When Will Swelling Reside After a Fat Transfer to Face?
You may be considering a fat transfer to the face for common issues like volume loss and wrinkles. This procedure is relatively simple and comes with high success rates. But before you decide to undergo surgery, it’s important to understand potential side effects such as swelling and inflammation.
Below, Dr. Brandon-Dzung Mang provides information about fat grafting and what you can do to speed up the healing process. Call Rejuve Aesthetic Surgery for a consultation in Tampa, FL, and see why so many patients trust our team with their cosmetic surgery needs.
What areas are improved with fat grafting?
Volume loss is a common concern as we age. It’s most noticeable around areas like the eyes, cheeks, lips, and jawline. Fat grafting takes excess tissue from another area of the body and injects it into these thinner or hollowed-out places. The result is a rejuvenated appearance with fewer wrinkles and lines.
How fat transfers are performed
A fat transfer is a two-fold procedure. First, fat must be removed from a donor site like the abdomen, hips, or flanks through liposuction. Once the fat has been harvested, it’s purified and injected into the target areas using a syringe. Dr. Mang is very precise when performing fat grafting to ensure the best possible results. We take into account your specific goals and facial proportions to provide natural-looking outcomes.
What recovery is like after fat grafting
Patients are given specific instructions on caring for the donor area and injection sites during recovery. Plan to rest and recover for 1 – 2 weeks – Dr. Mang will schedule follow-up appointments in Tampa, FL to monitor your progress and ensure healing is going as planned.
Side effects after fat grafting are temporary and can be managed with medications. These may include:
- Swelling and inflammation
- Bruising
- Redness
- Tenderness
These side effects should be resolved within 2 – 3 weeks of your procedure. Results should appear natural and last for many years with proper care.
When is swelling a bad sign?
Some swelling and redness is normal almost immediately following surgery. However, if you experience inflammation that worsens or does not improve after a few days, call Rejuve Aesthetic Surgery. Excessive swelling could be a sign of an infection and should be assessed by a medical professional.
How to speed up the healing process
Rejuve Aesthetic Surgery hopes to prepare each patient for a smooth and successful recovery. Here is how you can encourage natural healing at home after fat grafting:
- Elevate your head while you sleep: This reduces swelling and inflammation around the injection sites. Resting on your back with an extra pillow or two should do the trick.
- Apply a cool compress: Cover an ice pack with a clean towel and apply it to the treatment areas for 10 – 15 minutes at a time. Repeat this as often as needed.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing: Avoid tight or constricting clothing that could put excess pressure on the surgical sites.
Ask about fat transfer surgery and recovery
Fat grafting does provide wonderful results for issues like wrinkles and volume loss, but patients should have realistic expectations going into surgery. Swelling is a common side effect that should gradually improve over time. However, if you experience excessive swelling or other concerns, don’t hesitate to call Rejuve Aesthetic Surgery in Tampa, FL. Dr. Brandon-Dzung Mang is happy to address your questions and help you along the road to recovery.