Fat Transfer
WHAT IS FAT TRANSFER?
Fat transfer, or fat grafting, is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure during which fat is removed from one area of the body and transferred to targeted areas of the face to restore volume loss. Fat transfer is commonly used to fill sunken cheeks and temples, hollow under eyes, or thin lips. Because the fat grafted is the patient’s own tissue, it has the potential to last longer than injectable fillers, with minimal risk of an allergic reaction or rejection. In addition, because the fat that is harvested for transfer is very high in stem cells, it can be used to soften fine lines and improve the skin’s overall tone and texture. The goal of fat transfer is rarely large changes in volume, but subtle and targeted enhancement of volume depleted areas that can lead to a more polished and rejuvenated appearance.
HOW IS FAT TRANSFER PERFORMED?
Fat transfer is performed first by removing fat via liposuction from either the abdomen, inner or outer thighs, or love handles, which all have a very high concentration of stem cells. Because Dr. Sowder primarily does fat transfer along with other facial rejuvenation procedures such as facelift, it is often performed under IV sedation in our fully accredited office-based surgical suite. For certain patients, it can be performed on its own using local anesthesia. Once harvested, the fat is resized to micro-fat and then carefully injected using very small cannulas into the areas of volume loss. The micro-fat can further be sized down into nano-fat, which has a near liquid consistency. Nano-fat can be injected using a very small needle into fine lines around the mouth and eyes, helping to soften them and improve the skin tone and texture.
IS FAT TRANSFER RIGHT FOR ME?
During your initial consultation, Dr. Sowder will spend an hour discussing your concerns and aesthetic goals to determine which procedure or combination of procedures are the best for you. Should fat transfer be an option, Dr. Sowder will describe the process in detail and answer any questions you have to help you determine if it is the right option to attain your goals.