Volume loss to the face is a natural part of the aging process or can happen when an individual experiences significant weight loss. The two options for treating volume loss are injectable fillers and fat transfer. Filler can be done in the office as a “walk-in, walk-out” treatment with no downtime and immediate results. Fat transfer is a surgical procedure that involves removing fat from one are of the body, usually the abdomen, hips or thighs, and placing it in the face where volume is needed. There is a recovery period of a few days to one week. Fat transfer is a permanent long term solution, where fillers are temporary.
Tag: injectables
Look More Youthful with Fat Transfer or Fillers
As the characteristics of the face and skin change throughout the aging process, there becomes the desire to restore ones appearance to a more youthful look. In areas of the face such as the temples, eyes, and cheeks there can be noticeable volume loss resulting in a hollow skeletal appearance. Using fat from your own body or injectable fillers is the optimal solution for addressing this issue.
Who is a Candidate for Injectable Fillers?
Patients experiencing volume loss in their face are typically good candidates for injectable fillers. In some cases, a patient may have such significant hollowing that fat transfer may be a better option due to the amount of volume needed. Voluma® by Allergan is the first FDA-approved filler for volume replacement, while other fillers such as Radiesse, Restylane, etc. are used to minimize fine lines and wrinkles. Injectable fillers are not permanent, so an ongoing commitment is needed to maintain optimal results.
Fat Transfer Compared to Fillers?
Injectable fillers will typically only last 6 months to 2 years depending on the type used, however fat harvested from the body and transplanted into the face is essentially permanent. Not all of the fat cells will survive the procedure, however the ones that do survive are programmed to think they are still located in their previous location. When fat is taken from the abdomen or flanks, these cells are prone to resisting shrinkage, which means that will remain the case when transferred to the face. Unlike facial fat, which is susceptible to depletion.
