Fat injection (also known as autologous fat transplantation) transfers fat from one part of the body to another to re-shape your face which usually results in diminishing frown lines, crow’s feet, and “smile lines.” This will give you a more youthful appearance and provide improved definition to areas like your cheeks and chin.
None of us can stop facial aging from occurring as changes inevitably affect your skin and the deeper soft tissues of the face.
Some of your factors that influence this unwanted process include:
- Your skin type.
- Overexposure to UV light.
- Your daily skincare routine.
- Your genetics and relatives’ history of aging.
- Daily eating habits (too many processed foods, smoking, drinking, etc.)
- Repeating certain facial expressions.
Although this is a common surgical procedure, there is a recovery time that’s inherent in any surgery. Commonly, you can expect some feelings of recovery to occur within 48 hours of the procedure. Normally, and every patient responds differently, you should expect a full recovery within four to six weeks after your procedure. With more intense procedures, or in certain cases, full recovery may take up to four months.
Commonly you should see most of the swelling and bruises at the injection site disappear after about 2 – 3 weeks. Your cosmetic surgeon will prescribe antibiotics to guard against any post-surgery infection, and visible bruising and swelling in the face will typically resolve themselves within 2 weeks following your fat transfer procedure.
It’s important to note, however, that fat transfer recovery time varies from patient to patient, as everyone responds differently. Most patients should arrange to take at least 7-10 days off from work and attending any social activities. Your initial healing may take only a few weeks, but after that, the swelling and healing will go on until your final results become apparent.
Your surgeon will ask you to avoid vigorous exercise or strenuous exertion such as lifting or straining for a minimum of three weeks following your surgery. Make sure you plan to take it “easy,” and even possibly get someone to help you during the first week or two. This is not usually necessary but could be of help. Also, do not massage, rub or place any tension on the incisions for a minimum of 4 weeks after your surgery.
Your qualified Boston or Wellesley cosmetic surgeon, and your surgical team, will make sure that you know definitively what to expect after your procedure, and follow your post-op period closely.
Details On Recovering From Your Fat Injection Surgery.
Fat grafting surgery is always an outpatient procedure that is performed using only local anesthesia, and in most cases takes one hour to complete.
Once your procedure is done, and you are home from your fat injection surgery, here are details on what you can expect:
During the first week after surgery, there commonly is swelling and bruising. These conditions can occur both in your face and in, and around, the area from which the fat was harvested.
To ease any mild swelling and pain, you can:
- Keep your treatment area elevated a bit.
- Use an ice compress to ease pain and swelling.
- Take pain medication but make sure it is prescribed or recommended by your cosmetic surgeon.
During the second to third week after your surgery, you’ll see a reduction in bruising and swelling. This may occur between seven to ten days after your fat injection procedure. During the second week, most of your bruising will usually have gone away, although you still may have some slight swelling.
During this period, many patients feel that they are ready to return to work but remember that every patient’s recovery time will be different. To recover without incident, always check with your surgeon before returning to work or resuming your normal activities. Your cosmetic surgeon and staff will always make sure that you do all that’s necessary to recover quickly, and without incident
Seven Proven Tips to Recover Quickly and Satisfactorily From your Fat Injection Procedure.
Fat injection cosmetic procedures are a proven, safe, and effective treatment. Your satisfaction with your results, however, will depend on your recovery period and making sure you follow all your doctor’s post-op orders.
Below are some tips to ensure the safest and best way to get the results you are looking for:
- Don’t move excessively or massage the treated area for at least a few days after the procedure.
- Smoking is most definitely not recommended and should not be done.
- Try to sleep on your back and keep your face from pushing on your pillow.
- Avoid all strenuous activities until your doctor tells you it’s safe to continue them.
- Stay as hydrated as possible.
- Keep your weight stable, as major weight loss will reduce the amount of fat in your face.
- Eat more healthy fats in your diet, for example, avocados, salmon, almonds & coconut oil.
It’s Known That Fat Injection Surgery is Generally Very Safe, But What Are Possible Side Effects To Look For.
Fat Injection surgery is widely used, and almost always a safe and effective treatment that gets clients the look they desire. It’s especially important to the surgical team that you end with satisfying results, but this outcome will depend a lot on your recovery period.
Some side effects you want to be on the lookout for are:
- Minor temporary numbness.
- Minor bruising and swelling.
- Small scars that will fade over time.
- Loss of some fat from the injected area itself.
Any surgical procedure can have unwanted effects, so make sure you alert your surgical team immediately if you have any concerns about your recovery, no matter how small they may seem. Effective communication between you, and your surgical team, will be invaluable to making a full, and satisfactory recovery.
I Am Moving Forward With My Fat Injection Surgery, What Should I Do First?
Do your part to make sure that your board-certified Boston or Wellesley cosmetic surgeon has the experience, and history to help ensure the results you desire. The cosmetic surgeons and their team at Wellesley Cosmetic Surgery have over 20 years of experience in these procedures, and well over 3500 satisfied and delighted patients. Call them first, so you can move ahead safely, with professionals that are empathetic, knowledgeable, and be by your side every step of the way.