The body loses volume as it ages. This aging process becomes most apparent in skin that has begun to sag, lines and wrinkles that have become more prevalent, and facial features that have begun to look gaunt and thin. This loss of volume is a natural result of the aging process, but that doesn’t mean it has to be permanent. By utilizing one’s own fat (transferred from one area of the body to another), volume can be restored to other areas of the body (such as the buttocks and face) that have begun to show signs of age. Dr. Taranow offers this fat transfer procedure to rejuvenate and refresh the body, which ultimately restores a more youthful look.
Candidates
Fat transfer is an appropriate procedure for anyone who is looking to restore volume to parts of the body that have begun to look too thin, such as the cheeks or lips. Patients who have moderate lines and wrinkles can also benefit from fat transfer to smooth out the skin, which reduces the appearance of wrinkles. In addition, candidates should have sufficient fat that can be used for the transfer. As with any cosmetic procedure, one should be in good health and have realistic expectations for the procedure.
The Procedure
The procedure is performed in two parts. The first part is the fat extraction, which is performed under local, sedation or general anesthesia. Dr. Taranow inserts a cannula into the area from where the fat will be extracted and suctions out the fat needed for the transfer. Possible extraction sites include the abdomen, sides, thighs, or arms. Once the fat has been removed, it is cleaned and purified before it is prepared in specially designed syringes. For the second part of the procedure, Dr. Taranow injects the prepared fat into the predetermined treatment area(s).
Results
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Recovery
The procedure will likely cause swelling, bruising, and some slight discomfort. These effects are all normal and will subside within a couple of days. While any cosmetic procedure has a risk of complication, this is rare with fat transfer. To ensure the most promising results, it is vital to follow the post-operative care instructions provided by Dr. Taranow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I a good candidate for fat transfer surgery?
Patients interested in fat transfer surgery must be in good overall health, have a good amount of excess fat on their body for harvesting, and have realistic expectations about their procedure. You will also be asked to quit smoking and drinking a few weeks before and after your surgery.
Are there any possible risks and side effects with fat transfer?
While rare, there are a few risks and side effects involved with fat transfer. This includes bleeding, infection, allergic reactions to the anesthesia, discoloration, and blood clots.