For many people, the most obvious signs of the aging process are reflected in their facial appearance. Although the progression of this process varies with each individual, one very common effect is the thinning or loss of facial fat tissue.

The fat tissue underlying facial skin serves the critical functions of providing support against the downward tug of gravity as well as lending shape, definition, and youthful skin tautness. When this tissue diminishes due to aging - or in some cases, dramatic weight loss - the result can be the appearance of hollowed cheeks, temples, and jawline.
 

A powerful tool for restoring and sculpting lost fat tissues exists: Autologous Fat Transplantation (AFT). AFT consists of harvesting small amounts of fat tissue from another portion of a patient’s body (often from the abdominal or buttock areas) and using it to restore youthful facial contours and fullness. AFT helps restore a natural balance between the amount of facial skin and subcutaneous fat, promoting a more youthful fat distribution. When performed early in the aging process, AFT helps support overlying skin against gravity,

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erasing telltale signs of aging. In later years, AFT can restore youthful shape, contour and skin tautness. AFT is often performed in conjunction with a comprehensive facelift procedure (such as the SMAS technique) to achieve maximum aesthetic benefits and longevity of effects.

Because the transplanted tissue is the patient’s own, there is no risk of tissue rejection. Another fortuitous consequence of using a patient’s own tissue in this facial rejuvenation procedure is its longevity. Aesthetic improvement usually lasts at least five years, with many patients reporting excellent results for nine years or more. AFT patients typically report that they look better and healthier to themselves. Due to the technique’s subtlety, loved ones, friends, and business acquaintances invariably note a patient’s newly robust and energetic appearance, but typically are at a loss to explain their observations.

Postoperative recovery may entail a mild amount of bruising - approximately 15-20% of patients bruise after surgery. Initial swelling can be considerable due to the nature of this technique, but is easily managed. Most patients feel comfortable returning to work or other social activities after ten days, but are often out of the house with sunglasses at about five days.