A recent study indicates that most plastic surgeons in the United States are using the fat grafting procedure to enhance the overall effects of facelifts.
During the research, a random sample of the American Society of Plastic Surgeon members were surveyed about their use of fat grafting during facelifts. More than 300 surgeons responded to the survey.
Researchers found that approximately 85 percent of the surgeons report using fat grafting. Additionally, more than 75 percent of the respondents indicated that they started performing fat grafting to the face within the last decade.
Fat transfer involves transferring a small amount of fat from one part of the body to another. Generally, fat is harvested from areas such as the thighs or abdomen using liposuction. The fat is then processed and injected into the facial area to create more volume.
The research indicated that fat was most often collected from the belly area, with tiny amounts — usually no more than a few teaspoons — injected into the facial area. The cheek area was most often treated because this area often appears sunken through the aging process. Ultimately, the fat grafting procedure can produce a more rounded, plumper appearance to the face.
Researchers also found that fat grafting was used below the lower eyelids, and the area between the nose and the corners of the mouth.
Results of the study stated that while some of the injected fat will be reabsorbed by the body, surgeons surveyed believed that the majority of the fat was still in place up to a year after the procedure. Additionally, follow up treatments were done to refine the results and overall, the surgeons indicated that their patients were very satisfied with the results.
Dr. Wright and his staff at the Laser Lipo and Vein Center can answer any questions you may have about fat transfer or any other cosmetic surgery procedure you may be interested in. Please call us today to set up a complimentary consultation.
References:
Sinno, Sammy M.D.; Mehta, Karan B.S.; Reavey, Patrick L. M.D.; Simmons, Christopher B.A.; Stuzin, James M. M.D.
July 2015Â –Â Volume 136Â –Â Issue 1
pp: 1-212,1e-133e  http://journals.lww.com/plasreconsurg/pages/currenttoc.aspx
