Can massaging the skin when applying moisturizer damage fat grafts?

Question

I had facial fat transfer 3 months age to restore lost volume due to age (I am 49) and weight loss. I'm very pleased with my results but I will need augmentation, which is scheduled for late May. I read after the first transfer that massaging the transfer site can reduce the amount of fat that survives. Can massaging the skin when applying moisturizers and the like damage the grafts? Do I need to be super gentle when applying cream? Thanks.

Lu-Jean Feng, MD · Answer

Massaging the face when applying moisturizers should not damage fat grafts placed underneath. It may help with lymphatic drainage. By the time that your face is no longer tender to touch, it will be perfectly safe to apply moisturizer.

Andrew Kornstein, MD, FACS · Answer

Deep pressure massage can effect fat graft survival not applicaton of moisturizers---fat grafts are pressure sensitive.Hope this helps

Can massaging the skin when applying moisturizer damage fat grafts?

Answers (2)