Utilizing Your Body’s Own Tissue

Do you wish for more volume in certain areas of your body? Autologous fat grafting, also called a fat transfer, takes fatty tissue from one area of your body and uses it to volumize another. Facial fat transfers are incredibly common, especially in the tear ducts, temple hollows, lips, cheeks, and chin. The seasoned board-certified plastic surgeons at The Piazza Center in Austin, Texas, are well-versed in the specific techniques required for a successful facial fat transfer.

What Happens During A Fat Transfer?

A fat transfer typically occurs during another surgical procedure, such as a facelift. Fat is harvested via gentle liposuction from another area of the body with excess fatty tissue, which for most patients is usually the thighs, buttocks, and abdomen. Next, the fat is purified. To do this, the fat is inserted into a centrifuge that filters out oil, blood, and other unwanted matter, isolating the fat.

Then the fat is then sterilized and ready to be transferred. Your surgeon will use a syringe to inject exact quantities of fat in specific areas. While this process may appear simple, facial fat transfers are only performed by a handful of doctors because if done incorrectly, the transplanted fat cells die. Only the most skilled surgeons can do it right.

Should I Consider A Facial Fat Transfer?

The only way to know for sure if a facial fat transfer is right for you is to have a one-on-one consultation with a Piazza Center board-certified surgeon. During your consultation, your physician will listen attentively as you share your cosmetic goals and hesitations. 

Next, an examination of your face and a thorough review of your medical history will take place. Your surgeon will then explain how facial fat transfers work, and answer any questions you have. If they deem fat grafting to be a good option for you, your surgeon will equip you with everything you need to make an informed choice.

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What Are Common Reasons To Pursue A Fat Transfer?

Fat transfers utilize your own body tissue, and as such, are extremely safe. There is a very low risk of allergic reaction, and results look and feel very naturalistic. Most people are good candidates for facial fat transfers. If you identify with any of the below, a facial fat transfer might be good for you.

  • Aversion to synthetic substances
  • Have lost facial volume due over time
  • Wish for plumper cheeks or lips without fillers
  • Have hollows in the temple area, mid-face, or under the eyes
  • Uninterested in facial implants
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What Is The Recovery Process?

Dr. Piazza and his hand-selected team at the Piazza Center provide exceptional care at every stage, but really stand apart from the competition when it comes to the recovery period. Our surgeons dedicate much more time during the healing process, and schedule multiple follow-ups once healing is complete to make sure each patient is overjoyed with their results. 
Since facial fat grafting usually occurs in conjunction with other procedures, the recovery process varies. In general, swelling and bruising are to be expected.

What Are Results Like?

Our skilled plastic surgeons work like artists when it comes to facial fat grafting, meticulously sculpting and contouring the transferred tissue to create a youthful, contoured look that blends in seamlessly with the rest of the face. Unlike synthetic dermal fillers, facial fat transfers are permanent, though it is common to need a touch-up to achieve the desired look. The Piazza Center Surgeons often hear patients express hesitation about receiving fillers because they fear looking ‘puffy’ or ‘done.’ When performed by an experienced plastic surgeon who has years of experience and a deep knowledge of facial anatomy, fillers look natural. Many practitioners without the necessary training simply cannot produce comparable results. 

Non-Surgical Volume Restoration

Some patients may prefer non-surgical options to revitalize their facial features while avoiding the risks and recovery time associated with surgery. Non-surgical options for volume restoration include injectable fillers such as hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers and collagen stimulators, which can provide similar results to fat transfer without the need for surgery. A consultation with Dr. Piazza can help you determine the best non-surgical options for your individual needs and goals.

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A Team Motivated By Quality Patient Experiences

At the Piazza Center in Austin, Texas, our team has two priorities: safety and ensuring an impeccable patient experience. We are intentional about every aspect of care, from our smooth intake process, to our beautiful offices, to dedicating more time to patients than the typical practice. 

We also study the outcomes of every procedure, no matter how small. Collecting and analyzing this information allows us to consistently deliver excellence, and offers us the opportunity to constantly evolve. To see if a facial fat transfer can help you recapture the facial volume of your youth, contact us today to schedule a consultation. 

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A Patient for Life

When you get plastic surgery at The Piazza Center, we make a long-term commitment to your recovery, your beauty, and your well-being.

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