How to preserve fat after fat grafting on face?

Question

What is the best way to preserve fat cells after full face transfer. My face is often tense ( I think a lot). Will that affect the fat transfer?

Bao L. Phan, MD · Answer

In the immediate post- operative period (first few weeks), the fat should not be disturbed or manipulated too vigorously through either manual manipulation or by placing direct pressure on it such as with laying on it.  This could move the fat around from where it was placed and also disrupt the neovascularization that needs to take place to keep the fat cells alive.  The direct pressure (from laying on it) or increased interstitial pressure (from excessive swelling or excessive volume injected) can also inhibit the diffusion of oxygen and nutrients in this critical period.  As such head elevation to minimize the swelling and to keep the fat where it was placed is important.  There is no evidence that any injections of any other autologous or artificial products will increase the longevity of the transferred fat.  It has more to do with good surgical technique.  Best wishes.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

do PRP and sculptra injections and avoid any over mainpulation or heating to the area.  there are not many studies that show any significant issue that can be prevented to keep fat after injection.  Best, Dr. Emer.

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

There is not much you can do to affect the longevity or survival of the fat.  Thinking a lot definitely won't harm it.  The survival is due to the technique used to harvest and inject, and the amount injected.  Also varies depending on where the fat came from on the body.  If your face feels tight that is completely normal

R. Laurence Berkowitz, MD · Answer

There are so many variables affecting outcomes.  Much of the advice comes from experience and very little scientific evidence. Short term try to minimize facial motion especially the lips, avoid pressure and while cooling may help, ice may damage these fragile grafts. Long term we often hear from patients that the fat "didn't last" but keep in mind that the aging process is ongoing and relentless, so that the fat that is being lost may be the native fat not the grafted fat.

Julio Clavijo-Alvarez, MD, MPH, FACS · Answer

Thanks for sharing your question.

The survival of fat transfers is related to the process of
the fat during the transfer. If your fat transfer has been done already, the
survival will be realated to the ratio of fat and tissue were the fat was
injected. The more fat, the less survival once you overcome a 1 to 1 ratio.

Wishing you the best in your journey

How to preserve fat after fat grafting on face?

Answers (7)

Answer: Preserving fat grafts

Answer: Preserving fat grafts

Answer: How to preserve fat after a transfer to the face

Answer: How to preserve fat after a transfer to the face

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Everything you need to know about Facial Fat Transfer

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How to preserve fat after fat grafting on face?

Answers (7)

Answer: Preserving fat grafts

Answer: Preserving fat grafts

Answer: How to preserve fat after a transfer to the face

Answer: How to preserve fat after a transfer to the face

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Facial Fat Transfer

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.