Fat transfer / fat grafting
One of the most visible changes to our face as we age is the change in volume. Typically, our cheeks, temples and under eye area lose volume and become hollow and empty looking making us look older and our faces appear saggy. In the early stages, fillers can be use with good effect to improve volume. However, as the changes become more apparent, other options may be more appropriate such as fat transfer or fat grafting.
About the surgery
Fat transfer involves removing fat from one place via liposuction and reinjecting it into to another area to add volume and improve the shape. One of the additional benefits of fat grafting is the regenerative potential of the fat to improve the quality of the surrounding tissue including the overlying skin. Fat grafting is also very effective for treating certain types of facial asymmetry.
During his training he was awarded a PhD from the University of Edinburgh for his international prize-winning research on stem cells within fat, and their regenerative potential.
His work received multiple prizes from The British Association of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons and the European Association of Plastic Surgeons. Based on his research, Mr West routinely uses fat grafting and fat transfer as part of his approach to total facial rejuvenation to restore youthful volume during facial plastic surgery and facelifts.
Fat transfer can be performed alone or together with other procedures to rejuvenate the face such as facelift, lip lift and blepharoplasty. Fat grafting offers safe, long lasting and natural results for patients looking to restore volume to their faces.
Indication
Volume loss, deep folds, facial asymmetry
Anesthetic
Local
Downtime
1 week
Results
Rebalancing and rejuvenation of tissue by volume restoration and tissue regeneration. Providing a natural and youthful look.
Anatomy
Small volumes of fat are removed by liposuction and then injected to restore volume and rejuvenate tissues.
Duration
1 -2 hours
Exercise
2 weeks
Price
From £1995
WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE DAY
The team will welcome you to the clinic and get you settled and relaxed. We will go through the procedure and discuss the process and sign the consent form. Photographs will be taken before heading to theatre.
Mr West will mark the areas to be treated to ensure the correct placement. Local anaesthetic is injected into the fat donor site which stings for a few seconds. Through small incisions fat will be removed via a small cannula. This fat is then transferred to the areas of the face requiring additional volume. It is injected through very small incisions in multiple thin lines. Skin is usually closed with a small dissolvable suture, and small steristrips (thin plasters) are applied over the scars.
Following surgery you will be transferred to the recovery area and will be looked after by our dedicated recovery team. We will ensure all aftercare is explained and follow up appointments are arranged before letting you leave.
Frequently asked questions
Will all the fat injected stay?
There is some initial swelling that will resolve over the first week. The fat that is injected needs to develop a blood supply to survive and typically 50 – 70% of the injected fat will survive. This fat is then permanent and will behave like other fat in your face. Any significant changes in weight will have an effect, and as you age the fat will naturally reduce in volume
Is one treatment enough?
Not all the fat injected will remain, therefore it is often necessary to have more than one initial treatment. As we naturally age and lose further volume it may be necessary to have top ups.
What are the follow up or aftercare procedures?
Wounds are check usually 7 – 10 days after surgery. A further review appointment is made for 4 – 6 weeks after surgery.
When can I start playing sports again?
Light activity is ok after 1 week. Vigorous exercise should be avoided for at least 2 weeks.
Can fat grafting be used to treat asymmetry?
Yes. Fat grafting can be a really effective treatment for facial asymmetry.
Can fat grafting rejuvenate tissue?
There has been lots of research into the regenerative properties of fat – Mr West was awarded a PhD for his research in to this subject. Certainly, there is good clinical data that shows that fat grafting can help regenerate tissues, and can help soften areas of tight scar tissue.
Related Treatments
Related Conditions
Volume loss / hollow cheeks / hollow temples
Aging face / saggy face / tired face
Eye bags / dark circles / tired eyes
Facial lines / creases / wrinkles
Jowls
Client Results
