Facial Fat Grafting in Phoenix
Also serving Scottsdale
Have you noticed your face looks thinner or hollower as you get older? This is a common cosmetic issue that occurs among both men and women. Over time, the fat cells in your face shrink, leading to a sunken or worn-out facial appearance.
If you miss the round, full and youthful face you once had, micro fat grafting, or fat injections, may be the solution. Dr. Ali Ghafouri of Arizona Oculoplastic Specialists has seen an increase in men and women interested in turning back the clock with micro fat grafting. Here, he explains everything you need to know about the procedure.
Understanding Micro Fat Grafting
Fat grafting, or fat transfer, involves removing unwanted fat from one body area (e.g., abdomen, hips, thighs, buttocks), purifying it and re-injecting it into another body area to boost volume and fullness. Micro fat grafting is a technique that uses tiny droplets of fat to add volume to strategic areas of the body for a smoother and more natural-looking result. This precise technique is highly effective and useful for treating smaller areas, including the cheeks, chin and under-eye area. Fine lines and wrinkles can also be filled in using micro fat grafting.
The Benefits of Micro Fat Grafting
At first, it may sound a little strange to inject fat back into your body. But micro fat grafting has proven to be a highly effective solution for flat or sunken body areas. Patients can expect the following benefits:
Long-lasting results. In contrast to the results of dermal filler injections, which typically last no more than two years and often last just months (depending on the specific product), results with fat grafting can last for many years.
No allergic reaction. Unlike dermal fillers and facial implants, micro fat grafting uses the patient’s own body fat. The fat is naturally accepted by the body and cannot cause an allergic reaction (a concern with synthetic materials like implants and some fillers).
Shorter recovery time. Micro fat grafting involves injections in targeted areas as well as small incisions in the area(s) where the donor fat is taken from. This minimally invasive approach allows for faster healing than with surgical facial rejuvenation procedures.
Improved body contours. The donor area will appear slightly slimmer following micro fat grafting.
Natural-looking results. Because micro fat grafting uses only natural fat, the results look and feel completely natural. It gives a three dimensional lift and not a “pulled” look. It restores natural youthful fullness.
Rich in stem cells. Fat has the one of the highest concentration of stem cells in the body. Stem cells can differentiate into different cell types depending where they are placed. Stem cells have the ability to renew themselves and being extensively used in regenerative medicine. When fat is injected into skin, it improves quality and elasticity of the skin.
Procedure Details
Micro fat grafting is typically performed under local anesthesia. During the procedure Dr. Ghafouri will create tiny incisions in the area from which the donor fat will be taken. He will insert a small cannula or tube through the incisions and suction the fat out. The harvested fat is purified so only fat cells remain. Once the fat is ready, Dr. Ghafouri will use a thin needle to inject micro-droplets of fat into strategic points of the face. He will inject the fat into multiple layers of the face, a technique that creates a more natural look. It also maximizes the survival rate of the cells and thus leads to longer-lasting results.
Can I Combine Micro Fat Grafting with Other Procedures?
Micro fat grafting can be performed in conjunction with other facial rejuvenation procedures to produce more comprehensive results. Procedures like facelift, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) and cheek (mid face) lift primarily focus on elevating sagging skin and tissue to a more youthful position. Combining micro fat grafting with these procedures is an effective way to restore noticeably fuller and more youthful natural contours. When paired with eyelid surgery, micro fat grafting can be used in the area below the lower eyelids, brow and temples to correct hollowness around the eyes. It can also be used to fill in nasolabial folds between the nose and the corners of the mouth. It also can be combined with laser skin rejuvenation procedures such as CO2 skin resurfacing.
Learn More from Our Trusted Facial Oculoplastic Surgeon
Beautiful and long-lasting results with micro grafting require precision, skill and a deep understanding of the facial structure. Dr. Ghafouri is a highly sought out micro fat grafting expert thanks to his training and experience. He has an appreciation for balance and symmetry, which are vital components of beautiful and natural-looking facial contours. Dr. Ghafouri works closely with each patient to design a treatment plan that achieves the desired outcome.
If you wish to restore fuller, rounder or simply more attractive and youthful facial contours, schedule a consultation with our trusted Scottsdale facial oculoplastic surgeon. Contact Arizona Oculoplastic Specialists by calling or filling out our online contact form.
