Micro fat transfer in San Diego is one of the most popular and common procedures we perform here at Carmel Valley Facial Plastic Surgery. Our practice is among the busiest fat transfer centers in the world. Having performed over 4,000 fat transfers, it is essentially the cornerstone of our facial rejuvenation program.
The main reason for this is that it is extremely effective and the results are permanent. Dr. Karam’s repeated successful outcomes are a result of his artistry, meticulous technique, and experience with this procedure. We perform this procedure alone or in conjunction with other facial rejuvenation procedures such as facelifts and eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) in our private operating room. The key to success is highly based on the surgeon’s experience and technical abilities. Dr. Karam is among the most experienced facial fat transfer surgeons in La Jolla and throughout San Diego, not to mention the rest of the country.
The Problem
As we age, the fat pads in our face—which give us a soft, youthful fullness—diminish. This causes the face to look deflated and drawn when compared to the full roundness of a younger face. Especially around the eyes, hollows and contour changes leave the face looking older and more tired.
Volume loss is one of the earliest signs of aging. It starts to occur in the mid '30s and continues to progress. Until recently, this component of facial aging was overlooked. We are now realizing what a major contribution volume makes to looking younger, healthier, and more energetic.
The Treatment
One of the oldest dictums in plastic surgery is “replace like with like.” When it comes to facial volume loss, our micro fat transfer in San Diego is the treatment of choice. In the comfort of our sterile operating room, we use a gentle liposuction technique to prepare the fat for transfer. Then the fat is injected into the desired portion of the face, using a micro injection technique.
This approach allows extremely small parcels of fat to be placed into multiple layers of the face. This maximizes potential survival and allows for optimal aesthetic outcome.
In Dr. Karam’s practice, this is done most commonly around the hollows and grooves of the lower eyelid region and cheeks. Another common area is around the mouth and jawline. It can also be done throughout the entire face, giving it a natural rejuvenation.
Expected Outcomes
The long-term efficacy of transferred fat has been documented in numerous studies, however, results are extremely technique-dependent. This means that not all fat transfers are the same. Dr. Karam’s success with this procedure and his ability to get excellent long-lasting results are based on his unique technique and experience.
Anesthesia
The procedure is most commonly performed under local anesthesia with a light oral or IV sedation. Patients go home the same day with little discomfort and essentially no downtime. Bruising is variable.
Schedule A Consultation
Contact UsHow can I Move Forward with my San Diego Fat Grafting Procedure?
If you think you might be a good candidate for treatment with fat injections, the best course of action is to contact Dr. Karam at his private, comfortable San Diego, CA offices and set up a consultation.
During this first meeting with the doctor, he will examine your skin and face, review your medical history and enquire as to any previous cosmetic treatments. He will then begin to devise a customized plan of action for addressing your most pressing aesthetic issues.
Dr. Karam will answer all your questions and concerns in depth, going over such important topics as costs, risks and benefits; recovery and downtime; and of course, what you can expect from your results.