Injectables » Fat Transfer

As we age, one reason for developing sagging in the face is a loss of the supporting fat. Using your own fat and injecting it into the face can help reverse this. Fat transfer can also be used to augment lips, cheeks and hollows, thus it is a natural alternative to using foreign fillers.

The Procedure
A donor area, from where the fat is harvested, is chosen and a diluted local anaesthetic solution is injected to numb the area. Like any liposuction there is the slight risk of bruising, infection and change of skin texture. The harvested fat is separated into small syringes ready for injection and the site to be filled is also injected with a local anaesthetic. Fine threads of fat are placed to augment the area. Additional fat may be stored in a fridge for future use.

Recovery
Fat injections are often associated with significant swelling, especially when fat has been injected into the lips. Other areas of the face usually are not as bad, but still allow for one week of significant swelling. Full reduction of the swelling may take over two weeks.

Results
There is an expectation that 1/3 to 1/2 of the injected fat will survive long term. Some patients may retain more or less than these amounts. The lips and close to the eyes are areas that are more likely to experience lumpiness. Occasionally small touch ups may be required and often more than one treatment is performed to obtain the desired results.

Cost
Fat transfer does not attract a medicare rebate. The staff of AFPLS will be able to give you an accurate quote for Fat Transfer.

NB: Aspirin, Nurofen, Vitamin E and blood thinning medications significantly increase bruising and swelling, and must not be taken for at least 2 weeks prior and 1 week following surgery.