Fat Transfer Augmentation

Fat grafting techniques used in the past have had a bad reputation because they did not provided predictable results. This problem has been corrected by Dr. Sydney R. Coleman, who developed a technique which provides very predictable results. The keys to Dr. Coleman’s technique involve very gentle harvesting of individual fat cells, centrifuging the harvested fat to remove any damaged cells, and injecting the fat in multiple layers so that each cell is surrounded by blood vessels to provide oxygen and nutrients. By injecting very small groups of fat cells in multiple layers we can create very even, natural contours, and the fat will live for many years, if not a lifetime, exactly where we place it. Each fat cell is surrounded by tissue which holds it in place and prevents movement. Facial fillers are an alternative If only a small area of the face needs to be filled, an excellent alternative to fat transfer is fillers. They include Radiesse, Juvederm, and Restylane. These are made from materials that are identical to what is already naturally present in your body, and can be injected to fill depressions without surgery (see our page on facial fillers for more information). Because fat transfer uses the patient’s own fat cells to plump up facial features, the face maintains its soft, natural feel, and long lasting improvement has been noted in most patients.

The Fat Transfer Procedure

Dr. Sanovich practices the most advanced surgical techniques, and our fat transfer procedure is performed using industry-leader Dr. Coleman’s technique. This involves a very gentle harvesting of individual fat cells, centrifuging the harvested fat to remove any damaged cells, and injecting the fat in multiple layers so that each cell is surrounded by blood vessels to provide oxygen and nutrients. 

Fat transfer is performed on an outpatient basis in our office surgical suite under light general anesthesia. Fat is harvested from the abdomen or thigh with a small needle as only a few ounces of fat are needed. The fat is centrifuged to compact the cells for the most uniform augmentation, and injected into the face to fill grooves and lines, increase fullness, and restore youthful and attractive contours. Because the fat is injected in tiny parcels through a fine needle, the edges of the added fat can be feathered to blend beautifully into the surrounding tissue contour. The surrounding blood supply keeps the fat alive and it becomes a living part of the facial tissues. The augmented areas look and feel perfectly natural because it is your own living tissue. The majority of the fat injected is maintained permanently in most patients. Fat transfer is ideal for augmentation of all facial areas, and it is an excellent alternative to a facelift in patients with only moderate skin folds and laxity. It works well to help fill acne scars, and it can be combined with liposuction of the neck to develop an ideal jaw-neck line. Recovery is rapid, and most patients are able to resume normal activities within a few days. The tiny injection sites become invisible within a few days.

By injecting very small groups of fat cells in multiple layers, we can create very even, natural contours. Each fat cell is surrounded by tissue which holds it in place and prevents movement. Facial fillers are an alternative treatment option if only a small area of the face needs to be filled. For more dramatic volume restoration, a fat transfer will likely be recommended. Visit with us today to determine if you’re an ideal candidate for fat transfer.