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Fat Transfer in Dallas and Allen, TX

(Grafting) as a Permanent Filler

Facial aging changes several aspects of the face: loss of elasticity of the skin, downward migration of fat pads under the skin, and loss of volume of the face through the loss of fat.

Fillers add volume to areas of the face to enhance appearance; however, fillers are not a permanent solution.

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What Is Fat Grafting?

Fillers can be used as a temporary fix for this loss of volume. However, a disadvantage of a synthetic filler is that it is temporary, requiring repeated, expensive treatments.

Adding the patient’s fat to augment deficient areas can enhance their beauty and reverse some of the signs of aging.

The fat can be aspirated (suctioned) from one area—for example, the abdomen—and injected into another area, such as the face. Survival of fat grafts is technique-dependent—but skillfully done fat transfers can be potentially permanent. Fat transfer to the face can be done as a standalone procedure but is often performed in conjunction with facelift surgery and other cosmetic facial procedures.

Additionally, fat transfer to the top of the hand is easy and the only effective method of hand rejuvenation.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Facial Fat Grafting?

You are a good candidate for facial fat grafting if:

  • You have suffered facial volume loss (sunken cheeks, lower eyelid bags, eyelid circles, thin lips)
  • You have available fat in a donor area
  • You have realistic expectations
  • You are in good general health
  • You have sufficient time for recovery

How Is Fat Grafting Performed?

Fat transfer to the face adds volume where time has reduced it—a common sign of aging. New technology has made fat grafts more effective, and fat grafting may be a potentially permanent filler.

Although the use of fat transfer from one area to another is not a new procedure, recently innovated techniques have significantly improved our results with fat grafting.

We are employing water-assisted liposuction to harvest fat for transfer. This is a gentle technique that protects and preserves fat cells. In fact, 90 percent of the fat cells harvested are viable (living). Published studies have documented 70 percent of grafts will take using this method of fat harvest, and the results we are seeing are consistent with these studies.

As with any cosmetic procedure, the best way to determine if fat transfer is right for you is by scheduling a personal consultation with an American Board of Plastic Surgery certified surgeon.

How Long Is the Recovery From a Facial Fat Grafting Procedure?

Your recovery time will depend on how much augmentation is being done and what areas the fat is sourced from. Patients should expect they will need one to two weeks to recover fully.

When Will I See the Results of My Facial Fat Grafting?

You can expect to see bruising and swelling for the first week after the procedure. After which, your face will settle with its new results. You should see your final results within three to four months.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fat Transfer

  • What age can you get facial fat grafting?

    Facial fat grafting can be done at any age to fix acne scarring or correct facial asymmetry. 

    However, facial fat grafting that focuses on filling in hollow areas, such as lip augmentation or cheek augmentation, is typically done when a person is in their 20s or later.

  • What happens during a facial fat grafting consultation?

    During your consultation, Dr. Pollock will examine your features and discuss your goals for the procedure. He will ensure that facial fat grafting can get you the results your want and align your expectations. 

    Dr. Pollock will also examine your current health and medical records to ensure you are a good candidate for the procedure. During the consultation, you will be able to ask any questions you may have about the procedure, including concerns about risks and complications. It will also be when you determine how much augmentation you need. This will allow Dr. Pollock’s team to provide you with an accurate fat grafting cost estimate.

  • What are the risks with facial fat grafting?

    Facial fat grafting is a very safe procedure, and complications are rare. However, there is a risk that a patient may experience:

    • Asymmetry
    • Fat embolism
    • Fatty cysts
    • Hematoma
    • Infection
    • Permanent discoloration from bruising
    • Seroma

  • Is facial fat grafting an outpatient procedure?

    Yes, facial fat grafting is most commonly performed on an outpatient basis. You will need to arrange for someone to pick you up and drive you home after the procedure. It is also suggested that you have someone help you around the house while you recover.

  • How long does the facial fat grafting procedure take?

    The procedure’s length will depend on what areas you are having work done and how much work, but it can generally take up to a few hours.

Financing Information

We are committed to helping you attain your cosmetic goals and are happy to work with you to find a payment method or plan that fits your situation. We offer financing through CareCredit, which provides flexible repayment options.

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Our Locations

Contact information for individual North Dallas Plastic Surgery offices

North Dallas Office

8305 Walnut Hill Ln #210
Dallas, TX 75231

Phone: (214) 363-2575

Directions & Office Hours

Allen, Tx Office

317 N. Central Expressway Suite 100
Allen, Texas 75013

Phone: (214) 509-0270

Directions & Office Hours