Lipotransfer in Santa Monica

For many people, age brings about the loss of facial volume, which results in the development of issues such as hollow areas, jowling, folds of skin around the nose and mouth. Lipotransfer in Santa Monica and NYC at Grossman Dermatology is an excellent way to address these problems in a more permanent way than dermal fillers.

A Two-in-One Procedure

In lipotransfer, fat is removed from one area (usually the hips or buttocks) and then injected into another area where more volume is desired. In this way, lipotransfer is a two-in-one procedure: fat is recycled from one area where you don’t want it to an area that you do. Fat fills from the bottom up — similar to padding underneath a carpet — delivering a soft filling effect, unlike other fillers. Fat is a potent source of stem cells, which is why it is often called a “stem cell transfer”.

In Dr. Grossman’s technique, both stem cells and actual fat cells are transferred into the new areas, creating volume and skin rejuvenation. Fat can also be turned into microfat — a solution more focused on stem cells. Microfat is often used to treat the thin skin under the eyes, small lines on the face (cracks), and those pesky “tech neck” lines circling the neck.

Key benefits of facial fat transfer

Long-lasting, natural-looking results
Removes fat from unwanted area
Delivers youthful volume to areas where needed
Improves skin texture and tone
No risk of allergic reaction
Delivers stem cells to targeted areas

How Fat is Used as Filler

Fat is frequently used to augment the bony structures of the face. It can be injected along the cheekbones, the apples of the cheeks, and along the jawline. Fat can also be used to “lift” the face when augmenting areas such as the cheekbones, jawline, and chin. Often fat and microfat are layered into the same area, or used to treat multiple areas at the same time to create the best effect.

Before & After

Techniques for Fat Injection

There are many different techniques in which fat is injected. Some surgeons perform a single procedure in which multiple injections of fresh fat are performed on that day. There’s usually a significant amount of fat transfer, and swelling can last for weeks. The results, as well as the side effects, will be dependent upon the technique used.

What to Expect in the Procedure

In Dr. Grossman’s fat injection procedure is performed using local anesthesia, a volume of fat is removed with a mini-liposuction session and is then injected into the area where volume is needed. There is typically some mild swelling for 3-4 days (most patients say it looks similar to having a dental procedure performed).

After that, a small amount of fat is injected monthly. This allows for a layering of the fat over time. It’s also helpful to correct asymmetries, which are present in every person’s face. The result is a complete correction — but never an overdone look.

During your consultation, we will show you pictures of how patients look one year after their final fat transfer injection, and you will still see an improvement in their face. Depending on the amount of correction desired, some patients require two years’ worth of treatments to optimize their outcome.

Lipotransfer

at Grossman Dermatology

Grossman Dermatology is a long-established, high-end boutique cosmetic dermatology practice known for its high level of customer care. Dr. Karyn Grossman is a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist who is highly regarded for her years of experience, dedicated attention, patient education, and artistic and natural-looking results. If you’re interested in receiving lipotransfer in Santa Monica or NYC, we invite you to contact us to set up your consultation.

FAQ

When is the best time to have lipotransfer done?

Are the results permanent?

Are there any risks?

When is the best time to have lipotransfer done?

Because there’s a small chance of getting a bruise, we ask patients not to schedule their injection the week prior to any major event such as a television appearance, wedding, important meeting, etc.

Are the results permanent?

The advantage to lipotransfer is that over time, some of the correction becomes permanent. Over the year, approximately 30%-40% of the fat will become permanent in its new environment. It’s unclear whether the fat cells actually graft, or whether the body responds with a process called fibroplasia (where the body lays down new cells and collagen). We do have biopsies of patients who have had this procedure done that show both live fat cells as well as fibroblastic response.

Are there any risks?

As with any procedure, there are risks associated. There will be a small scar at the site of fat removal, and when injected, there’s a small chance of swelling or bruising, infection, and in rare cases, a scar.

Lipotransfer in Santa Monica

A Two-in-One Procedure

Key benefits of facial fat transfer

How Fat is Used as Filler

Before & After

Techniques for Fat Injection

What to Expect in the Procedure

Lipotransfer

at Grossman Dermatology

FAQ

When is the best time to have lipotransfer done?

Are the results permanent?

Are there any risks?

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