As we age, the natural decline of collagen, elastin, and facial fat can lead to visible signs of aging such as sagging skin, deep wrinkles, and hollowed facial contours. While a traditional facelift remains highly effective for addressing skin laxity and tightening underlying tissues, it does not replace a loss in facial volume that may be affecting the overall aesthetic balance of facial features. For patients seeking comprehensive facial rejuvenation, our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Eric Okamoto, can combine facelift surgery with facial fat transfer to restore both firmness and fullness to the face.
The Benefits of a Facelift
A facelift is designed to reduce sagging skin, smooth deep creases, and redefine the jawline and neck. By repositioning underlying tissues and removing excess skin, this procedure can dramatically improve lower facial contours and reduce the appearance of jowls. However, while a facelift effectively corrects structural sagging, it does not address volume loss in areas such as the cheeks, temples, and under the eyes—key regions that contribute to an aged or tired appearance.
Restoring Volume with Fat Transfer
Facial fat transfer, also known as fat grafting, complements a facelift by restoring youthful volume to depleted areas of the face. Using a patient’s own purified fat—typically harvested from the abdomen or thighs via liposuction—this procedure strategically injects fat into areas where fullness has diminished over time. Common treatment areas include the cheeks, nasolabial folds, lips, temples, and under the eyes. Because the transferred fat contains living cells, it can provide long-lasting, natural-looking results that improve skin texture and support collagen regeneration.
Why Combine These Procedures?
Facelift surgery and facial fat transfer address different yet equally important aspects of facial aging. A facelift improves the skin’s structural position and tightens underlying tissues, while fat transfer restores the soft, youthful contours that are often lost with age. Together, these procedures offer a more harmonious and complete rejuvenation with natural-looking outcomes that can avoid an overly tight or “surgical” appearance.
By combining these treatments, patients can achieve smoother skin, lifted contours, and restored facial volume in a more comprehensive approach. Additionally, using the body’s own fat for volume enhancement reduces the risk of allergic reactions and provides a biocompatible, sustainable solution for facial rejuvenation.
Is This Approach Right for You?
Ideal candidates for a combined facelift and fat transfer procedure are individuals seeking a more youthful, refreshed appearance without sacrificing natural facial harmony. During a personalized consultation, Dr. Okamoto can evaluate your concerns and design a customized treatment plan to help you achieve your aesthetic goals.
To learn more about facelift surgery, facial fat transfer, or comprehensive facial rejuvenation, we invite you to contact our practice today to schedule a consultation.