Introduction
As we age, the face gradually loses volume due to a natural process called fat atrophy. Over time, this loss can become more pronounced, often resulting in a tired or aged appearance. Fat transfer utilizes a person’s own fat to counteract these changes by replenishing lost volume and supporting the facial structure, thereby helping to restore a more youthful and refreshed appearance. Dr. Lugo in Athens offers this unique treatment to patients seeking a natural solution to address signs of aging.
Facial fat transfer is a process in which fat is removed from one part of the body (the donor) via liposuction and then redeposited into the face to add volume. Its primary goal is to utilize fat from one’s body to address signs of aging or other issues, rather than relying on fillers or other cosmetic treatments.
Fat transfer is a versatile procedure with both cosmetic and reconstructive uses. It’s commonly used to enhance facial contours, but it also plays a significant role in body treatments, such as breast augmentation and reconstruction, smoothing out acne or trauma-related scars, correcting surface irregularities caused by injuries or burns, and addressing certain congenital abnormalities.
Patients tend to opt for solutions like facial fat transfer rather than fillers, implants, or other treatments because the latter rely on the body’s own elements. This minimizes the risk of allergic responses or other potential complications. The procedure is also permanent, meaning there is no need for ongoing maintenance and subsequent treatments.
Ideal candidates for facial treatments are non-smokers with relatively healthy lifestyles who do not have serious eye conditions (if considering blepharoplasty). If you’re tired of looking older than you feel and want the best care and results, visit top board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Lugo in Athens.
You’ll need to consult with an experienced, board-certified surgeon to perform facial fat transfer in a way that looks beautiful and natural. In Athens, GA, Dr. Lugo works with patients virtually and online to determine whether they are suitable candidates for the procedure by assessing their facial structure and identifying potential donor areas on their body. Based on this assessment, she will create a treatment plan that outlines where to harvest fat, the amount to harvest, and which areas of the face will require injections. She will also guide you on how to prepare for the treatment and care for your treated areas during recovery.
Dr. Lugo believes every patient deserves the highest quality of care, which is why Lugo Plastic Surgery is accredited by QUAD A. This nonprofit, physician-founded and physician-led organization has partnered with thousands of healthcare facilities to raise and standardize the quality of care. Through its accreditation programs, QUAD A helps practices like ours demonstrate a strong commitment to patient safety while ensuring consistent, exceptional standards.
QUAD A officially recognizes facilities that have met 100% of its high standards. Accreditation assures the public that patient safety is the top priority. An accredited facility is re-evaluated through a yearly self-survey and an onsite survey every three years. Facilities must continuously comply with all QUAD A accreditation standards between surveys.
Our accreditation certificate signifies that Lugo Plastic Surgery, as an office-based surgery center, has consistently demonstrated the highest level of care and safety in meeting or exceeding all applicable state and federal guidelines.
The procedure typically begins in our Athens surgical center with a consultation to review the treatment plan, ensure all your questions are answered, and administer anesthesia. Dr. Lugo will first perform liposuction, usually from either the abdomen, flanks, or thighs, to harvest your body’s natural fat. The fat is then purified to ensure only the healthiest, most viable fat cells are injected. Dr. Lugo will then transfer the fat into the selected areas of your face to restore lost volume, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. The whole procedure typically takes a couple of hours.
Recovery after a facial fat transfer is typically well-tolerated. In the first few days, you may experience mild swelling, bruising, and tenderness at both the donor and recipient sites. Most patients can return to light activities within a few days, though significant swelling may take 1 to 2 weeks to subside.
Dr. Lugo advises sleeping with your head elevated and avoiding strenuous exercise for at least two weeks to allow the fat grafts to integrate properly. Small fluctuations in swelling are normal, but final results become more apparent as the transferred fat settles over the next few months. Because some of the injected fat will naturally be reabsorbed, Dr. Lugo may slightly overfill certain areas to ensure long-lasting volume enhancement.
A Facial Fat Transfer in Oconee County and Athens usually costs between $2,000 and $7,500. Your surgeon’s experience will determine the exact cost, the extent of the treatment, the amount of fat being harvested and transferred, and the surgical and anesthesia fees. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Lugo to receive an exact breakdown of your treatment. Based on her assessment and treatment plan, she’ll be able to provide full pricing transparency and offer financing solutions if needed.
Dr. Liana M. Lugo, founder and medical director of Lugo Plastic Surgery, is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has helped countless patients achieve their aesthetic goals. Dr. Lugo brings a woman’s perspective and qualities to help her patients achieve excellent outcomes.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Lugo, please call our Athens office at (706) 707-5854 or complete the online patient form. Even if you’re just curious to learn more about the procedure or explore different options, Dr. Lugo and the team are happy to work with you and find a treatment that best suits your needs.
