Fat Transfer

Conveniently located to serve the areas of New York, NY

Fat Transfer New York, NY

Facial fat transfer, also known as autologous fat grafting, is a procedure that uses your body’s own fat to restore facial volume and enhance contours. By transferring fat from areas like the abdomen or thighs to facial regions with volume loss, this technique offers a natural solution for facial rejuvenation.

What Is Facial Fat Transfer?

This procedure involves harvesting fat from donor sites through liposuction, purifying it, and injecting it into targeted facial areas. It addresses signs of aging such as hollow cheeks, sunken temples, and deep nasolabial folds, while also improving skin texture and elasticity. 

Benefits of Facial Fat Transfer

  • Natural Enhancement: Using your own fat reduces the risk of allergic reactions and ensures seamless integration with existing tissues.
  • Potential for Long-Lasting Results: Once the transferred fat establishes a blood supply, the effects can be enduring, minimizing the need for repeat treatments.
  • Improved Skin Quality: The stem cells in the transferred fat can enhance skin texture, tone, and elasticity.

Ideal Candidates

Individuals experiencing facial volume loss due to aging, weight changes, or genetics may benefit from facial fat transfer. Ideal candidates are in good health, have sufficient donor fat, and prefer a natural alternative to synthetic fillers. A consultation with Dr. Jennifer Levine will determine if this procedure aligns with your goals.

The Procedure

  1. Consultation: During your fat transfer consultation, Dr. Levine will assess your cosmetic objectives and evaluate your suitability for facial fat transfer.
  2. Fat Harvesting: Under local anesthesia, fat is gently extracted from donor areas using liposuction techniques.
  3. Purification: The harvested fat is refined to isolate viable cells, ensuring optimal results.
  4. Injection: Dr. Levine strategically injects the purified fat into targeted facial areas to achieve the desired enhancement.

Recovery and Results

Following the procedure, patients may experience mild swelling and bruising in both donor and treatment areas, typically subsiding within one to two weeks. Adherence to post-operative care instructions, such as maintaining head elevation and avoiding strenuous activities, is essential for a smooth recovery.

It is essential to recognize that not all transferred fat cells will survive. Clinical studies indicate that approximately 30% to 70% of the injected fat persists long-term. Final results emerge over several months as the grafted fat integrates with existing tissues. In certain instances, additional sessions may be advisable to achieve the desired volume. Maintaining a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle significantly contributes to the longevity of the outcomes.

Why Choose Dr. Jennifer Levine

As a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon in New York City, Dr. Jennifer Levine combines precision with an artistic approach to deliver natural and harmonious results. Her expertise in facial balancing ensures each fat transfer procedure is tailored to your unique anatomy and aesthetic desires, providing personalized care on Manhattan’s Upper East Side.

Corresponding & Complementary Treatments

  • Facelift Surgery: Combining facial fat transfer with a facelift can enhance overall rejuvenation by restoring volume and improving skin texture.
  • Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery): Addressing eyelid concerns alongside facial fat transfer can rejuvenate the eye area for a refreshed appearance.
  • Facial Balancing: Facial fat grafting is often combined with other surgical procedures to enhance harmony between facial features, including rhinoplasty, chin implant, submental liposuction and buccal fat removal.

FAQ

How long do the results last?

As much as 70% of the transferred fat can survive long-term, providing enduring results.

What are the potential risks?

While generally safe, potential risks include infection, uneven results, or fat absorption over time. Choosing an experienced surgeon like Dr. Levine minimizes these risks.

Can fat transfer be used for hand rejuvenation?

Yes, fat transfer can also be used for hand rejuvenation, restoring lost volume and reducing signs of aging such as prominent veins and tendons.

How does it compare to dermal fillers?

Facial fat transfer uses your own tissue for a natural and potentially permanent solution, whereas dermal fillers are synthetic and temporary, requiring periodic maintenance.

Is the procedure painful?

Discomfort is typically minimal, managed with local anesthesia during the procedure and prescribed pain medication afterward.

Can it be combined with other procedures?

Yes, facial fat transfer is often combined with other surgical or non-surgical facial rejuvenation procedures for comprehensive results.

Schedule Your Consultation

To explore how facial fat transfer can enhance your appearance, schedule a consultation here or contact our office at (212) 517-9400 to schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Jennifer Levine.

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