Lipofilling

Lipofilling otherwise known as fat transfer, can either be done on its own or in combination with other surgical procedures such as face and neck lift. Done on its own it is possible to perform the procedure under local anesthetic as a day case, but is usually performed under general anesthetic.

Small incisions, less than 1 cm, are made in either the abdomen or inner thigh from where the fat will be harvested. This is done using a low pressure liposuction technique. Small dressings are placed on these wounds and occasionally an absorbable suture is used to close them. The fat that has been harvested from this area is re-injected into the required areas of the face again using tiny 3 – 4 mm. stab incisions which are covered with a Steri-strip sticking plaster.

Duration of the operation:

The operation for lipofilling alone usually takes between 45 minutes and 1 hour.

Post operative care:

You will expect swelling and bruises. These are all normal and should be taken cared of. You will be instructed to take all of your medications on time, keep your treatment are immobile and allow proper healing. This includes no high impact exercise or activities for approximately 2-3 weeks, depending upon the extent of the surgery.

Recovery period:

The area is usually swollen after the treatment and sometimes bruised, a cold pack, i.e. a bag filled with ice can be soothing. The swelling and bluish colour gradually clears up a few days after the treatment. With a reasonable skin concealing cream product, you can disguise any skin discoloration, allowing you to resume your social life more quickly

Possible risk and complications:

The risks for fat grafting are asymmetry, infection, fatty cysts, hematoma, fat embolism, seroma, permanent discoloration from the bruises and others.

Anesthesia used:

Lipostructure takes place under local anaesthesia. Both the donor and recipient zones are treated with an anaesthetic (liquid form) that also prevents bleeding

Hospital admission:

This procedure may be performed in the cosmetic surgeon’s office-based facility, an outpatient surgery center, or at a hospital. This procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis

Preparation before Surgery

• Assessment of the medical history (any allergies, serious medical condition and all medications taken both prescribed and non-prescribed), physical examination, and laboratory tests will be performed during consultation.
• Blood and urine samples will be collected for routine preoperative laboratory tests.
• Smoking must be avoided for about 3-4 weeks prior to surgery, as nicotine interferes with circulation and will greatly affect healing process.
• You will likely to be asked to stop drinking alcohol, a week before the surgery and throughout your recovery period.
• Avoid taking any medications such as hormones, anticoagulants, anabolic steroids and supplements at least 4-6 weeks to prevent complicating medical factors prior to surgery. Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding.