How can a fat graft to face and lips be removed or reversed?

Question

I had fat graft to nasolabial areas and lips 15 months ago and it is uneven and terrible. I called my plastic surgeon this morning and asked about reversing it and he said it would be very difficult. I had steroid injections and I got a dent in my face. I asked about micro liposuction and he sounded very hesitant about this procedure. Why are plastic surgeons performing fat grafting to faces if they can't reverse or correct the procedure they perform? What can be done and am angry and frustrated?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Removal of fat is very difficult after it has been injected.  However, there are options depending on where it was implanted.  Noninvasive procedures such as radiofrequency and resurfacing lasers do help some.  Injectable steroids and/or 5-FU can be helpful.  If needed, microliposuction can be performed and the results are typically very useful.  I suggest coming in for a consultation or Skyping with us, we should be able to help.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Robert M. Freund, MD · Answer

Removal of unwanted fat can be performed with microcannulas that are designed for the removal of very small amounts of fat in an atraumatic fashion. I utilize cannulas that have a special lubricious coating so that the trauma is minimized.

Scott Shadfar, MD · Answer

Hello Demetra C. , Thank you for your question.   I am sorry you are going through this. You raise a great question, because unfortunately there are physicians who have not had the appropriate training in fat grafting who continue to perform this permanent procedure. Without examining you, physically feeling the tissue, assessing your desired outcome, taking a full medical history, and discussing the pros and cons of any treatments it is difficult to be comprehensive.There are a few things that can be done for the asymmetry.  You could consider plumping up the lesser side, or consider microliposuction to the area that is too full. I would recommend you seek out a board certified facial plastic surgeon to assist you and evaluate you for possible correction.Good luck , Dr. Shadfar

Shahin Javaheri, MD · Answer

Removal of fat following grafting is certainly possible, but it does depend on the location placed.  This will require "localized" liposuction of the grafted fat.  Fat grafting is a technical procedure and requires skill as well as experience.

Michael Law, MD · Answer

Fat grating has become very popular. Because of this popularity, doctors with limited training, no expertise and often improper techniques are creating vert very unfavorable results. A Face overfilled with fat, or another filler can be improvised significantly. There are variables that will determine the best course of action. If you can find a plastic surgeon with many many photos that are appareling to you, and treating at top tier medical schools and university medical centers, you may elect to have a consultation. the doctor will need to see both before photos, after photos , and ideally an operative report.Something can be done and you can be helped. Take your time selecting the right doctor for you

How can a fat graft to face and lips be removed or reversed?

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