Fat Transfers

Women everywhere have said for decades that, “when doctors figure out how to remove fat from one place and move it somewhere else, I’ll be happy.”  Now, with fat transfers, it’s not just a possibility; it’s a reality!

Here at the Laser and Skin Surgery Center of Indiana, fat transfers are performed for patients looking for facial rejuvenation and anti-aging without the use of facial fillers or facial plastic surgery.  The process involves extracting fat from other parts of the body through liposuction and infusing it into the face to combat the signs of aging. Fat is usually taken from the abdominal area or thighs, and many patients use the procedure to fill out their cheeks, forehead, nose or jawline.

Pros and Cons of Fat Transfers for Facial Rejuvenation

Fat transfers are safe and effective. Because they use the patient’s own fat reserves, there is no risk of an allergic reaction. Compared to similar treatments, fat transfers provide longer results. There are few negative side effects. Swelling and redness are possible, and patients should also be aware that the fat may simply be reabsorbed at the injection site. Additionally, the procedure does require cosmetic surgery in the form of liposuction to extract the fat from another part of the body. While liposuction is considered a safe procedure, it is still a surgery that carries risks. Patients must decide with the help of a board-certified dermatologic surgeon if fat transfers are a good treatment option or if other options for facial rejuvenation should be considered instead.

Why Choose the Laser and Skin Surgery Center of Indiana for Fat Transfers?

The Laser and Skin Surgery Center of Indiana is fully staffed with trained skin care professionals under the supervision and guidance of board-certified dermatologic surgeon Dr. C.W. Hanke.  Dr. Hanke is not only an expert in facial rejuvenation and liposuction, he has pioneered many advances in dermatologic care through clinical studies, lectures, and numerous publications.  He is the top dermatologist in Indiana and renowned internationally as a leader in dermatologic surgery.

Common Questions About Fat Transfers

To get the full scoop on any cosmetic procedure, it’s important to schedule a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist. However, we’ve assembled some helpful FAQs about fat transfers to help you get started while you decide what type of facial rejuvenation procedure is right for you.

How does fat transfer for facial rejuvenation work?

Fat transfers use your own fat reserves to fill out sagging skin on the face. Fat is extracted from your hips, thighs or abdominal area and then injected into targeted facial areas using a fine gauge needle to replenish lost facial volume due to extreme weight loss or the natural effects of aging.

How is a fat transfer for facial rejuvenation administered?

The fat sample is extracted via liposuction from the donor site by a dermatologic surgeon. After it is processed, the fat is injected into the targeted areas of the face by a dermatologist using a fine gauge needle.

Who is a candidate for a fat transfer for facial rejuvenation?

Anyone interested in a natural way to look younger and who has excess fat in other parts of their bodies can benefit from this procedure.  Our medical staff will help determine if you are a good candidate for this treatment during a consultation.

Is a fat transfer for facial rejuvenation painful?  Is anesthesia used?

At the Laser and Skin Surgery Center of Indiana, we use a method of liposuction called Tumescent Liposuction, which allows the patient to remain awake during the procedure through the use of a local anesthetic.  Patients report no pain during the procedure, but will be sore afterward.  During the facial rejuvenation procedure, we can also provide you with a local anesthetic to numb the areas being treated.  After treatment, we will provide you with instructions for pain management during your recovery period.

How long does a fat transfer for facial rejuvenation take?

The procedure usually lasts from one to two hours. This procedure takes longer than other cosmetic injectable treatments because the fat must first be extracted and processed before it is administered.

When will I see results after a fat transfer for facial rejuvenation?

Most patients experience swelling and bruising for up to two weeks after the procedure. Once these side effects have subsided, you should be able to see the results of your fat transfer.

How long results last after fat transfers?

Results can last up to 10 years. However, the results will be affected by the overall condition of the skin and environmental factors. Some people see the fat get absorbed nearly immediately, and there is no way to predict when this will occur.

Is there any downtime after a fat transfer treatment?

Most patients are able to resume regular activities within two weeks. It may be wise to avoid rigorous exercise or saunas for up to six weeks.

What is the cost of a fat transfer for facial rejuvenation?

Fat transfers will range in price based on the scope of the procedure. Exact prices should be discussed during your consultation. Financing options may also be available.

Who should not get a fat transfer for facial rejuvenation?

Fat transfers are well tolerated by most people. However, not everyone is a good candidate for liposuction or may have adverse reactions to anesthesia used.  In these cases, our team will discuss your options for safe, effective treatment.

What are the potential complications of fat transfers?

Nerve damage, asymmetry and infection are all possible but occur rarely. You may also have fluid collection at the injection site, and the donor site may experience a change in contour.  However, these complications can be avoided when seeing a board-certified dermatologic surgeon who is trained and licensed to perform these types of procedures.

Where can I find fat transfer before and after photos?

Thanks to the Internet, there are many online sources that offer candid fat transfer before and after photos. More results can be provided by our dermatology providers here at the Laser and Skin Surgery Center of Indiana.

Where can I get more information about fat transfers?

You can learn more by coming in for your own consultation with our Indianapolis dermatology team. In the meantime, however, you can find out more about fat transfers from the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.