Introduction
Self - fat filling of facial contours, also known as facial fat grafting or fat transfer, has emerged as a popular cosmetic procedure in New York City. As people age, the face experiences fat atrophy and volume loss, leading to a deflated and aged appearance. Self - fat filling offers a natural and long - lasting solution to restore facial volume and enhance facial contours. In this article, we will explore the top 5 aspects related to self - fat filling of facial contours in New York City, including top doctors, procedures, benefits, considerations, and frequently asked questions.
Top Doctors for Self - Fat Filling of Facial Contours in New York City
New York City is home to some of the most skilled and experienced plastic surgeons in the world. Here are five top doctors renowned for their expertise in self - fat filling of facial contours:
1. Dr. Khosh
Dr. Khosh performs fat grafting in Manhattan as an in - house procedure. He gently harvests a small amount of fat from the lower body, prepares it carefully, and then meticulously injects it into designated areas of the face. Fat transfer can be used to enhance the appearance of the cheeks, brow, temple, and orbital regions. His patients often notice improved facial contours and more vibrant and healthier skin after the procedure.
2. Dr. Richard Westreich
Double - board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Richard Westreich offers fat grafting as a two - stage technique for replacing lost volume using a patient's own tissues. The fat is typically harvested from the lower body (abdomen, thighs, or buttocks) and then processed for implantation into specific areas of the face. He also combines fat grafting with other procedures like facial liposuction or eyelid surgery to achieve comprehensive facial contouring results.
3. Dr. Thomas Sterry
Board - certified plastic surgeon Dr. Thomas Sterry is known for his work in permanent facial contouring. He can sculpt the face with fat injections, among other techniques, to help patients attain more defined features and a look that exudes vibrance and health. Dr. Sterry has over 20 years of experience and focuses on each patient's unique needs and aesthetic goals.
4. Dr. David Cangello
Dr. David Cangello is an expert in fat grafting to the face. He was mentored by one of the pioneers of the fat grafting method, Dr. Sydney Coleman, and continues to perform fat transfer using the techniques he learned. Dr. Cangello uses fat transfer to fill in surface depressions, achieve more youthful facial contours, and restore what age or other factors have altered.
5. Dr. Olivia Hutchinson
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson offers fat transfer as a completely natural procedure. She extracts fat from an area where it is plentiful, such as the belly, thighs, or hips, and then transfers it to areas of the face that need volume restoration. Her patients appreciate the dual benefit of slimming the donor area while enhancing facial contours.
Procedures Involved in Self - Fat Filling of Facial Contours
1. Fat Harvesting
Fat cells can be harvested from various areas of the body, such as the abdominal area, the flank area, the outer thigh, or the inner thigh. The incisions made for harvesting are usually very small, only about 3 millimeters, and are often located within natural creases of the body to minimize scarring. A specialized cannula is used to gently suction out the appropriate amount of fat under local anesthesia. For example, in Dr. Cangello's procedure, the donor site is first injected with an anesthetic, and then a small incision is made for access to harvest the fat.
2. Fat Processing
Once the fat is removed, it needs to be processed to ensure that only healthy, viable fat cells are used for injection. Typically, a centrifuge is used to separate the fat from fluids and oils that have been removed from the body. This purification process helps to promote fat viability and increase the chances of successful fat transfer. For instance, the fat harvested by Dr. Khosh is carefully prepared before being injected into the face.
3. Fat Transfer
After the fat is appropriately processed and purified, it is transferred to the recipient area of the face. A tiny incision is made, and a cannula is used to inject the fat into the treatment area. The doctor will gradually place small amounts of fat with each pass of the cannula until the desired fullness is achieved. Dr. Westreich precisely injects the fat into specific areas of the face to replace lost volume and improve facial contours.
Benefits of Self - Fat Filling of Facial Contours
1. Natural Results
Since self - fat filling uses the patient's own fat, the results look and feel more natural compared to other fillers. The transferred fat blends well with the existing facial tissues, and there is no risk of an allergic reaction. As age - related volume loss is addressed, the face regains its youthful fullness in a natural way. For example, in cases where patients have hollow cheeks or under - eye hollows, fat transfer can fill these areas and give a more natural appearance.
2. Long - Lasting Effects
The transferred fat cells that survive in the treatment area will generally stay there indefinitely. While a certain percentage of the transferred fat may be resorbed, the majority of the fat cells can produce a very long - lasting result. This means that patients can enjoy the benefits of facial rejuvenation for many years. For instance, after a successful fat transfer procedure, patients can maintain their improved facial contours with minimal follow - up treatments.
3. Dual Benefit of Fat Reduction
The fat is harvested from areas of the body where it is in excess, such as the abdomen or thighs. So, in addition to enhancing facial contours, self - fat filling also helps to slim down the donor area. This dual benefit makes it an attractive option for patients who want to address both facial aging and body contouring. For example, a patient who has excess abdominal fat can have it removed and used to enhance their facial features at the same time.
4. Stem Cell Benefits
Your fat naturally contains stem cells, which have anti - aging and rejuvenating properties. These stem cells can help improve the quality of the surrounding skin, making it look more youthful and healthy. They can stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture, which is an added bonus of self - fat filling procedures.
Considerations Before Self - Fat Filling of Facial Contours
1. Patient Selection
Ideal candidates for self - fat filling of facial contours should be healthy and have enough fat on potential donor areas to be harvested. They should also have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure. Age - related changes vary from person to person, and not everyone is a suitable candidate. For example, patients with certain medical conditions may need to be evaluated carefully before undergoing the procedure. Patients should also understand that multiple sessions may be necessary to achieve the desired results.
2. Surgeon Experience
Choosing an experienced and board - certified plastic surgeon is crucial for the success of the procedure. A skilled surgeon will have a better understanding of facial anatomy and the techniques involved in fat harvesting, processing, and transfer. They will be able to customize the treatment plan according to the patient's unique needs and facial features. For instance, a surgeon like Dr. Sterry, with over 20 years of experience, is more likely to achieve optimal results.
3. Recovery Time
The recovery time after self - fat filling of facial contours can vary. The donor area may be sore or slightly bruised for about one week, and the face may be swollen for less than a week. Patients typically return to work and social activities within one week, but they may experience mild discomfort during the first week. It is important to follow the surgeon's post - operative instructions, which may include wearing a compression strap after facial liposuction (if combined) and taking prescribed pain medication.
4. Cost
The cost of self - fat filling of facial contours can vary depending on the extent of the procedure, the surgeon's fees, and the location. In New York City, where the cost of living is high, the price may be relatively higher compared to other areas. Patients should get a detailed quote from the surgeon and understand what is included in the cost, such as the surgical fee, anesthesia fee, and post - operative care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Self - Fat Filling of Facial Contours
1. How much fat is usually transferred into the face?
The volume of fat transfer is dependent on the needs of each patient. On an average patient, 10 to 15 ml of fat is transferred during one session. However, this can vary based on the areas being treated and the patient's facial structure.
2. Can the fat from liposuction on my lower body be transferred into my face?
In order for the transferred fat cells to remain viable, the liposuction needs to be performed with a delicate low - suction technique. The standard body liposuction is performed under high suction with possible addition of ultrasound or laser, both of which are disruptive to the fat cells. One option would be to harvest the fat transfer cells before the standard liposuction during one procedure.
3. If I gain fat after fat transfer, will my face become fuller?
Yes, but not necessarily due to the transferred fat cells. The face always becomes fuller with weight gain, and this process will not be significantly affected after fat transfer. The transferred fat will behave like normal facial fat and may increase or decrease in volume with weight changes, but it is a relatively small part of the overall facial fat.
4. How many fat transfer sessions are necessary to achieve final results?
Most patients reach their desired results with only one session of fat grafting. However, in some patients, a second procedure may be necessary. Approximately 50 - 60 percent of transferred fat cells will survive after the procedure, so additional sessions may be needed to achieve the ideal volume.
5. How is the recovery from fat transfer?
The donor area may be sore or slightly bruised for one week. The face is swollen for less than a week. There is minimal discomfort, and patients typically return to work and social activities within one week. The majority of swelling should disappear within a month, and bruising will subside in about 10 - 14 days.
6. Do I need general anesthesia or sedation for this procedure?
No. Most patients undergo the procedure under local anesthesia. Occasionally, sedation is used to relax a very nervous patient. Local anesthesia reduces the risks associated with general anesthesia and allows for a quicker recovery.
Conclusion
Self - fat filling of facial contours is a popular and effective cosmetic procedure in New York City. It offers natural - looking and long - lasting results, along with the added benefit of fat reduction from the donor area. However, it is important for patients to carefully consider the procedure, choose an experienced surgeon, and have realistic expectations. By understanding the procedures, benefits, considerations, and frequently asked questions, patients can make an informed decision about whether self - fat filling of facial contours is right for them.
If you are interested in learning more about self - fat filling of facial contours in New York City, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the top doctors mentioned in this article. Take the first step towards enhancing your facial appearance and regaining your youthful confidence!
