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Micro-Lipo Injection
Since the beginning of civilization, people have tried in various
ways to improve their appearance. Down through the ages, disfigurement
of the skin has been particularly distressful for many people. Today,
because of modern technology, there are several excellent procedures
available to correct skin defects such as deep furrows and wrinkles
on the face. Depressions on other areas of the body can also be corrected
through one such procedure called autologous (from the same individual)
fat transplantation. This procedure, which is sometimes called "fat
transfer," is currently being used to re-contour the face, enhance
the cheek and chin and correct facial or body deformities.
Before Surgery
Prior to surgery, a complete medical history is taken in order to
evaluate the general health of the patient. A careful examination
is also conducted. The physician describes the type of anesthesia
to be used, the procedure, what results might realistically be expected
and possible risks and complications. Photographs may be taken before
and after surgery to determine the amount of improvement. Pre-operative
instructions may include the elimination of certain drugs which contain
aspirin in order to minimize the possibility of excess bleeding. Antibiotics
may be prescribed for a few days before surgery to prevent infection.
The areas to be worked on are carefully marked.
The Procedure
Fat transplantation can be performed in a physician's office, an outpatient
surgical facility or a hospital depending on the physician's and patient's
preference. Medication to relax the patient may be administered prior
to surgery. Both the donor site (area from which fat is taken) and
the recipient site (area to be treated) are anesthetized. A needle
attached to a syringe is inserted into the donor site in a location
which has a thick layer of fat such as the thigh or buttocks. Fat
cells, which are aspirated or drawn into the syringe are carefully
re-injected into the recipient site.
The process is repeated until the desired amount of fat has been transferred
and the defect corrected. A pressure bandage is applied to the donor
site and sometimes to the recipient site to prevent blood clots and
swelling.
Following Surgery
There is minimal pain connected with the procedure and any discomfort
is controlled with oral medication. Antibiotics may be prescribed
in order to prevent infection. Patients are up and around the day
of surgery. However, strenuous activities should be avoided for some
time. The physician determines when normal activities can be resumed
based on the extent of surgery and the patient's healing process.
Although complications are rare, there are certain inherent risks
connected with every surgical procedure which should be thoroughly
discussed with the physician. Problems of rejection or allergic reactions
are not factors, because the fat is transplanted within the same body.
Scarring from injections is minimal, because they are made within
the natural creases of the body whenever possible. Patients can minimize
complications by carefully following directions given by the physician.
If you would like more information about Fat Transplantation, please
contact our office for an appointment.
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