How successful are fat injections to the nasolabial folds of the face? Within the last two years, I have had Restylane, Perlane and Juvederm injected into the face. They worked well, but of course, don't last. A doctor suggested I try this more permanent type of injection. What is your feeling about this procedure? Is it similar to the gel fillers only with some fat removed from my body first? What is the down time and the average cost?
Autologous fat injections are a permanent natural alternative to facial fillers. They can have similar complications like irregularities, absorption, infection, etc.. I usually tell patients that they probably will require additional fat injection treatment because fat injections are not a perfect science, and they do not take a 100%. Therefore, additional treatments are often required to get the full desired effect.
Linda,
Fat grafting is a nice alternative to fillers. It can achieve the same results as the fillers, but has the potential to last much longer and, possibly, permanently. Make sure that you go to someone with extensive experience in fat grafting, since you want to get it done correctly the first time. Basically, the fat is harvested from your abdomen or thigh with a mini-lipousuction technique. The fat is then processed (we use a centrifuge in my office) to isolate or concentrate the fat cells. The fat is then put into syringes and injected in a similar way as the off-the-shelf fillers. You should expect a bit more temporary bruising and swelling with the fat grafting than with the fillers. This is due to the fact that the fat should be injected into multiple levels and directions for a smooth, even look. Additionally, this helps increase the chance of the fat lasting since it will be distributed closer to the micro blood supply of the skin and subcutaneous tissue. If they are suggesting that you have fat grafting around your eyes, question them extensively about their experience and ask to see several before and after photos of their patients. Injecting fat in the lips and nasolabial crease is fairly routine. However, injections around the eyes can lead to big problems in inexperienced hands. The fat grafting procedure usually costs a bit more than the fillers, but it has the potential to last much longer. So, your cost savings in the long run is great. In my office, the fat grafting procedures generally run between $2000 and $4000 depending on the areas grafted (nasolabial crease, lips, cheeks, periorbital, pre-jowel, etc). Good luck with yoru procedure.
David Shafer, MD
As the inventor of the Viafill Fat Transfer system, I have a large body of experience with fat transfer. However, I still love Juvederm and Radiesse.
Each filler has its purpose.
Juvederm is great for fine lines and wrinkles. It is also great for lips and nasolabial folds when small volumes of fill are necessary. The downside is the short length of action.
Radiesse is great for filling deeper folds in areas like the nasolabial when small volumes are necessary. It also has the benefit of lasting longer than Juvederm.
Fat is great for large volumes and in areas that need to filldeeper areas. I like it for;
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