45 to 60 minutes.

Anesthesia

The procedure can also be performed under local anesthesia, sedation or general anesthesia where the patient is asleep.

Inpatient / Outpatient

This is usually an outpatient procedure and the patient is discharged the same day.

Possible Side Effects

Temporary discomfort, feeling of “tightness” in the eyelid area, swelling or bruising. Excessive tearing and sensitivity to light for the first few weeks should be expected. Temporary dryness, burning, or itching of eyes may also occur but these side effects are rare.

Common Complications

Infection, bleeding, swelling of the eyelids, temporary blurred or double vision, dry eyes, formation of whiteheads, slight asymmetry in healing or scarring, difficulty in closing eyes completely (which is rarely permanent), and a lowered position of the lower eyelid of the lower lids which may require further surgery. Permanent loss of vision is a risk but this is extremely rare.

Recovery

The swelling usually diminishes from the third day on, and social activities can be restarted after about one week, sometimes with the help of some make-up.

Results

My procedure of fat transfer is safe and effective in restoring volume to your eyes, cheeks and mid-face. It not only restores volume but improves skin.