Facial implants may enhance structural definition in areas such as the chin or cheeks. Dr. Mao assesses the relationship between facial features before recommending an approach.
Whether we notice it or not, full cheeks are often a part of how we judge a person's face. Cheek implants can have a major impact on the appearance and self-confidence of a person whose cheeks have thinned or sunken due to age, illness or other causes. Likewise, the chin helps provide harmony to the facial features. Patients often seek a smaller nose when, in fact, a chin augmentation provides a balance to the facial features.
What are the benefits of facial implants?
Implant sizes and shapes to augment the cheek and chin areas are tailored to each patient's desired appearance. The implants are placed during an outpatient procedure under local or general anesthesia, which usually takes less than an hour to perform. Your doctor will make the necessary incisions in inconspicuous locations to allow for minimal scarring.
Fat grafting, also known as autologous fat transfer or liposculpture, is a surgical procedure that involves restoring lost volume in the face with the patient's own fat, taken from the abdomen, thighs or other areas. This procedure is effective in treating sunken cheeks, facial lines, acne scars and other areas of lost volume that have developed as a result of aging, sun damage and other conditions.
Unlike fillers and other volume-enhancing treatments, fat grafts are taken from the patient's own body, and as a result cannot cause an allergic reaction. The fat is naturally accepted by the body. Autologous fat grafts also last longer than synthetic materials.
During the fat grafting procedure, fat is harvested from the donor area by inserting a cannula and suctioning out the fat, similar to liposuction. This is done under local anesthesia to minimize any potential discomfort. The harvested fat is then purified so that only the fat cells are grafted. Once the fat is ready to be placed, it is injected into the targeted area through a cannula until the desired appearance is achieved.
This procedure is performed on an outpatient basis in your doctor's office or a surgical facility. Because of the different aspects involved, treatment time can vary significantly depending on each patient's individual procedure.
Results and Recovery
Patients may experience mild swelling and bruising after the fat grafting procedure, which can be minimized by icing the area. Fat grafts usually last longer than fillers and other volumizing treatments, and are considered safe for most patients since no foreign material is being injected into the body.*
Risks of Fat Grafting
While fat grafting is considered safe for most patients, there are certain risks associated with any type of procedure. Some of these risks may include:
Infection
Bleeding
Scarring
Nerve damage
Persistent lumps and bumps
Under or overcorrection
These risks can be minimized by choosing an experienced doctor to perform your procedure, and following his/her instructions after surgery. To learn more about the fat grafting procedure, call us today to schedule a consultation and find out whether or not this procedure is right for you.
*Individual results may vary.
Individual results and recovery vary. Your consultation provides guidance specific to your needs.
Explore published patient cases related to this treatment at Mao Facial Plastic Surgery. Some cases include multiple procedures; the original case titles and details are retained. Individual results vary.
Get to know the surgeon behind Mao Facial Plastic Surgery.
Dr. Johnny Mao’s practice focuses on facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, with surgical and non-surgical options tailored to individual concerns. A consultation is the opportunity to discuss your features, your goals, and the care that may be appropriate for you.
Visit our Orange office to ask questions about treatment options, recovery, and follow-up, and learn more about Dr. Mao’s background and approach to care.
Injectables, fillers, and laser treatments remain available for patients exploring non-surgical care. Your consultation can help clarify which options fit your goals.
Welcoming patients from Branford, Cheshire, East Haven, Fairfield, Milford, North Haven, Orange, Shelton, Southport, Weston, Westport, Wilton, Woodbridge, New Canaan, Darien, and surrounding Connecticut communities.
Dr. Mao will listen to your concerns, examine your facial anatomy, and discuss surgical and non-surgical options suited to your goals. You will leave with a clear understanding of what to expect.
Facial plastic surgery focuses on procedures of the face, head, and neck — both cosmetic procedures like facelift and rhinoplasty and reconstructive treatments for functional concerns.
Recovery varies by procedure and by patient. Some non-surgical treatments involve little or no downtime. After surgery, the time needed to return to work or routine activities may range from several days to several weeks, while swelling, incision healing, and final results can continue to improve for weeks or months. During your consultation, Dr. Mao will explain the expected recovery timeline, activity restrictions, and follow-up care for the procedure being considered.
Good candidates are in general good health, have realistic expectations, and have specific concerns they would like addressed. A consultation is the best way to find out.
Begin Your Personalized Consultation
Meet with Dr. Johnny Mao to discuss your aesthetic goals and available facial rejuvenation options.
