Patients interested in traditional injectable fillers to improve the signs of facial aging now have a new option for a longer-lasting approach. Oklahoma City cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Tim Love offers small volume micro fat grafting technique using a patient’s own fat cells, which may serve as a remarkable resource of facial fillers in place of or in addition to man-made injectable fillers (ie: Prevelle, Juvederm, Radiesse). And, in the process of harvesting their own fat, the patient will also benefit from liposuction of other areas of unwanted fat.

Facial areas which benefit from this small volume micro fat grafting procedure include the malar, lower eyelids, nasolabial fold, marionette lines, lips and forehead. Each patient must first be consulted to determine the approach best for them. This new technique is often performed in conjunction with a facelift and/or eyelid surgery.

The use of autologous (a person’s own) tissue to enhance reconstructive and cosmetic surgery results dates back to 1895. Recent advances in fat transfer technology have made fat grafting more reliable and useful. Initial diagnosis studies of fat grafting in breast surgery confirm safe and efficacious outcomes.

Advantages of fat transfer for facial enhancement include:

• the use of the patient’s own tissue instead of a short-lived injectable filler
• aesthetic improvements by liposuction harvesting from areas of unwanted or excessive fat (abdomen, hips & flanks are common donor sites)

Limitations of fat transfer technique include:

• inadequate availability of fat volumes
• greater expense compared to traditional procedures

As with any cosmetic or reconstructive surgical procedure, consultation with a surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery helps to ensure thorough evaluation and implementation of the most beneficial techniques available.

Dr. Tim Love offers cosmetic and plastic surgery patients Fat Grafting in Oklahoma City. Consult with him today for more information on fat grafting and facial rejuvenation.