Structural Fat Grafting
While liposuction, the surgical removal of unwanted fat deposits from certain areas of the body, has been around for many years, a procedure designed to re-introduce fat to the body as an anti-aging technique is much more recent. Structural fat grafting relies on injections of tiny parcels of fat to restore more youthful contours to the face which are lost through aging.
Dr. Timothy Greco has added structural fat grafting to his Philadelphia practice and has been successfully utilizing this therapy for years. It has become an important part in treating the aging face, including the nasolabial folds and marionette lines, which ultimately complement the face lift result. It has also become a popular technique for natural lip augmentation and cheek augmentation.
As we age, the fat deposits, muscle, and connective tissues in our faces change, leaving skin sagging and unsupported. Structural fat grafting helps replace and redistribute the lost fat giving the face the plump, fuller appearance associated with youth.
In the past, fat transfer was controversial because the harvested fat was fragile and usually short-lived. In the late 1980's, a method was devised for harvesting the body's fat by using a small cannula. A delicate instrument was then used to re-inject tiny parcels of the fat into the body instead of placing it in large deposits.
Structural fat grafting is now used to enhance lips, fill in hollowness around the eyes, strengthen jaw lines, and fill in cheeks and nasolabial folds. By using the patient's own fat, there is no risk of allergic reactions or rejections by the body. The deeply embedded fat does not shift or migrate. Though more time consuming than other injectable fillers, structural fat grafting is more cost effective due to its long lasting results.
Dr. Greco's practice is limited solely to excellence in aesthetic surgery of the face, and he serves patients from Philadelphia and out of the area. If you would like to meet with Dr. Greco to discuss cosmetic enhancements, call the Eastern Cosmetic Surgery Institute at (610) 664-8830, or request a consultation online today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is structural fat grafting performed?
Excess fat is removed typically from the abdomen, specially prepared, and then re-implanted in tiny droplets to augment an area of the face.
What should I expect after the procedure?
Results are seen immediately, though a slightly "overfilled" look may be present initially since some of the fat will be reabsorbed by the body over time. Some swelling and bruising should be expected. You will be provided with post-operative instructions which you should follow closely in order to ensure the best results. Compared to many other cosmetic procedures, structural fat grafting is associated with a quick recovery.
What are the risks?
Though it is a surgical procedure, there are few risks associated with fat grafting. In rare instances asymmetry, infection, hematoma, seroma, discoloration, contour abnormalities and other complications may occur.
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