Dermal graft lip augmentation. Is just the dermis used, or just the fat?

Question

Hello, Some questions concerning a dermal graft for upper lip: 1) When a dermal graft is harvested with the skin & fat; is just the dermis used or is just the fat used? 2) Do blood vessels form around the dermal graft? 3) Since topical caffeine can shrink fat cells..If coffee is consumed... will caffeine dissolve the fat (assuming fat is left on the dermis)? Thank you, Marsha

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi Marsha,

Here are the answers to your questions:

In a dermal graft procedure for the upper lip, usually only the dermis layer of the harvested skin is used. This is because the dermis layer contains collagen and elastin fibers which provide structural support to the skin.
Yes, blood vessels will eventually form around the dermal graft as the body's natural healing response.
While caffeine has been shown to have a lipolytic (fat-burning) effect, it is unlikely to dissolve fat cells in a dermal graft. The amount of caffeine consumed through drinking coffee is also not likely to be enough to have a significant impact on the fat cells in the graft.
It's important to note that the use of caffeine as a fat loss agent is still controversial and its effectiveness for this purpose is still not well-established. Additionally, any potential effects of caffeine consumption on a surgical procedure should be discussed with your surgeon.

I hope this information helps!

Dermal graft lip augmentation. Is just the dermis used, or just the fat?

Answers (1)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Lip Surgery

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

Dermal graft lip augmentation. Is just the dermis used, or just the fat?

Answers (1)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Lip Surgery

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