Are the skin improvements from facial fat transfer permanent?

Question

A lot of doctors and patients have reported skin improvements after fat transfer, with the hypothesis being that stem cells in adipose tissue are responsible. I know fat transfer is not permanent, but in your experience are the skin improvements permanent? I.e. does the thin skin genuinely thicken? I am aware that there is little scientific evidence on this so far, but I am interested in your anecdotes.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

It would be very hard to measure improvement of skin quality; it is mostly based on individual observation by a patient and/or physician. Until we are able to measure and rate improvement, it will be impossible to give you good answer. However, most of us who were doing fat grafts for number of years will agree that effect on the skin is long lasting.

Rodger Shortt, FRCSC · Answer

Fat which survives the process of the transfer is generally stable.  It will fluctuate with your weight.  What you have at 3 months is likely what you will have long term.Consider the whatever the benefits like moving the clock back.  Time will continue but from an earlier starting point.Dr Rodger ShorttOakville Plastic Surgeon,Director of Cosmetic Surgery Training &Assistant Clinical Professor,McMaster University

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Fat transfer results are typically permanent unless you lose weight dramatically.  The skin improvements are great from the fat stem cells and I combine PRP to the mix to get even better improvement.  However, the aging process will continue and eventually you will need other cosmetic treatments for improvements and to maintain.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Gustavo A. Diaz, MD · Answer

Most physician that do a considerable amount of fat grafting agree that there is improvement on the skin after fat grafting. I also believe that the effects are long lasting. As we age the skin and the fat grafted area will continue to age.Hoppe this helps,Dr. Gus Diaz

Michael M. Omidi, MD, FACS · Answer

There are many theories of the benefits of stem cells. Some (very reputable) doctors have hypothesized that the fat when transferred is not living and it is the stem cells and growth factors that stimulate new fat cells in the tissues.  This is yet to be proven, but a very exciting field in medical research. An in-person exam with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the best way to assess your needs and provide true medical advice. Best of luck. Dr. Michael Omidi

John A. Millard, MD, FACS · Answer

Your e correct that there is little scientific evidence to answer your question, there is a fairly large consensus that fat grafting in the face, especially when done immediately underneath the skin does improve skin quality!

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Fat transfer is permanent for most areas of the body. I think that the lips are the toughest for it to last in. The skin changes are usually permanent, but as you age so will the skin.

Roger Bassin, MD · Answer

First of all, your statement that fat transfer is not permanent is incorrect. My experience using fat derived from Aqualipo yields consistently viable fat with predictable long term results. I call this procedure Naturalfill. There have definitely been reports that radiated skin does indeed soften up after fat transfer, and other anecdotal claims that skin regains more youthful characteristics, but as of yet, there is no clear scientific evidence.

Are the skin improvements from facial fat transfer permanent?

Answers (8)

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