Facelift or fat transfer? (Photo)

Fat transfer is mostly done to improve volume and projection in certain areas of the face, like periorbital region; it does not create lifting although it may visually look like a lift. In your case I believe that volume augmentation would be more appropriate than lift. Hope this helps.

The photo was reviewed and shows a young face with some lower-face heaviness and shadowing around the nasolabial and mouth area, but a close front photo cannot determine true skin laxity, cheek support, or neck and jawline anatomy.

Fat transfer can improve volume loss and soften shadows, but it does not reliably lift descended tissue. If the main issue is hollowing or flatness in the cheeks, conservative filler or fat grafting may be enough. If the main issue is jowling, loose skin, or tissue that has actually dropped, a lower facelift or mini facelift is the more direct lifting procedure. Some patients need both, because lifting and volume replacement solve different problems.

At 35, I would be cautious about jumping straight to a facelift unless an exam clearly shows laxity that non-surgical options cannot address. A good evaluation should include front, oblique, and side views, skin quality, facial animation, and whether the concern improves when the cheek is gently repositioned versus when volume is added. If you are uncertain, temporary filler in small amounts can sometimes help simulate the volume component before committing to fat transfer or surgery.

Hello and thank you for the question. The photograph you have provided gives a limited view for evaluation. Generally speaking, from what can be seen, there is minimal to now obvious volume deficiency, although you may have some decent of the malar fat pads and subtle jowling. You may benefit from a deep plan face lift to address these concerns, however more detailed photographs and an in person consultation would be a great benefit to you

I feel fat transfer does not do much actual lifting but rather filling out volumes that have hollowed or fallen lower on the face. Lifting procedures are the best thing to address fallen tissues. In your case, I do think a mini face lift with fat transfer would be a really great option. The prejowl / jowl area as well as the nasolabial and labiomental depressions would best be treated by lifting the tissues and tightening. A conservative fat transfer would then help rejeuvenate the skin and add nice volume to your cheek bone, nasolabial areas. If you volumize fallen tissues (ie no lift), the result typically feels heavy and low and can even worsen initial concerns.

Fat transfer would be a great option for you. As we age, we lose facial volume and as a result maintaining this will ultimately maintain a youthful appearance. You could always try the fat transfer first and look at a deep plane mini facelift down the road.

Thank you for your query. I would recommend a facial fat transfer which, when done well, will give you a lifted and rejuvenated look. The facelift can wait for several years. Please find an experienced board certified Plastic surgeon who can examine you and help you with all your concerns. All the best!