Facial Fat Grafting in Farmington Hills

What fat grafting addresses

Facial fat grafting addresses the volume loss that comes with aging, restoring contour to areas such as the cheeks, temples and under-eye hollows. Because it uses your own fat cells, it offers a natural alternative to synthetic fillers.

It can also be used to plump thin lips, fill deep nasolabial folds, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and improve facial symmetry. Treatment is planned around your specific concerns.

How the procedure is performed

Fat is harvested from another area of your body, purified, and injected into the areas of the face that need volume. Fat tissue contains stem cells, which may also improve skin quality. Fat grafting can be combined with other facial plastic surgery.

Compared with fillers

Because the procedure uses your own fat cells, there is no risk of allergic reaction, and results can last significantly longer than temporary fillers. Cost varies with the extent of the procedure and the number of areas treated. Fat grafting usually costs more than fillers at first, and its longevity can make it more cost-effective over time.

Recovery and longevity

Recovery takes one to two weeks. Results typically last for years, and some of the transferred fat becomes permanent. Some fat may be reabsorbed, and you need enough donor fat for the procedure. Dr. Hardaway discusses each of these points at consultation so your expectations are realistic.

Other fat transfer procedures

• Brazilian Butt Lift — fat is harvested from areas such as the abdomen or thighs and transferred to the buttocks.
• Fat transfer to the breast — your own fat is used instead of implants for modest enhancement of volume and shape.

Choosing a surgeon

Dr. Michelle Hardaway has extensive experience in facial fat grafting and fat transfer procedures, and takes a personalized approach to each patient’s concerns and goals.