Hello, Should I do a fat transfer to the face first or deep plane facelift first?

Question

I once had a consult to determine whether to do a fat transfer to the face or get a traditional facelift and the Dr said I probably only needed to restore volume in my face. I later had a separate consult for a "deep plane" face lift and the Dr. said I was a good candidate. I would like to do both at some point but am trying to figure out which would be better to do first? Or are they done at the same time?

Tim Neavin, MD · Answer

Every facelift I perform I inject fat, but not every fat transfer I perform involves lifting skin.  Without a photo, I cannot tell you what I would do.  But if you can avoid a face lift, you should.

Thomas A. Mustoe, MD, FACS · Answer

A deep plane facelift lifts the midface including cheeks restoring volume to the upper midface which usually makes fat transfer to the upper cheeks unnecessary.   In probably 90% of facelifts I do some fat transfer around the mouth where ther is consistent volume loss with age.   In thin patients the lower cheeks can benefit of the patient looks gaunt.   In general I would do both at same time and occasionally supplement with additional fat 6 months later.   it is important to not add too much fat.   There is 30-50% volume retention on a fairly permanent basis.   If overdone it is extremely difficult to correct.

Michael P. Morrissette, DDS, FACS · Answer

Ideally, if you are indeed a candidate for both procedures then they should be done simultaneously. Restoring volume and improving skin and muscle laxity is an excellent combination with facelift and fat grafting.

A.J. Amadi, MD · Answer

We often do deep plane face lifts at the same setting as facial fat grafting. Posting a photo would be helpful to show whether you are good candidate for both.

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. A facelift and facial fat grafting can be performed at the same time. Fat grafting is actually a nice complement to the facelift, restoring natural volume to the face at the same time the facelift addresses loose skin. Make sure your doctor is a board-certified facial plastic surgeon with extensive experience in these procedures to ensure an optimal outcome.

Andrew Campbell, MD · Answer

Facelifts and fat grafting treat two different problems. If you have both laxity and a need for additional volume then you may be a candidate for both a deep plane facelift and fat grafting. These two procedures can easily be performed during the same surgery. See someone with extensive experience.Andrew Campbell, M.D.Facial Rejuvenation SpecialistQuintessa

Roger Tsai, MD · Answer

Great question! You can absolutely have both of these procedures performed at the same time. Understand the skin and volume are two different issues at one will not treat the other that is why the doctors have recommended two different procedures. Having these procedures performed at the same time will prevent you from having to go through anesthesia twice, go through recovery twice, and take off time from your life twice. It is very commonly performed together and we’ll provide you with the most significant restoration. Seek a consultation with a few board-certified plastic surgeons and go with the one you feel most comfortable with.
Best of luck and hope this information helps!

- Dr. Roger Tsai @DrRogerTsai

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Brian K. Machida, MD, FACS · Answer

I would recommend facelift and fat injection at the same time. Not all fat injection techniques are the same. Make sure the surgeon gets excellent take rates with his technique which should be around 80-95%. Those who felt it was a waste probably had take rates less than 50%.

Anthony A. Admire, MD, FACS · Answer

It would be helpful to see some photos first. However, fat transfer and a facelift, regardless of type can typically be combined during the same surgery. More surgeons are combining the two at the same time for a full rejuvenation effect, especially around the perioral and periorbital areas, as well as to correct any asymmetry issues.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

I have seen many people who have had fat injections ( by other  doctors). They all said it was a total waste of money and it wasn’t cheap.   a facelift is a great procedure  although you don’t state your age. A well done standard facelift is what I recommend. Deep plane facelifts means different things to different surgeons but the deep plane facelifts I have seen are no better than a well  done standard facelift.

Hello, Should I do a fat transfer to the face first or deep plane facelift first?

Answers (14)

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