How Is Facial Fat Grafting Performed?
Dec 07, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Ruizhi
Introduction
In general, there is a risk of infection during surgery, which typically manifests 5–7 days postoperatively; prompt medical attention is required if infection occurs. Additionally, the relatively large potential wound surface and excessive cavities resulting from suction can lead to blood seepage. Furthermore, the procedure may cause local skin necrosis or result in uneven skin contour.
Autologous fat facial grafting is a relatively common cosmetic procedure. Facial imperfections—such as an underdeveloped forehead or a weak chin—can be effectively corrected using this technique. Its greatest advantage lies in the absence of immune rejection, since the transplanted fat is harvested from the patient’s own body. As a result, autologous fat grafting typically yields excellent and natural-looking aesthetic outcomes. Below, we address the question: “How is autologous fat facial grafting performed?”
How Is Autologous Fat Facial Grafting Performed?
Surgical complications may include infection, which typically manifests 5–7 days postoperatively and requires prompt medical attention. Additionally, extensive tissue trauma and numerous residual cavities following fat aspiration may lead to localized bleeding. Skin necrosis at the donor or recipient site is also possible. Furthermore, contour irregularities (e.g., unevenness or lumpiness) may occur, though these usually resolve spontaneously within 3–6 months. If persistent, corrective intervention—including hospital-based treatment—may be necessary. Patients are advised to consult qualified plastic surgeons at accredited medical institutions.
Additional Information: Key Considerations for Fat Grafting
1. Maintain Wound Hygiene and Avoid Water Exposure
Facial cleansing should be avoided immediately after fat grafting. Keep the injection sites dry; when cleaning the face, carefully avoid the puncture points—use a cotton swab moistened with water instead. Accidental water exposure increases the risk of postoperative infection.
2. Avoid Saunas and Facial Massage
During the early phase of fat graft survival, elevated temperatures are detrimental. Therefore, both cold and heat application (e.g., ice packs or warm compresses) must be strictly avoided. Saunas, steam baths, facial massage, and any local pressure on the treated area should be prohibited for at least one month postoperatively.
3. Ensure Adequate Nutritional Support
Hypovolemia compromises tissue perfusion. In such cases, insufficient delivery of oxygen-carrying red blood cells (ACME-TE-A likely refers to erythrocytes or oxygenated hemoglobin) reduces tissue oxygen partial pressure, leading to cellular hypoxia. This impairs cellular metabolism, function, and structural integrity—and diminishes local nutrient absorption capacity, thereby compromising fat graft survival.
4. Sleep Supine (on Your Back)
Side-sleeping is discouraged: first, because it may cause fat displacement toward the unaffected side, resulting in facial asymmetry; second, because pressure on the surgical site may exacerbate swelling. Patients should sleep supine during recovery.
5. Avoid Vigorous Aerobic Exercise
Aerobic activity promotes lipolysis. To prevent rapid resorption of grafted fat, patients should avoid full-body aerobic exercise for 3–6 months postoperatively—until the rate of fat resorption naturally declines. Otherwise, the volume of transplanted fat may significantly decrease.
The above outlines the procedure and essential considerations for autologous fat facial grafting. We hope this information proves helpful.
