Facial Fat Grafting
Fast Facts
Longevity: Permanent (Natural tissue)
Anesthesia: Local with Sedation or General
Best For: Hollow cheeks, under-eye bags, and “Ozempic Face” restoration.
Facial fat grafting, also known as fat transfer to the face, is a cosmetic procedure performed by a Facial Plastic Surgeon to enhance facial fullness, smooth out wrinkles, and restore a youthful appearance. This technique involves transferring fat from one part of the body to the face, providing a natural-looking way to rejuvenate the facial skin and contour. It’s an effective method for adding volume to areas such as the cheeks, under the eyes, the lips, and around the mouth, where signs of aging are often most visible.
As we age, our face naturally loses volume, leading to a more hollow or sunken appearance, as well as wrinkles and fine lines. Facial fat grafting works to counteract these changes by using the patient’s own fat as a filler, which reduces the risk of allergic reactions and ensures a natural feel and appearance.
PERFORMED AT OUR LONDON, ON SURGICAL SUITE.
Patients from across Southwestern Ontario, including Byron, Masonville, and Sunningdale, choose Nichols Facial Plastic Surgery for our specialized focus on the face. Dr. Nichols understands the desire for a “refreshed, not done” look that fits the active, professional lifestyle of our London community.
Facial Fat Grafting Procedure
The procedure begins with the surgeon removing a small amount of fat from an area with excess fat, such as the abdomen or thighs, via liposuction. The fat is then purified and prepared for injection into the target areas of the face.
The benefits of facial fat grafting include not only the added volume but also potential improvements in skin texture and tone, as the transferred fat contains stem cells that may help rejuvenate the skin. The results can be subtle yet impactful, providing a refreshed, more youthful look.
Recovery & Results
Restoring Volume After Significant Weight Loss.
Many of our London patients visiting us for fat grafting are looking to correct “hollowed” features following weight loss. While medications like Ozempic provide incredible health benefits, they often lead to a loss of structural facial fat. Dr. Nichols specializes in using fat transfer to restore the youthful “Ogee curve” of the cheeks and fill hollowed temples, providing a permanent solution to weight-loss-related facial aging.
Key Facts
Consult: 60 minutes
Procedure: 1.5 hours
Recovery: 2-4 weeks
Duration of results: 10+ years
Note: Individual results can vary.
Why Choose Dr. Nichols?
The procedure’s success heavily depends on the technique used by the Facial Plastic Surgeon, making it important to choose a surgeon with extensive experience in facial fat grafting. A skilled surgeon will assess your facial structure, discuss your aesthetic goals, and develop a customized plan to achieve the best results. They will also provide you with detailed information about the procedure, including how to prepare for surgery and what to expect during the recovery process.
Facial fat grafting is a highly individualized procedure and should be done for personal reasons, aiming to meet your specific aesthetic goals. If you’re considering this procedure, scheduling a consultation with a Facial Plastic Surgeon is an important step towards understanding how facial fat grafting can help you achieve a more youthful and revitalized appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does facial fat grafting last compared to dermal fillers?
Unlike temporary dermal fillers that dissolve within 6–12 months, facial fat grafting is considered a permanent solution. Once the transferred fat establishes a blood supply in its new location (typically within 3–6 months), those cells remain for years. This makes it a one-time investment for long-term facial volume.
Can fat grafting fix facial hollowness after weight loss or Ozempic?
Yes. “Ozempic Face” or rapid weight loss often leads to a depleted, aged appearance due to the loss of deep fat pads. Dr. Nichols specializes in Volume Restoration Surgery in London, ON, using fat grafting to naturally rebuild the cheeks, temples, and under-eye area that diet and exercise cannot restore.
Where is the facial fat grafting procedure performed in London, Ontario?
All surgical procedures, including fat transfer and facelifts, are performed at our state-of-the-art surgical suite located at 526 Oxford St E, London, ON. Our clinic serves patients from across Southwestern Ontario, including North London, Masonville, and Sunningdale.
Why should I choose a Facial Plastic Surgeon for fat grafting?
The face is an intricate map of nerves and blood vessels. Choosing a Harvard-trained specialist like Dr. Nichols ensures that the fat is harvested, purified, and injected with surgical precision to avoid lumps and ensure a natural, “un-operated” look. Generalists may offer fat transfer, but a facial specialist understands the specific contours of facial aging.
What is the average cost of facial fat grafting in London?
The cost of facial fat grafting varies based on the number of areas treated (e.g., full face vs. just the under-eyes). While a consultation is required for an exact quote, many patients find it more cost-effective than fillers over a 5-year period. We offer flexible financing options through Beautifi to help London patients manage their investment.