Fat grafting – facial lipofilling
Time is inexorable for our skin – as it passes and the associated aging processes occur, the volume of the face decreases and unsightly adipose tissue loss appears. This is caused not only by local atrophy of fat, but also by collagen, elastin and water fibers, which results in loss of elasticity, tissue firmness and visible sagging. Nasolabial folds, the so-called “hamster lines”, marionette lines appear, the eyelids become thin and blue, the cheeks sag, etc.
Does it have to be this way? Fortunately, aesthetic medicine in Poznań has many ways to support the condition of the skin and approaches this task very holistically. One of these methods is fat grafting – lipofilling.
What exactly is lipofilling?
The lipofilling procedure consists of several stages. Initially, adipose tissue is collected from the patient – this is done under local anesthesia, which helps minimize any discomfort. Then the collected material is appropriately prepared – so that it can then be applied to the target site. Its implantation under the skin is the last – key – element of the procedure. In this way, the previously mentioned defects are filled, giving the skin a beautiful, natural volume.
Where is the material for lipofilling taken from? The most commonly used areas for fat collection are the lateral and medial surfaces of the thighs, the abdominal area, the lower abdomen and the so-called “flanks”.
Importantly, in our Biogenica Clinic we usually perform this type of procedure using a combined technique – this allows us to obtain valuable pericytes from adipose tissue, as well as use platelet-rich plasma. Pericytes, commonly called stem cells, are nothing more than cells with multipotent properties. They significantly accelerate the regeneration process and ultimately improve the effects of the procedure. What is more, we very often combine fat transplants with laser treatments. Then the effects of lipofilling can be spectacular.
What is worth knowing?
Purpose of the procedure/indications for lipofilling
Lipofilling allows you to fill in the volume deficits in the face, which are the result of aging processes. It also helps to improve the quality and general condition of the skin.
Preparation for lipofilling
Before lipofilling, it is necessary to perform the necessary tests. These include:
- morphology
- CRP
- INR
- general urine test
- lipidogram
- fasting sugar
- AST and ALAT
- Hepatitis B – AG, p- bodies in vaccinated people
- HCV
- creatinine
- ionogram
- blood type
- EKG with description (in people over 40 years of age)
- TSH
- ALP
Type of anesthesia
Local anesthesia.
Fat grafting – Duration of the procedure
Lipofilling lasts about 2-5 hours. After this time, you leave the Clinic to calmly undergo the convalescence process in the comfort of your home.
Lipofilling – post-procedure recommendations
Then it is necessary to take prescribed medications and undergo specialist check-ups. When it comes to returning to mental work and driving – after lipofilling, it is enough to wait 1 day.
Fat grafting – Symptoms after the procedure
After lipofilling, the following usually occur: discomfort/pain, significant swelling, bruising. Importantly, when it comes to the last two symptoms – swelling and bruising – they usually last no longer than 14-21 days.
Possible complications after lipofilling
After fat grafting, the following are possible: obtaining excessive correction (after some time, the excess fat will be absorbed), insufficient correction (may require another procedure), palpable lumps or unevenness under the skin (usually disappear after massage), hematoma, infection (occurs exceptionally rarely, although – as with any injection – this possibility should be remembered).
Fat grafting – Effects of the procedure
Ultimately, Lipofilling allows you to restore youthful facial features, improve the condition of the skin and add freshness and completely new energy. Importantly, since the procedure uses material taken from the patient, the effects are usually very natural – as if time suddenly started to turn back!
