Fat Injections Or Fillers? What’s Better For My Face?
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Refining your features and reversing the signs of aging are more possible now than ever before, thanks to a virtually endless array of surgical and nonsurgical treatments. When it comes to facial rejuvenation specifically, many patients are torn about the decision between fat transfer vs. fillers. To better understand which option may be right for you, consider this information on facial fat transfer and injectable fillers from board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Kamal Sawan and the expert team at Sawan Surgical Aesthetics in Oklahoma City, OK.
What is the difference between fat injections and fillers?
While both fat transfer and dermal fillers can dramatically reduce the visible signs of aging, they are two very different treatments. Fat transfer, also known as fat grafting or facial fat transfer, involves removing small amounts of unwanted fat from another area of the body and injecting them into the face. Injectable dermal fillers, on the other hand, are synthetic products. Both treatments are widely popular for filling lines, smoothing wrinkles, and restoring lost facial volume, though each has its own unique set of characteristics that may make one or the other a more fitting option for you.
Should I get fillers or fat transfer?
Generally speaking, injectable dermal fillers are considered ideal for men and women who are hoping to fill deep folds and lines, or augment naturally flat features. Some of the most common facial concerns that can be dramatically improved with dermal fillers include:
- Thin lips
- Nasolabial folds
- Lines around the mouth
Patients who are primarily interested in restoring volume loss and appearing more youthful overall may benefit more by fat transfer, which can address:
- Hollow cheeks
- Dark circles under the eyes
- Bumpy jawline
- Weak chin
However, it is important to point out that fat grafting and fillers are often used interchangeably. In most cases, either can be used as a satisfactory solution for all of the concerns listed above, though Dr. Sawan may recommend one or the other based on the patient’s particular needs, goals, and other factors. In some cases, a combination of fat grafting plus fillers offers the most compelling result.
Ideal candidates for fat transfer to the face
Patient factors that may make fat transfer a better option than fillers include:
- Allergic to fillers
- Prefer a more natural alternative to fillers
- Want longer-lasting results
- Want a more natural look and feel
For patients who do not have enough available fat for transfer, are not able to take off 1 – 2 days of work for fat transfer recovery, or prefer results that are reversible, injectable dermal fillers may be a more appropriate choice.
Do fillers or fat injections last longer?
On average, patients can expect dermal fillers to last about 12 – 18 months before a repeat injection will be needed. This can vary somewhat depending on the type of filler that is used, how quickly the patient’s body breaks down the filler, and other factors. Fat transfer results can last years or even decades. While weight fluctuation and aging can affect the results of a facial fat transfer, a repeat procedure can typically help to restore a patient’s original outcome.
With facial fat grafting or dermal fillers in Oklahoma City, OK, you can get the celebrity-inspired look you’ve always wanted
Whether you’re hoping for a plumper pout to match your favorite celeb or simply want to look like a younger version of yourself, we can help. To take the first step toward a whole new you, call Sawan Surgical Aesthetics in Oklahoma City to schedule your facial rejuvenation consultation with renowned board-certified plastic surgeon and aesthetic expert Dr. Kamal Sawan today!