How Long Does Fat Transfer for Lip Ehancement Last?

Question

Ricardo L. Rodriguez, MD · Answer

I love doing fat grafts.
Buttocks, thighs, breasts, scars, cheeks, temples, you name it. I have even done fat grafts on feet!
But there is something about the lips...
I just don't have consistent results with fat grafts on the lips. Perhaps it is because the lips move almost constantly and the fat micrografts are never stable enough for blood vessels to grow into them.
 
It is always worth a try because you get some take, but it is the only case of fat grafting where I tell people they may need a second injection.

Michael M. Omidi, MD, FACS · Answer

Fat transfer is a viable option for lip enhancement.  Fat has risks such as clumping, uneven resorption and asymmetry.   We have a technique to break down the fat into a very smooth paste, making it less viscous and more even.  This allows more accurate placement of the fat with less clumping. In theory, it should increase the amount of fat staying behind, however, that needs to be determined by studies. We usually recommend fillers initially if you haven't tried it already.  Fat should stay permanently after the initial resorption. Best of luck. Dr. Michael OmidiAn in-person exam with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the best way to assess your needs and provide true medical advice.

Randolph Capone, MD, FACS (in memoriam) · Answer

Although no study has conclusively answered this question, it appears that autologous fat transfer (from your own body) yields long lasting lip augmentation, and 4-5 years of enhancement is not unusual. There is a good chance that a small percentage (perhaps 15-20%) might actually survive permanently. 
Fat is certainly longer lasting than any hyaluronic acid product (eg. Juvederm) and safer than more permanent injectable products that should never be injected into the lips (eg. Radiesse, Silicone). It also feels completely normal and when performed correctly is devoid of any lumps or bumps. Fat yields great results. 
Even so, I first suggest an in-office lip augmentation with Restylane to my patients before jumping to fat. I want to make sure that they like the appearance and feel of their lips with more volume. Then, only if they like their enhanced lips, do we proceed with fat transfer about 8-10 months later (after the Restylane is gone). 
Other lip procedures include the lip lift and the permanent lip implant, so make sure you talk with your doctor about ALL your options for lip enhancement and decide which is best for you!

How Long Does Fat Transfer for Lip Ehancement Last?

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How Long Does Fat Transfer for Lip Ehancement Last?

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