Why is fat transfer surgery for me?
As we start to age, the volume in our faces begins to decrease, causing hollowness and wrinkles that make us appear older. Fat transfer surgery can help to restore the more youthful look of an ageing face and also treat those patients who have lost volume in their face due to weight loss, stress or age. Here are ICCM (International Centre Cosmetic Medicine) in Sydney, we have perfected this technique, ensuring a desirable end result.
How does it work?
Fat transfer surgery begins with removing fat from a donor section of the body, usually from areas such as love handles (hips), outer thighs and the belly. About 25-30 mls of fat will be suitable for the first procedure and a top-up if necessary. Do not worry about any holes or visible indents in your body though; as the fat is removed in a thin layer around the size of your hand. Once complete about 3-10 mls are injected into the areas that are being treated
Who should consider a fat transfer?
If you have sunken or creased facial areas and desire more permanent correction than is given with temporary fillers, then this procedure might be ideal for you. It is also suitable for those wishing to improve their body contour, fill any depressions or irregularities, revise scars and rejuvenate their hands. It can also be used to help make breast augmentation look a little more natural if necessary.
Because the fat is used from your own body, there is less of a chance of any allergic reactions. Fat transfer is a non-invasive method and alternative to reach facial rejuvenation with natural and long last effects.
Do bear in mind that fat tissue does need to be prepared which is time-consuming and costs more than dermal fillers.
If you are considering fat transfer, it is also vital that you have donor sites where the fat can be taken from. Any circulation problems will hinder this process.
How long is recovery time?
This is variable dependant on the amount of fat transferred, and on the person. You can expect swelling for at least 24 hours after the procedure though some can take up to 7 days or more for the swelling to subside. There may also be some bruising on both the face and the donor site but no bandaging is needed. The area will feel hard and tender for a few days but will usually go down within the next 1-2 weeks.
Patients are advised to sleep on their backs for the first few days to help the fat settle evenly.
How long do the results last for?
New surgical techniques mean that there are longer lasting results of fat transfer.
It is important to consider where the fat is being transferred to as well as what technique is being used.
Applied to the cheek or lower face area, the volume can last up to 3 years or longer in some instances. There may be a need for a second application in the following months as some initial volume can be lost.
It is imperative to know that smoking has the potential to reduce the longevity of a fat transfer.
Fat transfer is a safe and long-lasting procedure that yields natural-looking results.
Can fat be transferred to other areas?
The most common area for fat transfer is the face but it is possible to transfer fat to most areas of the body to improve the shape and even out any irregularities. Other common areas to receive fat transfers are the hands and elbows, both of which can very easily give away your age. Fat transfers help to smooth out and soften any wrinkles and veins.
With ICCM our team of trained professionals are able to use the newest techniques to give you the best results possible. If you are considering fat transfer treatment then feel free to contact us today. and book a consultation and take that first step to getting a younger looking you.
