Facial Fat Transfer vs Fillers
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Over the age of 30, the natural ageing process begins to impact the appearance of our facial features. Collagen is the key protein responsible for maintaining the skin’s elasticity. When levels of collagen begin to decline, several recognised consequences may lead us to appear older than we actually are. What often begins as fine lines and wrinkles eventually progresses to the development of sagging skin under the influence of gravity. When self-confidence is affected, people begin to look for ways to achieve a more youthful-looking appearance. Early signs of ageing may not require invasive . Ideal treatments at this stage often include or .
Both fat transfer and dermal fillers have pros and cons. If you are keen to explore the differences between them, we recommend consulting with a consultant plastic surgeon at the Centre for Surgery. Here, we discuss the benefits of fat transfer vs. fillers.
What is fat transfer to the face?
Understanding the benefits of fat transfer or fillers requires first understanding what each treatment entails. Fat transfer, or fat grafting or lipofilling, is a two-step procedure. The first part of any fat transfer procedure involves removing fat from another part of the body, such as the inner thighs, abdomen or buttocks. Before the fat can be re-injected, it must be processed to remove impurities, which is often performed in a centrifuge. The prepared fat is then injected into targeted areas of the face. Fat transfer is known for producing natural-looking results. As we age, we begin to lose volume in certain areas of the face, such as the cheeks, and this may be by an increase in saggy skin. Fat transfer to the face is particularly effective for:
Unlike facelift surgery, which is more for extensive signs of ageing, facial fat transfer can be performed in younger age groups as a minimally invasive alternative.
What are dermal fillers?
Dermal fillers contain acid and are used to treat early signs of ageing. Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally within the body, and the risk of allergic reactions is, therefore, minimal. For people who may not be keen on the idea of surgery, fillers are an excellent alternative for achieving anti-ageing effects without any downtime. Compared to fat transfer, dermal fillers are not a permanent treatment; however, results can last over 12 months, depending on the specific performed. Dermal filler treatment is an excellent non-surgical alternative to improve early signs of facial ageing. Dermal fillers can be used for many areas of the face, including:
There is a wide variety of brands of dermal fillers. Here at Centre for Surgery, our specialists are in the use of Juvederm, Belotero and Restylane.
How do you choose between fat transfer and fillers?
Face fat transfer and dermal fillers are both designed to achieve similar results. Although face fat transfer is a minimally invasive surgical procedure, dermal fillers are a non-surgical treatment. When considering whether to choose fat transfer or fillers, it is essential to be aware of the benefits of each treatment.
Fat grafting involves using your own body fat to enhance facial without the need for artificial implants. Fat transfer to the face produces long-lasting results compared with dermal fillers. Fat transfer is considered to be a two-in-one procedure. The first step involves performing liposuction to remove fat, allowing patients to benefit from an improved body contour, including a flatter stomach. Fat can be injected into targeted areas of the face to address early signs of ageing. Research has shown fat cells to have regenerative effects, leading to an improvement in skin quality.
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Dermal fillers are an effective treatment to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Patients can return to their normal activities immediately after treatment. Results are noticeable after 48 hours, once bruising and swelling have settled down.
What are the disadvantages of fat transfer vs dermal fillers?
When considering cosmetic treatment, it is to be aware of both the benefits and risks associated with the . A detailed consultation with a consultant plastic surgeon can give you the necessary understanding to decide on the proper treatment for you. There are certain aspects of both treatments that you should be aware of.
As with any fat procedure, a small proportion of fat will be naturally reabsorbed. In some cases, additional top-up treatment may be necessary to enhance the results further. Choosing an experienced fat transfer surgeon at Centre for will minimise this risk. Centre for Surgery is known as a centre of excellence for fat transfer. Fat transfer costs more than dermal fillers, as it is a surgical procedure that involves sophisticated medical equipment. Many patients accept the higher cost of fat transfer surgery as it can produce results. Results may take 2 to 3 weeks to appear after fat transfer, due to swelling. Patients must comply with post-operative care instructions to get the best possible results.
Dermal are a temporary treatment with results lasting between six months and 18 months. Once dermal fillers have worn off, the body will naturally absorb them. dermal fillers are cheaper, they can work out more expensive in the long run with regular treatments needed over time. Fillers are a safe treatment with minimal risk of complications. Dermal fillers involve the injection of synthetic hyaluronic acid, which may, in sporadic cases, result in an allergic or cause skin necrosis.
Should I choose fat transfer or fillers?
The choice fat transfer and fillers depends Champagne On Ice – Deep Cleansing your treatment expectations and your tolerance for downtime after . If you want to improve the overall fullness or plumpness of your face, then fat transfer to the face could be ideal for enhancing the under-eye area, cheeks, or . Dermal can also enhance soft tissue volume in the face, but are more suitable for treating lines and wrinkles. Choosing between fat transfer and dermal fillers can be helped by consulting with a specialist surgeon at Centre for Surgery. In many cases, it may be recommended to have a combination treatment involving both fat transfer and dermal fillers to achieve impressive anti-ageing effects without the need for more invasive surgery.
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Centre for Surgery is a CQC-regulated private hospital on London’s Baker Street, delivering and surgery through GMC-registered specialist surgeons. Our expertise spans facial procedures including and , , for men, and body contouring procedures such as and . Patient safety, surgical excellence and natural-looking results sit at the heart of everything we do.
Centre for Surgery is a CQC-regulated private hospital on London’s iconic , offering plastic and cosmetic surgery led by GMC-registered consultant surgeons.
Marylebone
London
W1U 6RN
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