Fat injection
What is fat injection?
Fat injection is a technique developed by Dr Coleman (known as Coleman fat transfer) and transfers fat from one area of the body to another. It is used to restore shape and definition, and to fill age related wrinkles and lines or hollows on the face.
Small amounts of fat are harvested from fat rich areas such as the buttock, thigh or abdomen, with minimal access liposuction techniques, where the scars are hidden in natural crease lines. The fat is then centrifuged and concentrated, then injected with a fine cannula into areas requiring treatment. The process pioneered by Dr Coleman has dramatically increased the survival of the fat once it has been injected. This procedure can also be used in combination with other cosmetic procedures such as a face-lift to enhance the result.
Why have it?
With age there is loss of tissue volume, particularly in the cheek area, giving a sunken look to the face. Fat injection provides volume and can reshape cheek hollows and augment the areas over the cheekbones to give a more youthful appearance. It is also beneficial when used to treat lines and depressions surrounding the mouth and chin.
Reasons not to have it
Aspirin increases the risk of bleeding by preventing blood from clotting. If you are taking aspirin, you will be asked to stop this for at least ten days before the procedure.
Further information
Consultation
Mr Roblin will need information on any previous cosmetic treatments you have had in the same area.
You will be asked about your general health, information about your medical history and any previous surgical procedures.
Procedure
In the buttock, thigh or abdomen, a small incision is made, carefully hidden in crease lines to reduce the possibility of scars. Fluid is first infiltrated followed by a suction cannula. With vacuum pressure attached and with a controlled mechanical disruption of the fat cells, the fat is removed. The incision sites are close with dissolving sutures.
The fat is then placed in a centrifuge, which concentrates the fat. This is then injected with a very fine cannula in tunnels that are carefully built up in layers to fill the hollow or wrinkle.
Anaesthetic
The operation is performed under local or general anaesthesia and takes 1 hour.
Length of stay
Day case or 1 night following the operation.
Risks/Possible complications
Early (1-2 days):
Frequent
- Bruising
- Swelling
Infrequent
- Bleeding (haematoma)
- Discomfort
- Temporary numbness
Later (after one week):
Infrequent
- Scars - unsightly
- Infection
- Permanent numbness
- Facial nerve injury
General anaesthetic
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Allergic reaction to drugs or tape
Recovery
Immediately after the operation
- You will feel bruised and sore and there will be some swelling
- Pain is usually moderate and controlled with standard painkillers
After return home
- Socialising with friends 1 week
- Return to work at 1-2 weeks
- Driving at 2-3 days
- Swelling and bruising up to 6-8 weeks
- Return to gym and strenuous activity 1 month