Facial Fat Transfer in Houston, TX

Also referred to as fat transfer or facial fat rejuvenation, a facial fat transfer is a procedure that moves fat from somewhere on your body to the facial area. It restores volume that has been lost due to aging and can also fix issues like scarring. One of the reasons that patients like this procedure is because it addresses two problems at once – by removing excess fat from a problem area and improving another area that needs more plumpness.

A doctor will often recommend a facial fat transfer for lips as well as under the eyes. It can be used to add volume to the cheeks and around the folds between the nose and corners of the mouth. The procedure often accompanies an eye lift or a facelift for the desired results.

A fat transfer for the face is completed in three steps. First, the surgeon will extract fat from another area of the body, using a needle. Then, the fat must be cleaned before the whole fat cells are injected into the target site for the final step.

Following the procedure, the doctor may prescribe pain medication to help with any discomfort. You will likely need to take it easy for a few days and can experience some swelling and bruising. The swelling should start improving in a few days and will be completely gone by four weeks post-procedure.

The ideal candidate for a facial fat transfer is someone who is in good health and at their ideal weight. They want to increase volume in their cheeks and in other areas of their face while still achieving a natural look. The patient will want long-term results they can’t get with non-surgical methods like Juvederm® or other injectables. They want to get rid of fine lines and wrinkles as the treated area is plumped up to restore a more youthful look.

Unlike with injectable dermal fillers, a facial fat transfer is a permanent treatment. The body doesn’t reabsorb the fat cells as it does with certain fillers, which allows it to continue to provide optimal results for the long term. However, weight gain or loss can impact how the results will appear, which is why it is best to be at your ideal weight before proceeding with this surgery.

How Much Does a Facial Fat Transfer Cost?

The cost of a facial fat transfer will vary based on where you need the fat added and how much, as well as what other procedures you may be having done at the same time. It also depends on how many areas are used in acquiring the fat cells. If a fat transfer is included with a facelift, the procedure will take longer and be costlier than a fat transfer alone. Fat transfer is also more expensive thanBotox® at Dr. Leo Lapuerta’s clinic, but the results are more permanent. Once you schedule a consultation with Dr. Lapuerta to discuss your goals and options, he will provide an estimate for the cost of the procedure.

Dr. Leo Lapuerta has been providing fat transfer and facelift services for his patients for more than 20 years. As a triple-board-certified plastic surgeon, he has performed more than 20,000 procedures to help patients look their best. If you are considering a facial fat transfer, schedule a free consultation to find out how Dr. Lapuerta can help you.