Many patients experience a loss of youthful facial fullness over time. Autologous Fat Grafting is a highly effective method for restoring lost volume. At Kirn Plastic Surgery & Skin Care Center in Lexington, KY, we specialize in helping patients restore facial volume and achieve a more youthful appearance using their natural tissue.
What is Facial Fat Grafting?
Over time, many patients experience a loss of youthful facial fullness. Autologous Fat Grafting is a highly effective method for restoring lost volume. This procedure involves harvesting fat from an available body area, processing it, and re-injecting it into volume-deficient regions of the face. Commonly treated areas include lines around the mouth, smile, and upper cheek areas.
Fat grafting can also address contour irregularities and depressed scars, including certain acne scars. This technique can also be applied to other body areas for volume restoration.
Facial Fat Grafting Benefits
Fat grafting has numerous advantages. Since the fat comes from your body, there is no risk of allergic reactions. It provides a smooth, natural appearance and can be used in nearly any body area. Grafted fat is known for longevity and can last for years, if not indefinitely.Â
However, it is important to note that the aging process will continue, and facial volume loss that occurs before fat grafting will persist afterward. Consequently, some patients may benefit from periodic fat injections over time.
Considerations
Despite its advantages, fat grafting does have some drawbacks. As a natural filler, it does not always behave as predictably as manufactured fillers. When fat is transferred, a portion will survive in the new location while another portion will dissolve. The percentage of fat that survives versus dissolves can vary significantly from patient to patient, potentially necessitating multiple treatments to achieve the desired contour.
Candidates for Facial Fat Grafting
Facial Fat Grafting in Lexington, KY is suitable for different types of patients. Ideal candidates typically include:
- Those looking to restore facial volume lost due to aging, weight loss, or genetics.
- Individuals interested in achieving fuller cheeks, plumper lips, or smoothing wrinkles and fine lines.
- People who prefer a natural face rejuvenation method using their body fat.
- Candidates for this technique must have sufficient fat deposits in other areas of their body to harvest, ensuring effective fat transfer to the face.
Dr. Kirn and Dr. Al Bayati will conduct a thorough consultation to determine if you are a suitable candidate for this transformative procedure.
What to Expect During the Facial Fat Grafting Procedure
During your Facial Fat Grafting appointment, we will harvest fat from a designated area of your body, such as the abdomen or thighs. We gently extract the fat through liposuction, ensuring minimal discomfort while obtaining the volume needed for your facial enhancement.
Once the fat is harvested, it is processed to eliminate impurities and prepared for injection. We then carefully inject the purified fat into target areas of the face, restoring volume and contour. The procedure is generally performed under local anesthesia with sedation for a more comfortable experience.
Recovery and Aftercare
Post-procedure, you can expect some swelling and bruising, which are common effects of facial fat grafting. Most patients find that swelling subsides within a few days, with full results visible within a few weeks. We will provide specific aftercare instructions, which typically include:
- Applying ice to minimize swelling.
- Avoiding strenuous activities for several days.
- Keeping your head elevated during the first few nights.
- Staying moisturized and using recommended post-operative skin care products.
- Following other guidelines for optimal results and a smooth recovery.
Cost of Facial Fat Grafting
The cost of Facial Fat Grafting varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and the specific areas being treated. At Kirn Plastic Surgery & Skin Care Center, we believe in transparent pricing and will provide a detailed breakdown during your consultation.
Why Choose Kirn Plastic Surgery & Skin Care Center
Choosing the best plastic surgeon for fat grafting in KY means entrusting your care to experienced professionals. At Kirn Plastic Surgery, we pride ourselves on our commitment to exceptional patient education and satisfaction. Dr. David S. Kirn and Dr. Ahmed Al Bayati use the latest techniques and technology to ensure your non-surgical facial volume enhancement is safe, effective, and customized to your needs.
Schedule Your Appointment
Fat grafting is commonly performed in the operating room during other facial surgeries. Dr. Kirn and Dr. Al Bayati routinely perform this procedure under local anesthesia in the office procedure room. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward restoring your youthful, vibrant look!
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Dr. Kirn and Dr. Al Bayati are Plastic Surgeons devoted to advanced techniques in Cosmetic Surgery of the Face, Breast, and Body.
Facial Fat Grafting
Frequently Asked Questions
Is fat grafting permanent?
When fat cells are transferred (grafted) from one part of the body to another, some live in the new location, but others fade away. Those cells that live remain in their new location for years. Over time, natural aging processes will gradually lose fat cells in certain areas, so repeat fat grafting or other procedures may be needed to restore fullness.
How many fat grafting sessions will I need?
Fat grafting is best thought of as a process rather than a single treatment. We perform fat grafting in the office and the operating room. Generally, one to three treatment sessions are required to achieve optimal results, but this varies from patient to patient. Sessions are usually spaced 3 to 6 months apart.
How is fat grafting performed in the office?
Fat grafting in the office is very similar to having a dental procedure. A local anesthetic is used where the fat is taken from and where it will be placed. There is usually minimal discomfort, but patients typically feel pressure. There is usually swelling and/or bruising for a few days after the procedure.
How long does fat grafting last?
The longevity of fat transfer results can vary. Still, many patients enjoy improvements for several years as some injected fat cells establish a blood supply and integrate into the existing tissue.
Is the procedure painful?
Most patients report minimal discomfort, thanks to localized anesthesia during the procedure. You may experience slight soreness afterward, which is generally well managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
Can fat grafting be combined with other procedures?
Yes! Facial Fat Grafting can be effectively combined with other face procedures and treatments, such as facelifts, lip augmentation, or injectable fillers for enhanced outcomes.
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Meet Dr. David Kirn
Dr. David Kirn is an American Board of Plastic Surgery Certified Plastic Surgeon who is devoted to advanced techniques in Cosmetic Surgery of the Face, Breast, and Body. In private practice since 1998, he is located in a state-of-the-art facility which includes a full service skin care center. The practice is focused on personalized patient care and attention to detail. Where possible, Dr. Kirn utilizes minimally invasive procedures.
Meet Dr. Ahmed Al Bayati
Having completed his training in plastic surgery and serving as Chief Resident at the University of Kentucky, Dr. Al Bayati brings a wealth of expertise and dedication to his practice. His commitment to advancing patient care and achieving exceptional outcomes reflects his unwavering passion for plastic surgery.
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