LIPOFILLING

Is it for you?

Lipofilling is the best treatment for the loss of facial volume caused by aging. Adding autologous fat cells not only restores the fullness of youth to the face but also improves the quality of the skin, which becomes better vascularized and less wrinkled.

Technique

After one or more consultations and photo examination with the patient, we determine whether lipofilling is the most appropriate treatment or not. If it is, we then determine which area will be used to collect fat tissue. Fat is generally removed by liposuction from parts of the body where it is stubborn and unwanted ; the outer contours of the thighs, the abdomen, ect. It is then centrifuged, purified and repositioned in minuscule portions to gradually recreate a youthfully formed face. The transferred fat is integrated so perfectly and naturally that the patient soon forgets that it is there.

Procedure

Reshaping the face is a very detailed process which requires a perfect understanding of anatomy and outstanding artistic skills. It is a short procedure which is carried out under local or light general anaesthetic skills. Fat grafting can be carried out at the same time as a face lift if the surgeon feels that the desired remodelling necessitates a combination of the two techniques.

During the lipofilling procedure, I first remove the fat from the area selected with micro incisions that are later closed with skin glue and dressing. I then transfer the fat to the face using a thin cannula passing through a needle point. The transferred fat is introduced methodically and very precisely to restore volume to certain parts of the face and structure to the bony contours. Once the fat has been transferred, the micro openings are closed with a small amount of glue and a cream and cooling mask are placed on the face to prevent bruises and swelling.

After the operation

The level of swelling depends on the number of areas treated. Patients should expect to be out of circulation for at least one week before they can go back to work wearing light makeup. Patients will also need to avoid sun exposure for three weeks. There is usually no pain at all, although the swelling often gives a sensation of discomfort. The final result becomes permanent after two months.

Results

Fat grafting is a major development as it introduces a dimension which was formely missing from reconstructive and cosmetic surgery ; the ability to restore volume and contours. It also has a very positive effect on the complexion since it improves the circulation in the skin. The final results show a clear improvement of skin quality: fresher, more glowy, and smoother. This technique allows me to treat patients for whom a face lift is not suitable, as well as to incorporate restructuring into the face-lift procedure. The number of possible combinations is growing all the time, as is the degree of individualization and refinement that our rejuvenation programmes can offer.
I have been carrying out this procedure for some time now, and can confirm that contours recreated in this way are extremely satisfying and long-lasting.