Fat Grafting Little Rock,AR

Little Rock Arkansas Cosmetic Surgeon Dr. Michael Devlin has extensive experience in fat grafting or fat transfer. “I have been performing facial fat grafting since the late 1990's" says Dr. Michael Devlin. "Since that time the techniques and instruments have evolved allowing me to achieve more natural and longer lasting results.  Most of my facelift surgeries now include facial fat grafting so I can achieve a more optimal and improved youthful appearance. The number of fat grafting procedures I have performed in the last year has tripled due to increased patient awareness and the results I am able to achieve."

Volume loss to the face is one of the hallmark signs of aging along with wrinkling and facial sagging. Volume loss results in hallowed eyes, dented temples, sunken cheeks and thin lips.  Most people turn to dermal fillers to correct this sign of aging. However, this can become very expensive and the results do not last requiring additional expense and treatment. Fortunately, there is an option that delivers longer lasting results and is more economical. Facial fat grafting ( or fat Transfer ) uses your own fat to restore volume loss in your face and you may actually get you a better and longer lasting result for less money

Here are a few of the more common questions that are asked about Facial Fat Grafting ( fat transfer )

How is the Fat Harvested?

Dr. Michael Devlin uses micro liposuction cannulas to harvest the fat cells. This will allow the best opportunity for new blood supply to develop and  help with the survival and longevity of the newly grafted fat cells.. Dr. Devlin is careful to during the harvesting and processing of the donor fat  so that the fat cells will have the best chance of survival.

Fat is harvested through a small incision in areas where there is unwanted fat on the body.  For instance, fat taken from the abdomen involves the use of a small incision made within the umbilicus (belly button). The fat is harvested using specialized liposuction techniques. Using the hand-held liposuction device, the fat is less likely to be damaged by undue negative suction pressure and more likely to survive.

How is the Fat Prepared?

The fat is carefully and gently washed with a special solution and then mixed with some antibiotics. The healthy fat cells are then separated from the dead cells and the fluid. They are loaded into syringes and made ready for injection.

How is the Fat Grafting Procedure Performed?

Fat is injected and transplanted using the micro-grafting technique. This means using very small cannulas. This is so very thin tunnels will be created with fat filling these tunnels. The fat tunnels are at different levels, and cross through the area to be augmented. Together, these will allow the best opportunity to have the new blood supply grow in.

Fat Transfer Candidates

Facial fat grafting is a good option for anyone that is already using dermal fillers such as Restylane or Juvederm Voluma. Dr. Michael Devlin prefers facial fat grafting over injectable fillers in cases where a more significant amount of volume enhancement or replacement is necessary. Though facial fat grafting is rising in popularity it is not the right option for everyone.  The ideal candidate for fat transfers should be in generally good health and enough available fat for the desired transfer. 

Fat Transfer Recovery

The only incisions involved with fat transfer are those caused by the liposuction. The fat injection process that follows is minimally invasive. Therefore, people often experience only a brief recovery period, getting back to normal activities quickly. Bruising, swelling, and discomfort are normal side effects, but any pain can be controlled with medication, and should subside within a few days.

Is Fat Grafting Really Permanent?

Fat that manages to establish itself in the treated areas and survive after the procedure is considered permanent. However, since not all the fat injected will survive, the results are only considered permanent after about 6 months. This is why patients need to wait to see final results. Some patients require more than one treatment.

How Much Volume Can I Get From a Fat Transfer?

The amount of augmentation that can be achieved during fat transfer depends on the amount of volume desired, the site which is being treated, and the amount of fat available for transfer. You and Dr. Devlin will discuss the amount of volume that can be expected from the available fat and tailor a treatment plan to suit your needs and your body.

If you are ready for a more youthful you, contact Dr. Michael Devlin at 501-227-8811 and request your consultation, or fill out the contact form below.