Fat Transfer vs. Dermal Fillers to Look Years Younger
When it comes to facial rejuvenation and restoration, patients have more options than ever before. In addition to Skin Better Science and SkinCeuticals skin care products that have hyaluronic acid in the ingredients to help plump the skin temporarily, candidates who want more fullness for a longer period of time can opt for Juvéderm or Restylane cosmetic dermal filler treatments or for something more permanent, a fat transfer. These procedures help erase the signs of aging by restoring fullness and bringing symmetry to your facial appearance. Both provide significant benefits to patients wishing to look like they did years ago but want to avoid the risks of surgery and a long downtime associated with a traditional face lift.
While both fat transfer and dermal fillers offer dramatic results with little to no downtime when provided by an experienced dermatologist injector, there are several differences between the two procedures. The procedure each patient chooses will depend on a number of factors including personal preference and desired results.
Fat Transfer
Referred to by some beauty experts as the dream surgery, a fat transfer involves removing fat using a small canula from one area of the body such as the abdomen, thighs, or buttocks. The fat is then purified and injected back into areas of the face or other parts of the body that are asymmetric. This procedure helps improve better body balance and symmetry, and most commonly is used to add fullness to the face. Due to the natural aging process, collagen and elastin breakdown, causing areas that hollow as we age, such as the cheeks and deep circles under the eyes. A fat transfer to the face results in a more youthful appearance, and will have you looking like the you you used to see in the mirror years ago.
A fat transfer is popular because it is a more natural approach to restoring facial fullness and it lasts longer than dermal fillers. Patients receiving a fat transfer get the added bonus of liposuction, as it is required to collect fat for the procedure.
Patients who opt for liposuction to remove fat from body areas with excess fat should consider a fat transfer at the same time. This combination is ideal for patients who want a safe way to achieve body symmetry and increase their breast size (up to one cup size) or rejuvenate their hands using their own body fat.
Dr. Eric Finzi is a board-certified derma surgeon specializing in liposuction and fat transfer surgery performed safely and effectively under local anesthesia. Dr. Finzi is also an accomplished artist and sculptor, showcasing his work in galleries and shows across the United States and internationally. His dual professions gives patients an advantage, as he skillfully sculpts bodies and faces with the tumescent liposuction technique and fat transfer procedure.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers such as Juvéderm, Restylane, and Radiesse add fullness and volume to facial features, and offer a wide range of treatment options that can be customized to your individual needs. These cosmetic treatments are ideal for candidates with mild to moderate lines and wrinkles. Although not as long-lasting as fat transfer, dermal fillers offer dramatic results when provided by a skilled dermatologist. Our board-certified dermatologists have advanced training in dermal filler injections and techniques, with high patient satisfaction rates.
During this popular cosmetic treatment, a practitioner injects special gels containing hyaluronic acid into the skin. The gel rebuilds collagen and increases fullness, plumping the skin and creating a fuller, more youthful appearance. Results are instant and last twelve months or more depending on the patient.
Choosing a Cosmetic Treatment
It’s important to note that no two people are the same. While one procedure might work best for one, it might not work for the other. It’s important to discuss your non-invasive treatment options with a qualified dermatologist. There are many products on the market, and our dermatology team is very knowledgeable about each one. This puts you in the best possible position to determine which procedure will provide the best results.
Board-Certified Cosmetic Treatment Provider
Chevy Chase Cosmetic Center offers fat transfer and liposuction performed by Eric Finzi, MD, PhD, the practice medical director and board-certified dermasurgeon. Dr. Angela Lotsikas and Dr. Mana Ogholikhan are highly skilled board-certified dermatologists who regularly treat patients with cosmetic dermal fillers. In addition, our experienced physician assistants Allison Wagner, PA-C and Mariella Purvis, PA-C treat patients with dermal fillers as well.
The Chevy Chase Cosmetic Center offers only high quality dermal fillers from some of the world’s most trusted brands. We have successfully treated thousands of patients in our office, and prefer to take a natural, gradual approach to treating patients with dermal fillers.
Want to see what a dermal filler treatment entails? Watch two videos, Ginny at 60 and Ginny at 65, an actual patient of Dr. Angela Lotsikas who was treated with Juvéderm and Botox Cosmetic, and Allison Wagner, PA-C treating Rona, a 66 year-old with Restylane Silk dermal filler and Dysport wrinkle reducer.
Please contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our trusted providers.
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