Returning Volume and Youth to the Face: Structural Fat Grafting

Your skin loses elasticity and volume as you age, resulting in a tired and aged appearance. Many people turn to nonsurgical treatments like Botox and fillers, but these only provide temporary solutions.

woman with a defined jawline



Structural fat grafting is a longer lasting and natural way to restore volume to the face. In this article we will explore the advantages of structural fat grafting so you can understand how it works and what to anticipate.


What Is Structural Fat Grafting?



Structural fat grafting is a cosmetic treatment that involves moving fat from one body area to another. The surgeon removes extra fat from problem areas like the hips or thighs and injects it into the face. The procedure can restore the face's decreased volume brought on by aging, weight loss, or other circumstances.


Benefits of Structural Fat Grafting



The fact that it is natural is one of its main advantages. The body can reject synthetic fillers or react adversely, but fat grafting uses the patient's tissue. Complication risk is significantly lower as a result. The procedure also offers a long-lasting resolution, with outcomes that may last several years.


How Does Structural Fat Grafting Work?



The initial step in the procedure is to harvest fat from the donor site using liposuction. The patient is usually able to return home the same day after this procedure, performed under local anesthetic.



The doctor injects the purified collected fat into the face with a tiny needle after purifying it to remove contaminants. To achieve a natural-looking outcome, they meticulously place the fat. Depending on the treatment extent, the process could take 30 minutes to several hours.


Recovery and Results



After the procedure, patients can expect some swelling and bruising, which typically subsides within a week. They should avoid strenuous activities for several weeks and follow the aftercare instructions provided by their surgeon.



The results can be instantly visible. However, the final results will become more apparent as the swelling subsides. Over time, the grafted fat will integrate with the surrounding tissue, providing a natural and long-lasting effect.


Who Is a Good Candidate?



Ideal candidates for the procedure are individuals with lost facial volume due to aging, weight loss, or other factors. They should be in good health and have realistic expectations about the procedure. Additionally, candidates should have enough excess fat in another area of the body for the graft.


Choosing the Right Surgeon



Choosing a qualified and experienced surgeon is essential when considering structural fat grafting. Choose a board-certified surgeon with experience conducting this kind of procedure. Request to see before-and-after photos of the clinic's former clients. Reading reviews is also beneficial to understanding other patients' experiences.


Conclusion



Structural fat grafting is a safe and natural way to restore volume to the face. It provides long-lasting results that can enhance a patient's appearance and self-confidence. With proper aftercare and a qualified surgeon, patients can achieve a natural-looking result that lasts several years.


Is structural fat grafting on your radar? To review your options and decide if this operation is best for you, make an appointment with a licensed surgeon.




For more on structural fat grafting, contact Aesthetic Surgical Associates. Our office is in Metairie, Louisiana. Call 504-226-8200 to schedule an appointment today.