Is it safe to have a fat transfer to my frown lines 1 month after Botox treatment to that area?

Question

I have very deep frown lines that are very strong even when I relax my forehead. I tried Botox for the first time 2 weeks ago, but with little effect. It wasn't a strong dose, so I could go higher, but not a fan of Botox. As I'm scheduled for a breast fat transfer in 2 weeks anyway, I could add a fat transfer to the frown lines for an additional charge. I'm wondering whether there are any risks involved having a fat transfer to that region so soon after botox treatment.

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

I do not recommend fat transfer to frown lines, as the result isn’t usually natural or satisfactory. Botox is the best treatment for this area, but it needs to be administered by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon who is also an expert Botox injector to ensure the best possible result. Some patients that have permanent frown lines may also benefit from small amounts of dermal filler, which tends to be more predictable than fat transfer. Again, experience is paramount for an optimal outcome. Good luck to you!

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

The best treatment for frown lines is without a question Botox. For people who have developed deep permanent lines adding fillers can be helpful.  Fat transfer is good for diffuse overall volume like breast and butt. It is not nearly as good for adding very precise volumes in small areas.  Fillers on the other hand do a spectacular job of this.  For providers willing to split syringes it's possible to have this treated with 1/10 of a cc. Which in our practice would cost around $65.  At that price fillers considering how well they work is probably a better treatment than fat transfer which in my opinion will most likely leave you disappointed.  Botox for both treatment and prevention is the way to go. Try increasing the dose or change providers and see if you can get a better results.  Best, Mats Hagstrom MD

Robert T. Buchanan, MD (retired) · Answer

Botox reduces or eliminates the muscle function that causes the wrinkles. Once the wrinkle is established, Botox cannot eliminate it. For that, you need to fill the wrinkle or a peel or laser. Some wrinkles can be treated with fat under them, elevating them. Others require a filler if the dermis needs to be split to elevate it. Forehead lines usually do not respond to fat. You then need to be using tretinoin (Retin-A) to convert some of the hyaluronic acid filler to collagen to permanently eliminate the lines. Before agreeing to anything, discuss it carefully with your surgeon.

Is it safe to have a fat transfer to my frown lines 1 month after Botox treatment to that area?

Answers (3)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Facial Fat Transfer

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

Is it safe to have a fat transfer to my frown lines 1 month after Botox treatment to that area?

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Facial Fat Transfer

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