Procedure for Fat Grafting
The procedure of fat grafting for sunken facial areas typically involves the following steps:
- Consultation: The first step is to consult with a qualified Plastic Surgeon to determine if fat grafting is the right option for you. During the consultation, the expert will evaluate your medical history, examine the targeted areas, and discuss your goals and expectations.
- Anesthesia: Fat grafting can be performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of the procedure and the patient's preference.
- Harvesting fat: The Plastic Surgeon typically begins by harvesting fat from a donor site using liposuction techniques, such as tumescent liposuction or power-assisted liposuction. Common donor sites include the abdomen, thighs, back, or hips.
- Processing fat: The harvested fat is then processed in centrifugation and purified to remove excess fluids and impurities.
- Injection of fat: The collected fat is then injected into the targeted areas of the face using a fine-gauge cannula. The Plastic Surgeon injects small amounts of fat gradually while massaging the area simultaneously to ensure even distribution and to prevent formation of lumps or irregularities.
- Recovery: After the procedure, the patient will typically need to rest for a few days and avoid strenuous activity for several weeks. Some swelling, bruising, and discomfort are normal and can be managed with pain medication and ice packs.
- Results: The final results of fat grafting can take several months to fully develop, as the injected fat settles and integrates into the surrounding tissues. The results can be long-lasting, although some patients may require additional treatments over time.
What to Expect?
Fat grafting can be an effective option for restoring fullness in sunken facial areas. As we age, we naturally lose fat in certain areas of the face, which can lead to a sunken, gaunt appearance. Fat grafting can be used to add volume to these areas thus creating a more youthful and vibrant appearance.
One can expect the following cosmetic benefits from the procedure:
- Fuller face with well-defined contours
- Reduced creases and fine lines
- Rejuvenated and radiant look
- Natural-looking results
Another benefit of fat grafting is that since it uses the patient's own tissue, it is a largely safe procedure and can result in a more natural-looking and long-lasting outcome compared to other injectable fillers.
Recovery Phase
After fat grafting for sunken facial features, it is common to experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the treated areas. You may also have some temporary numbness or tingling as the nerves in the area recover. Here are some things to expect during the recovery period:
- Swelling: Swelling is normal after fat grafting, and it may take several weeks to fully subside. You can help reduce swelling by keeping your head elevated and applying ice packs to the treated areas.
- Bruising: Bruising is also common, particularly around the injection sites. The bruising typically resolves within a few weeks.
- Discomfort: You may experience some discomfort or soreness in the treated areas, particularly during the first few days after the procedure. Your surgeon may prescribe pain medication to help manage this.
- Activity restrictions: You will need to avoid strenuous activity and exercise for several weeks after the procedure to allow the treated areas to heal. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on what activities you can and cannot do during the recovery period.
- Final results: The final results of fat grafting for sunken facial features may take several months to fully develop. During this time, the injected fat will integrate into the surrounding tissues and settle into its final position.
Most of the temporary side effects can be avoided by consulting a skilled and a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.
What’s Next?
If you are interested in knowing more about fat grafting in Dubai, feel free to contact the Al Shunnar patient care team. Our coordinators will readily schedule a personal consultation session for you with one of our Board Certified Plastic Surgeons.
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