What Should I Do to Prepare for My Facial Fat Transfer?

Have you started to notice areas of your face developing a hollow appearance as you age? At Être Cosmetic Dermatology and Laser Center, we offer a solution for areas like the cheeks, jaw, chin, and lips that have lost volume due to age. A facial fat transfer is a surgical procedure that involves harvesting fat cells from one area and injecting them into a spot that needs improvement.

Dr. Lisa Donofrio generally takes the fat from somewhere you have extra, like your thighs, hips, or abdomen. In most instances, she removes the fat through liposuction, purifies it in a centrifuge, then adds it back into facial areas that need a lift.

As with any surgical procedure, knowing how to prepare and what to expect from the process can be valuable for your recovery, results, and reducing any pre-operative anxiety you might have.

5 Tips to Help You Get Ready for Your Facial Fat Transfer

Before your surgery, Dr. Donofrio recommends taking steps that will reduce your risk of complication, keep you as comfortable as possible and ensure you get the best overall results from your treatment.

1. Find a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

The first and most critical step before undergoing a facial fat transfer is find a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in facial fat transfers. Dr. Donofrio is a world-renowned expert in fat transfer techniques. To avoid potential complications, she will ask you to describe your health history, including what types of medication you are taking in case they are unsuitable for use before, during, or after your fat transfer. She’ll also provide pre-operative instructions like how to prepare for your recovery to ensure the best results.

2. Stop Smoking

Even if you can’t quit for good, you should stop smoking for at least six weeks before and after your facial fat transfer. Smoking is one of the worst things you can do for your overall health. In addition to its effects on your cardiovascular and respiratory systems, it slows circulation and impedes healing. It usually takes smokers significantly longer to recover from surgery than non-smokers. Smoking can also increase your chances of complications such as infection.

3. Consider Where Your “Donor” Location Will Be

When performing a facial fat transfer, Dr. Donofrio starts by harvesting fat from a secondary location like the thighs, belly, or buttocks. She removes fat using a gentle liposuction technique and tiny incisions hidden within natural creases on your body to avoid any noticeable scars. Before your procedure, consider a specific area where you’d like to have a little extra body contouring.

4. Prepare Time to Heal

Most patients experience discomfort and swelling for 48 hours after their treatment. It will be least seven days before you can return to your regular schedule. To prepare, take time off from work and arrange to have some help with your children, pets, or other responsibilities during your recovery period.

5. Take Advantage of Your Consultation

One of the best ways to prepare for any cosmetic procedure is to take full advantage of your consultation with Dr. Donofrio. This face-to-face meeting is your opportunity to ask all your questions about the procedure, recovery, and expectations surrounding your results. You’ll feel more confident, assured, and prepared for every step of your procedure.

Ask About Facial Fat Transfer at Être Cosmetic Dermatology & Laser Center

Facial fat transfer injections provide natural-looking, long-lasting results. To schedule your consultation with Dr. Donofrio, call our office at (504) 227-3873 or contact us through our website.