Facial fat injections alone can be performed in the office. They are also commonly performed in conjunction with surgical facelift procedures in the operating room. The fat will be typically harvested from your abdomen or thighs, placed into sterile syringes, and injected into the desired areas in the face. If done in the office, this can be done under local anesthetic.
Anesthesia
Local if done in the office, general or sedation if done in the operating room as part of another procedure.
Length of surgery
1-2 hours
Length of stay
Outpatient (home the same day)
Back to work
2-7 days
Exercise
1-2 weeks
Discomfort
Very mild
Swelling
Mild to moderate
Bruising
Common, generally resolves within 7-10 days
Final result
Much of the effect of fat injections may be seen immediately. However, the appearance will change as swelling resolves. Fat “take” is unpredictable and repeat injections may be necessary.
How long does my fat injection treatment last?
Because fat is a living tissue, injected fat is permanent. Once the fat is injected, there is no way to determine how much of the fat will “take,” but generally the take is quite good and the fat that does take will remain in the injected area permanently. Additional treatments may be necessary if fat take is low or if a patient desires more volume correction after the initial procedure.
Are fat injections safe?
Your own fat (from an area of fat excess on your body) will be harvested and injected into your area(s) of concern. Because it is your very own fat being injected, it will be well tolerated by your body. Of course, every surgical procedure carries some risks, but fat injections are generally very well tolerated and very safe. Your surgeon will discuss specific risks with you during your consultation.
Where can fat be injected?
Fat can be injected almost anywhere on the body where volume correction is desired. Dr. Warner will help you develop a specific plan based on your concerns.
What if I don’t notice enough difference after my fat injection treatment?
Your surgeon will evaluate the results of your fat injection treatment within the first weeks to months following your procedure. If you find that there is not enough improvement, you can always have an additional treatment to supplement your results.
Where will my procedure be performed?
The majority of fat injection treatments can be performed in the office setting, in our state-of-the-art office based procedure rooms. Your comfort will be paramount and if necessary, oral medication may be prescribed to help calm your nerves. Fat injection procedures are universally well tolerated by patients. If you would rather have the procedure performed while you are asleep or under twilight, or if your surgeon feels this should be done, this can be discussed during your consultation.
