Autologous Fat Transfer to the Eyelids and Face

Abstract

Volume depletion has become a vital hallmark of facial aging in conjunction with gravitational descent. Using autologous fat as a facial augmentation tool has long been an accepted form of facial volumization. Unlike nonfat filler material, autologous fat can be readily available and minimizes the risk of immunologic rejection. A main limitation of this procedure is grafted adipocyte viability resulting in contour inconsistency, making vascular supply, preparation, and proper technique vital to fat survival. Adding fat grafting to other eyelid and rhytidectomy procedures can add for a more three-dimensional enhancement with a natural appearing result. Continued advances have allowed finer instrumentation with smaller cannulas, thus leading to lower complication rates and enhanced outcomes. Facial volumization continues to be vital tool in the cosmetic surgery armamentarium that can have a lasting impact on facial appearance.