Looking older because of hollowing of the temples or sunken cheeks? Want a more ample bosom and derriere? Fat grafting may be the answer. Fat grafting is used to address volume loss that may come with aging or to enhance what you already have.
1. Fat grafts are the ideal filler.
The fat that is successfully transferred is permanent. You do not have to get repeat injections every year. It has the most natural feel and appearance. The fat will not be rejected by the body because it is your own fat.
2. Fat grafts are obtained by liposuction.
Not only do you get the benefit of adding volume where you need it, you can remove the excess fat from where you do not want it! By rearranging your fat, you can drastically transform your body.
3. Fat grafts do more than correct volume.
Fat grafting has been shown to improve the texture and quality of the skin by increasing the thickness of the skin and adding more collagen. The fat can also decrease pigmentation of the overlying skin.
4. Fat grafting has been performed all over the body.
Fat can be utilized wherever you need extra volume. The most common areas for fat grafting are the face (temples, cheeks, smiles lines, jawline, lips, chin) and buttocks (the Brazilian buttlift). However, fat has been utilized in the breasts globally to augment the total volume or more targeted to accentuate the cleavage. Fat has been used in the hands to decrease the visibility of the tendons and joints that come with aging.
5. Fat grafts can be unpredictable.
Despite its many advantages, there is approximately 50% loss of the fat graft between initial injection and final healing. Fortunately, fat is readily available, and fat grafting can be repeated. The surviving fat will behave like normal fat anywhere else on your body. It can fluctuate with weight gain and loss.
Interested in learning more about fat grafting? Book your consultation with Dr. Bitar today.
George Bitar, MD, FACS is an award-winning, board-certified cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgeon, the Founder and Medical Director of Bitar Cosmetic Surgery Institute in Virginia. He specializes in the latest surgical and minimally invasive techniques to scar management and reduction. Dr. Bitar is involved in groundbreaking research and education in plastic surgery and has authored numerous articles, abstracts, and chapters.
