Time marches on, but fortunately for your appearance, there are many ways to slow its effects. Wrinkles and facial volume loss can be addressed with dermal fillers or fat grafting, two highly effective options for diminishing the effects of the aging process. These treatments can be paired with surgical procedures such as a facelift or performed as a solo treatment.
If you’re starting to see signs of aging, ask us if fillers or fat grafting could help you turn back the clock.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are one of the most popular options for restoring lost facial volume. With a few quick injections and no downtime, dermal fillers can smooth wrinkles, soften the skin, and restore a more youthful facial appearance.
At Ann Arbor Plastic Surgery, we primarily use hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers for facial rejuvenation. These fillers support aging skin by stimulating collagen production and replacing hyaluronic acid that has been lost to the aging process.
A typical filler treatment requires about 30 minutes. Patients can return to work the same day. Most patients experience minimal side effects including minor bruising, redness, or swelling. The body slowly metabolizes injected hyaluronic acid after treatment. To maintain results, patients should consider treatment with their selected filler every 3-6 months.
Fat grafting uses a patient’s own fat to restore youthful facial volume and contours. A small amount of fat is extracted, purified, and injected into the face. This transplanted fat will integrate with the facial tissues and provide long-lasting volume and shape to the face.
Fat tends to last longer than fillers, making fat grafting a more permanent solution than hyaluronic acid fillers.
Fat grafting is often paired with surgical treatments. Adding additional fat and volume to the face enhances the results of facelift surgery, for instance.
Fillers or Fat? Which Treatment Should I Choose?
Is fat grafting better than dermal fillers? Do fillers work better than fat? These are good questions, but unfortunately, they don’t have easy answers. When it comes to choosing the best option for restoring facial volume, the right answer depends on your goals, your anatomy, and other factors, such as how long you have available for downtime after your procedure. Fillers are best for a quick fix as they provide instant volume without any downtime. Fat lasts longer and is ideal for patients that want to avoid using synthetic products or coming in for regular treatments.
The good news is that both fat and fillers can provide dramatic rejuvenation for your facial appearance. Whichever you choose, we’re certain you’ll be delighted with your results. If you’re unsure which treatment option is best for you, one of our surgeons can help you narrow your options, directing you toward a solution that will best meet your treatment goals.
Contact Ann Arbor Plastic Surgery Today
Fat or fillers? Let’s work together to find your best option for facial rejuvenation. Learn more about your options by calling Ann Arbor Plastic Surgery at (734) 436-2186.
