Facial Fat Transfer vs Fillers

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Over the age of 30, the natural ageing process begins to impact the appearance of our facial features. Collagen is the key protein responsible for maintaining the skin’s elasticity. When levels of collagen begin to decline, several recognised consequences may lead us to appear older than we actually are. What often begins as fine lines and wrinkles eventually progresses to the development of sagging skin under the influence of gravity. When self-confidence is affected, people begin to look for ways to achieve a more youthful-looking appearance. Early signs of ageing may not require invasive facelift surgery. Ideal treatments at this stage often include fat transfer to the face or dermal fillers.

Both fat transfer and dermal fillers have pros and cons. If you are keen to explore the differences between them, we recommend consulting with a consultant plastic surgeon at the Centre for Surgery. Here, we discuss the benefits of fat transfer vs. fillers.

What is fat transfer to the face?

Understanding the benefits of fat transfer or fillers requires first understanding what each treatment entails. Fat transfer, or fat grafting or lipofilling, is a two-step procedure. The first part of any fat transfer procedure involves removing fat from another part of the body, such as the inner thighs, abdomen or buttocks. Before the fat can be re-injected, it must be processed to remove impurities, OmniSculpt – Toning/Sculpting which is often performed in a centrifuge. The prepared fat is then injected into targeted areas of the face. Fat transfer is known for producing natural-looking results. As we age, we begin to lose volume in certain areas of the face, such as the cheeks, and this may be accompanied by an increase in saggy skin. Fat transfer to the face is particularly effective for:

Unlike facelift surgery, which is more suitable for extensive signs of ageing, facial fat transfer can be performed in younger age groups as a minimally invasive alternative.

What are dermal fillers?

Dermal fillers contain hyaluronic acid and are used to treat early signs of ageing. Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally within the body, and the risk of allergic reactions is, therefore, minimal. For people who may not be keen on the idea of surgery, fillers are an excellent alternative for achieving anti-ageing effects without any downtime. Compared to fat transfer, dermal fillers are not a permanent treatment; however, results can last over 12 months, depending on the specific treatment performed. Dermal filler treatment is an excellent non-surgical alternative to improve early signs of facial ageing. Dermal fillers can be used for many areas of the face, including:

There is a wide variety of different brands of dermal fillers. Here at Centre for Surgery, our specialists are experts in the use of Juvederm, Belotero and Restylane.

How do you choose between fat transfer and fillers?

Face fat transfer and dermal fillers are both designed to achieve similar results. Although face fat transfer is a minimally invasive surgical procedure, dermal fillers are a non-surgical treatment. When considering whether to choose fat transfer or fillers, it is essential to be aware of the benefits of each treatment.

Fat grafting involves using your own body fat to enhance facial features without the need for artificial implants. Fat transfer to the face produces long-lasting results compared with dermal fillers.