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Facial Lipofilling
Improving facial volume and skin quality through the filling and regenerative potential of fat graft
ˈfeɪʃ(ə)l ˈlɪpəʊˈfɪlɪŋ
As we age, changes to the facial skeleton, superficial and deep fat pads and strength of ligaments leads to a sunken hollowed out appearance among other stigmata of facial ageing. The rate and extent of these changes may lead to an appearance that is older than your actual age. Regardless, patients often dislike the tired and grumpy appearance that they convey.
Lipofilling is a technique that uses your own fat which is harvested from either your tummy or thighs. The goal is to create a refreshed rejuvenated appearance by re establishing plumpness to specific parts of your face. This can be done in isolation or as an adjunct to other procedures such as a facelift.
There are several points to discuss with you, such as the pros and cons of using your own fat compared to off the shelf fillers and the expected outcomes and longevity of lipofilling. Overall it is a technique that is safe and widely used in various areas of plastic surgery beyond facial rejuvenation, such as the paediatric population with craniofacial anomalies, traumatic deformities as well as for scarred tissues secondary to burns and irradiation therapy.
Fat grafting involves manually harvesting fat, usually from the tummy, by means of a blunt tip cannula attached to a syringe. The fat is then prepared by having it spun in a centrifuge which allows the elimination of oil, water and blood. The resultant fat is then manually grafted or injected into the face as needed, by means of a fine blunt tip cannula attached to a small syringe. Common facial sites of injection include the cheeks, lips and chin.
Losing some of the fat that has been grafted is a normal expectation following facial lipofilling. The result achieved in the operating room will not usually be the final outcome following graft take. As a result, more than one session may be needed to reach an ideal end point.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is fat graft used for?
The indications for the use of fat grafting are vast, and the benefits are multifold, our understanding of which continues to evolve. In the facial aesthetic setting, fat graft can be used as a natural filler to restore volume that is lost as part of the ageing process. In this setting, skin quality and any underlying scars may also improve.
Is it done routinely with a facelift?
No. It is case specific and this will be established at the time of consultation depending on your facial anatomical findings and goals.
Where is fat taken from?
Depending on your body habitus, fat is usually harvested from either the inner thighs or the abdomen. This is known as the donor site.
Will the donor site get the same benefits as liposuction?
No. The amount of fat required, especially in the setting of facial aesthetics is generally small. The harvesting will not be extensive enough to result in the same benefits seen with liposuction performed in liposculpting procedures.
What type of anaesthesia do I require and how long will I be in hospital for?
General anaesthetic. This is performed as day surgery.
How long does the surgery take?
It depends on the extent of zones involved and whether it is done as part of more extensive facial aesthetic surgery.
How long will I take to recover?
Any bruising or swelling will need at least 2 weeks to become less noticeable to others. Most types of strenuous activity should be avoided for 8 weeks.
RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS
What are the potential risks and complications? Access a detailed surgical procedure information sheet by the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons here.
