Weight loss after facial fat graft?

Question

I'm planning on loosing weight approximately 6-7lbs gradually after 2-3weeks of surgery. Will this weight loss effect my surgery results dramatically? 2-3weeks good enough time before I go on a weight loss and exercise routine?

Michele A. Shermak, MD · Answer

Under 10lb weight loss should not result in significant change in results post facial fat transfer. The fat transferred does adopt its new location, and if there is significant weight gain, the fat will get fuller; and conversely with significant weight loss, you may see some deflation in the facial augmentation. 6-7lb weight change should not present a problem.Good luck in your weight loss!

Houtan Chaboki, MD · Answer

Body weight fluctuation will affect the appearance of one's face. Facial fat grafting has a certain level of unpredictably, especially with dramatic changes in body weight or lifestyle (ex. smoking). Generally, under 10 lbs may not cause a significant change in one's appearance from fat grafting. Ideally, one should have a relatively stable weight before undergoing fat grafting procedures. Best,Dr. Chaboki

Roger Amar, MD · Answer

to lose weight after fat transfer is not really a problem if the graft is located in deeper facial planes you could maintain the benefit.BUT if you gain weight after this episode and if the graft is under the skin in superficial layers you could end with superficial fat lumps difficult to cure

Alyson Wells, MD, FACS · Answer

This can be a bit unpredictable.  The fat which is transferred is responsive to your weight losses and gains.  It may be that you are not genetically programmed to lose an appreciable amount of fat from the face if your weight decreases by only 6-7 pounds.  Or, you may indeed notice loss of volume with only a small weight loss.  Also keep in mind that there is evidence that the grafted fat behaves somewhat like the place it was taken from--the abdomen for instance.  Again, you may not notice a change in the adbomen fatty tissue layer with a small weight loss, but some people do and if this fat is transferred to your face, you could see the loss of "abdominal fat" in this area.  If you were inclined to lose a bit of weight, I would do it prior to your fat grafting.  Best wishes for a beautiful and sustained result!

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Weight loss can potentially cause the shrinking of facial fat grafts just like it would in other areas of the body.  You  might want to lose the weight first. before transfer.

Weight loss after facial fat graft?

Answers (5)