For fat transfers involving the face, a facial compression wrap is recommended
Fat transfer is a safe, natural and non-allergenic alternative to such controversial wrinkle treatments as Botox. With fat transfer, you can have your own body fat removed through liposuction techniques and have it reapplied in order to recontour your face, neck and chin. This procedure can be used to plump up cheeks, correct facial deformities or aid in post-trauma or post-surgical defects. For these procedures, a facial compression wrap is recommended.
Fat transfer can be performed on an outpatient basis, so you won’t have to worry about long recovery times. Post surgical recovery garments, also known as compression garments, can help with not only the healing time but also help your body maintain its new shape.
Here’s how it works:
- A local anesthetic is applied to both the donor site (usually the thighs or the buttocks) and the treatment site.
- A syringe is used to extract the fat cells from the donor site.
- The fat is treated to remove impurities and is then re-injected into the treatment site.
- The patient is fitted with a compression garment.
Fat transfer treatments can last up to three years. They are often combined with other treatments such as laser liposuction or ultrasound treatments for better results. First-time patients usually receive an initial injection that lasts six months, and then receive follow-up treatments three to four times during that same period.
Do note that fat transfer is not recommended for breasts since it can interfere with mammograms.