Is thin skin (almost no fat) a good structure for injecting fat?

Question

After radiofrequency i am left with almost no fat in my cheeks. Injecting fat into my skin seems the only logical solution but it almost feels like placing too many books on very weak/unstable shelves. It "collapses", itmay cause necrosis of fat and underlying tissue. Not the best analogy but you know what i mean

William Groff, DO · Answer

One of the benefits of a fat graft is that the transplanted fat actually incorporates itself into your skin and resvascularizes there, which will strengthen and plump your skin. So, actually, it’s quite good for thin skin to have a fat graft! One caveat is that some of the fat will die. In fact, I actually think most people get a better result when volumizing their skin using a dermal filler such as Voluma, or a collagen-stimulating dermal filler such as Sculptra. The only way to be sure of which is best for you is to consult a board-certified dermatologist.

Leo McCafferty, MD · Answer

Contour irregularities in the cheek following radiofrequency can be successfully treated with fat grafting.  I would suggest you see a board-certified plastic surgeon for an analysis.

Catherine Winslow, MD · Answer

Hello! Fat grafting is typically done more deeply in the midface and should not be visible even with thin skin. That being said, it is still a risk, and more importantly resorption, asymmetry and longevity are all variable and unpredictable. I typically start with volumizing fillers such as Voluma for midface improvements, or for significant loss of volume, implants are sometimes an option for permanent correction. Good luck!

Michele A. Shermak, MD · Answer

Fat transfers are great for restoring volume to the face + the Fat Graft has a stem cell effect to improve skin quality. They can be done under local anesthesia or under general anesthesia.You can find a board certified plastic surgeon at plasticsurgery.org to find an excellent provider for you.Best of luck!

Ravi Dahiya, MD · Answer

I don't think thin skin presents any reason to not get good results with fat grafting. The face as a whole has an excellent blood supply which is what is needed to support grafted fat cells. Of course thin skin does mean the depth at which is placed is critical. If placed too superficially, the fat can look irregular so it must be placed a bit deeper. I also advise my patients that they will likely need multiple treatments (2-3) to get complete and long lasting results. Best of luck

Is thin skin (almost no fat) a good structure for injecting fat?

Answers (7)