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Can Fat Injection procedures Replace Injectable Filler Treatments?
How successful are fat injection procedures to the nasolabial folds of the face? Within the last two years, I have had Restylane, Perlane, and Juvederm injected into the face. They worked well, but of course, don't last. A doctor suggested I try this more permanent type of injection. What is your feeling about this procedure? Is it similar to gel fillers, only with some fat removed from my body first? What is the downtime and the average cost?
Fat transfer can be a great way to permanently treat wrinkles.
Thanks for your question. As you know, injectables like Restylane and Juvederm are temporary fillers that the body resorbs over time. Fat transfer is a permanent way to perform the same job that temporary fillers do. Fat transfer can be a good second procedure for patients who have had fillers and liked the effect. The concept is to remove fat from a less desirable area (usually the abdomen or flanks) using liposuction and transfer it to an area that needs it, in your case the nasolabial folds, using lipoinjection. Challenges to the procedure include getting the fat to survive, not over- or under-correcting, and creating a smooth contour. Make sure you find a board-certified plastic surgeon who has experience with this technique, as there is a significant learning curve to produce good results, especially in the nasolabial folds. I hope this helps.
Steven Williams, MD
Juvéderm is a family of hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal fillers manufactured by Allergan. Different formulations address different concerns — Voluma for mid-face volume, Vollure for nasolabial folds, and Ultra/Ultra Plus for lips and perioral lines. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body that attracts and retains moisture, providing both volume and hydration. Results are immediate and typically last 6–18 months depending on the product and treatment area. HA fillers can be dissolved with hyaluronidase if needed.
When evaluating any cosmetic procedure, choosing a surgeon who operates in an accredited surgical facility is one of the most important safety decisions a patient can make.
