Fat Grafting

Facial fat grafting, also called “natural fat transfer,” is an advanced aesthetic procedure in which a patient’s fat is transferred to restore or add volume in various facial areas. The process involves harvesting fat cells from a body area with an excess, purifying the fat cells, and then precisely injecting the cells to add subtle, natural volume.

When is facial fat grafting used?

Dr. Brace at Guelph Facial Plastics performs custom fat grafting to improve volume loss in the face, often to restore volume between the lower eyelids and cheeks. The results of this treatment last a lifetime, as the fat cells become viable, integrating into the tissue to resolve under-eye hollows. Facial fat grafting can be used to resolve several aesthetic concerns, including:

Volume loss

As we age, our face may lose volume, resulting in a sunken or hollowed appearance in cheeks, temples, or beneath the eyes.

Facial asymmetry

Patients with facial asymmetry left from a surgical procedure may benefit from fat grafting to restore sunken areas.

Scarring

Fat grafting can improve the appearance of some facial scars by filling depressions.

What is the treatment?

Facial fat grafting is performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia with intravenous sedation or under general anesthesia. The process involves three steps:

Harvesting: Fat is gently extracted from areas with excess fat, such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks, with a specialized liposuction technique.
Purification: The harvested fat is purified to remove any impurities.
Injection: The purified fat is carefully injected into the targeted areas of the face using small, specialized needles. Dr. Brace meticulously injects the cells for an even distribution.

What is the recovery time after facial fat grafting?

After facial fat grafting, patients may experience mild swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which typically subside within a week or two. Most patients can resume normal daily activities within a few days, though strenuous exercise and certain activities must be avoided for a few weeks to allow the transferred fat cells to become fully integrated into the tissues. The donor site may be swollen and bruised, which typically subsides within two to three weeks. Achieving the desired volume may require more than one visit. These factors can be discussed in detail during your initial consultation with Dr. Brace, whether in person or virtually.

Why choose us?

Fat grafting demands high precision; each graft must be carefully placed to ensure maximum cell survival. It is crucial to work with a double board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Brace, who is highly experienced and committed to achieving the best possible results. As a member of both the American and the Canadian Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Dr. Brace is a recognized expert in facial procedures. He combines his aesthetic artistry and technical skill to create natural and harmonious results. His dedication to patient care extends to teaching future surgeons at McMaster University and providing top-quality facial plastic and reconstructive services. Choosing Dr. Brace ensures that you are in the hands of an accomplished specialist committed to achieving your facial enhancement goals with the highest level of care and expertise.

Benefits of fat grafting for under-eye hollows

Under-eye hollows can make individuals appear tired, aged, or less vibrant. Fat grafting offers a natural and effective solution to address this concern, providing numerous benefits for patients seeking to rejuvenate the under-eye area:

Natural results: Using the patient’s own fat cells ensures that the results are natural and harmonious with the surrounding facial features. Fat grafting allows for precise sculpting and contouring, delivering a refreshed and youthful appearance without an overfilled or artificial look.
Long-lasting outcome: Fat grafting for under-eye hollows offers long-lasting results compared to temporary dermal fillers. Once the transferred fat establishes a blood supply in the new location, it becomes integrated into the facial tissues for long-term volume enhancement.
Reduced risk of an allergic reaction: Since fat grafting uses the patient’s own tissue, there is virtually no risk of allergic reactions or adverse reactions, as is rare but possible with synthetic fillers.
Combination treatments for rejuvenation: Fat grafting can be combined with other facial procedures, such as a facelift or brow lift, for more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

Under-eye hollows can significantly impact one’s facial appearance, making them appear older and tired. With fat grafting, patients can experience a revitalized and refreshed under-eye area, restoring a youthful and vibrant look. If you are considering fat grafting for under-eye hollows or other facial concerns, schedule a consultation with Dr. Brace to discuss your options and develop a customized treatment plan that aligns with your unique needs and aesthetic desires.

Facial fat grafting is a transformative procedure that can restore youthful volume and contours to your face, delivering natural-looking and long-lasting results. If you are interested in facial fat grafting, contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Brace and explore how this innovative procedure could be the ideal treatment for you.