Why am I still swollen seven months after fat grafting?

Question

I am a younger male (30s) who had fat grafting done to my mid-face area (cheeks, under eyes) due to premature loss of tissue in this area. The swelling from the operation has been pretty persistent. When when I wake up in the morning there is a ridge below my eye of the hardness in my cheek, and during the day I feel the fluid changing in this area as gravity pulls it down. There is a tenderness or ache across the area where the surgery was done. Should I be concerned?

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

There are areas of the body that have a very poor lymphatic drainage and lower eyelid/upper cheek is one of them. Fluids (swelling) have a tendency to stay there after surgery (fat grafting, lower eyelid surgery) for prolonged period of time what makes both patient and surgeon worrisome and unhappy. It is very individual how long swelling due to fat grafts may last; from several weeks to several months. Gentle massage from nose towards ears, diet (low spices, low salt, no MSG, no smoking, low alcohol consumption) is part of postoperative recommendation for our patient after fat grafting. Patience and good luck.

Walton Montegut, MD · Answer

Swelling is the main post op problem that occurs.  It is the main residual symptom that is different for every patient.  Each of us heals in a different way and we all swell uniquely.  I inform my patients that most of their swelling is gone within 3 to 4 weeks.  They continue to heal over the next few months due to complete healing occurring over 6 to 12 months.  You should consult your doctor about your swelling and the lumps that you are feeling under the skin.  Usually the fat is smooth and layered into your face and blends in with your tissue.  At this point, lymphatic massage may help smooth any lumps out and help with swelling.  The eye area is the thinnest area of the face and fat can be visible in this area if not placed in correctly.  technically, it is one of the more challenging areas of the face to place fat.  Many physicians are not comfortable treating this area.  I routinely place fat in this area on all of my facelift patients for the hollowing they have in this area.  I also have removed fat that has been incorrectly placed in this area as well.  Therefore, it can be removed from this are if it is a problem.  It is always not easy, but can be done.  I would consult with your doctor and he can judge your progress.  Good luck.

Keith Denkler, MD · Answer

Residual swelling months later pertains to continued healing.Your body is healing and repairing the grafts producing swelling and edema.Lymphatic massage would be a method you could use to help mobilize the swelling.  It may take a few more months to fully settle down.If you have had fillers in the past, hyaluronidase could be tried also.Dr. Keith Denkler
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Why am I still swollen seven months after fat grafting?

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Why am I still swollen seven months after fat grafting?

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Everything you need to know about Facelift Revision

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