Is micro liposuction the best option for correcting a facial fat transfer? (photo)

Question

I had a neck lift, lower facelift, and facial fat injections into my face 10 weeks ago. One cheek is still noticeable larger than the other. How long until all swelling subsides? If this is not swelling but instead over volume from fat transfer then what are my options for correction?

Warren Schutte, MD · Answer

Our bodies heal microscopically for 12 months after surgery. I would strongly advise waiting 6-12 months before judging final results or embarking on corrective surgeries. At 10 weeks po, your body is still inflamed, reabsorbing fat and healing.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

We are doing fat transfer to the face, breasts and other areas for over 25 years. When it comes to facial fat transfer it is best to wait for at least 3-6 months to see final outcome. Swelling in early postoperative course (several weeks after surgery) can create significant confusion. Only if significant asymmetry is present (hematoma, seroma) earlier intervention may be justified. I would recommend waiting at least for 2-3 months before considering any intervention; stay in closed contact with your surgeon. Good luck.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You are still early in the healing process and need to wait. You could try gentle massage in that area. In a couple more months, if too much fat is present, then liposuction with micro cannula is safest for the face.

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

It's not uncommon for facial fat transfer to have some asymmetry in the weeks following the procedure, especially with the healing process still ongoing. Since you’re 10 weeks post-op, here’s what you might consider:
1. Swelling vs. Over-Volume from Fat Transfer:
•	Swelling: The majority of swelling should subside within the first few months. At 10 weeks, you may still experience minor swelling that could affect symmetry. However, it's possible that the swelling could linger a little longer depending on individual healing rates.
•	Over-Volume from Fat Transfer: If the swelling has largely subsided and you're noticing that one cheek remains noticeably larger than the other, it’s possible that there is an excess of fat in that area. The body absorbs some of the transferred fat over time, but it’s not always completely predictable.
2. Correction Options:
•	Micro Liposuction: If the issue is over-volume (i.e., too much fat transferred), micro liposuction could be an option. This procedure involves removing a small amount of fat using a tiny cannula. It's less invasive than traditional liposuction, with minimal downtime and a quicker recovery. Micro liposuction can help refine the contours of the face and address any excess volume.
•	Fat Dissolving Injections: Some patients also opt for lipolysis injections, like Kybella, to break down and dissolve unwanted fat. While this approach is typically more common in areas like the chin or jawline, it could be an option for minor adjustments in facial fat.
•	Fat Massage: If there’s a lot of residual swelling and you’re not sure if the volume is an issue yet, your surgeon might recommend gentle massage or lymphatic drainage techniques to encourage fluid reduction and better distribution.
3. Timeline for Full Healing:
•	Swelling from any surgical procedure, especially fat transfer, can take up to 6 months to fully resolve, though most noticeable swelling should subside in the first few months.
•	You may also experience some gradual volume redistribution over the next several months, where the fat settles in and becomes more even over time.
I recommend consulting with your surgeon or a certified board-certified plastic surgeon to assess whether this is swelling or over-volume, and if micro liposuction or other treatments are appropriate for you. They will be able to offer recommendations and provide the best options based on your unique situation.

Is micro liposuction the best option for correcting a facial fat transfer? (photo)

Answers (4)

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