Fat Transfer
in Naples, Fort Myers, & Bonita Springs, FL
With age, we all lose a degree of subcutaneous fat from various parts of the body. One of the most troublesome, according to statistics, is the decrease in fat volume on the face. In the past several years, volume loss has been corrected by inserting synthetic fillers into the soft tissue of the cheeks, temples, and other areas. More recently, physicians like Dr. Flaharty have begun treating patients more organically, using meticulous fat transfer techniques. Call (239) 415-7576 today to schedule a personalized fat transfer consultation and learn whether you are a candidate!
What is fat transfer?
Fat transfer, or fat injections, is exactly as it sounds. The process of facial rejuvenation involves harvesting fat cells from one part of the body and then transplanting them through a strategic injection technique, into the face to restore volume where necessary. Dr. Patrick Flaharty refers to fat transfer as 3D rejuvenation because the small deposits of fat will be able to rejuvenate the face with more volume.
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Benefits of 3D Rejuvenation
Autologous fat transfer is a natural alternative to synthetic dermal fillers for smoothing out the signs of aging and replacing volume that has been lost over time. More importantly, fat transfer with Adivive™ delivers a more natural aesthetic result that many patients may prefer. Fat from your own body offers notable advantages to the use of dermal fillers for facial augmentation. The primary reason why more men and women are choosing this treatment is that results last much longer than synthetic fillers; several years as opposed to months.
What is the Adivive™ Fat Transfer System?
The Adivive™ Fat Transfer System is unique in that it enables a higher quality injectable and offers a more predictable and reproducible treatment. Adivive’s specialized weighted-mesh filter, combined with its high G-force/RPM centrifugation, helps maximize the concentration of adipocytes by “squeezing” out fluids including blood, infiltration fluids, and free oils. This process has been shown to yield higher-volume survival rates of the transferred fat tissue.
PATIENT TESTIMONIAL
“Dr. Flaharty and his staff are truly wonderful. They are extraordinarily nice and very skilled. My procedure went very well with beautiful results. I would highly recommend Dr. Flaharty and Azul Cosmetics.” ~ Judy”To Read More Reviews, Click Here!
Fat Grafting Candidates
Facial fat grafting is appropriate for just about anyone who would be interested in dermal fillers, due to the fact that each type of treatment is commonly used for similar concerns. Some of the corrections that are possible with fat injections include decreased lines and wrinkles, loss of volume in the lips or cheeks, and visible acne scarring. Fatty tissue is also used to fill in the tiny lines that form around the mouth, sunken temples and hollows under the eyes, and forehead lines.
What areas of the body can you do a fat transfer?
One of the important aspects of fat transfer procedures is that there be sufficient fatty tissue from which cells can be harvested. Common harvest sites include the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks. Furthermore, fat transfer treatments may be performed to augment areas such as the lips, cheeks, and even the backs of the hands. In some practices, fat is also used in procedures such as the Brazilian Butt Lift, developed to add volume to the backside. In our offices that serve Fort Myers, Naples, Bonita Springs, and other regions of Southwest Florida, a fat transfer focuses on facial rejuvenation.
Facial Fat Transfer Before And After

How is a Fat Transfer Procedure Performed?
There are three basic steps to the fat transfer procedure. These include:
SEE FOR YOURSELF


SEE FOR YOURSELF
This patient is a patient in her early seventies who had a full face CO2 laser resurfacing and a full face fat augmentation.
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Recovery After Fat Augmentation
There are two aspects of recovery to the fat transfer procedure. All in all, patients are encouraged to prepare for two weeks of noticeable swelling and bruising after their procedure.
Liposuction recovery may involve wearing a compression garment to prevent fluid accumulation. Because such a minimal amount of fat is extracted for facial rejuvenation, drains are not usually necessary after liposuction. Though soreness and tenderness are mild, bruising may appear significant at first, and will gradually diminish over two to three weeks.
Facial recovery also revolves around the decrease in swelling and bruising. Some patients are surprised by the amount of swelling they notice during the first few weeks of recovery. Swelling doesn’t indicate trauma to facial tissues, it is a reflection of the excess of fat cells that have been introduced into the face. This is necessary because some of the fat injected will naturally absorb.
Schedule a Fat Transfer Consultation with Dr. Flaharty!
Curious about how fat transfer with Dr. Patrick Flaharty can help you look your best? Request a consultation using our online form, or call the office directly at (239) 415-7576. Our practice serves Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, Naples, and the surrounding areas of Florida.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does facial fat grafting work?
Facial fat grafting involves harvesting fat, purifying it, and carefully injecting it into areas of the face that need volume or rejuvenation.
Which areas of the face can benefit from fat transfer to the face?
Common areas include cheeks, under-eyes, lips, nasolabial folds, and jawline to restore youthful volume and contour.
Am I a good candidate for a facial fat transfer procedure?
Ideal candidates are healthy adults looking to restore facial volume, smooth wrinkles, or enhance facial contours without synthetic fillers.
Where is the fat taken from for facial fat transfer?
Fat is usually harvested from areas with extra fat, such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks, then purified for injection into the face.
Is facial fat transfer safe?
Yes, facial fat transfer is considered safe because it uses your own fat, reducing the risk of allergic reactions or rejection.
How long does the facial fat grafting procedure take?
The procedure typically takes 1 to 3 hours, depending on the areas being treated and the amount of fat transferred.
Does fat transfer to the face hurt?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort. Local anesthesia or sedation is used to ensure the procedure is comfortable.
What is the recovery time after a facial fat transfer procedure?
Recovery is usually 1 to 2 weeks, with mild swelling or bruising. Most people can return to normal activities within a few days.
How long do the results of facial fat grafting last?
Results can last several years, and in many cases, the transferred fat becomes permanent once it successfully integrates.
Will I need multiple sessions for facial fat transfer?
Some patients may require a touch-up session to achieve optimal volume, depending on how much fat is absorbed initially.
How natural do results look with facial fat transfer?
Because the procedure uses your own fat, results typically look natural and restore youthful contours without appearing overfilled.
Are there any risks or side effects of facial fat transfer?
Side effects may include swelling, bruising, temporary unevenness, or minor fat absorption, but serious complications are rare.
Can facial fat transfer be combined with other procedures?
Yes, it can be combined with facelifts, eyelid surgery, or non-surgical treatments for enhanced facial rejuvenation.
How much does a facial fat transfer procedure cost?
Costs vary depending on the areas treated and the complexity of the procedure. A consultation can provide a personalized estimate.
How do I prepare for facial fat grafting?
Preparation usually includes avoiding blood-thinning medications, staying hydrated, and discussing any medical conditions with your provider.
Will I see immediate results after fat transfer to the face?
Yes, initial results are visible immediately, but final results appear after swelling subsides in a few weeks.
Is facial fat transfer better than dermal fillers?
Facial fat transfer offers a more permanent solution using natural tissue, while dermal fillers are temporary and may need regular maintenance.