Fat Graft Post Care
Fat Grafting involves transferring a person’s own fat from one area where it is less needed to an area that has lost tissue volume due to aging, trauma, surgery, birth defects, or other causes. Fat grafting can be performed as an ambulatory procedure when the following simple instructions are followed:
What to expect
Bruising, swelling and mild discomfort in both the face and the part of the body from where the fat was harvested is normal and will gradually resolve within a period of a few days to weeks. Pressure and tightness in your face are also normal.
Bruising and swelling peak around 72 hours after the procedure and will decrease after the first several days. Swelling resolves unevenly so one side of the face may be more swollen or lumpy than the other side.
You may notice ongoing changes for up to a year after the procedure. This does not mean that your fat is going away, but typically a little swelling can persist even up to six months after surgery.
Instructions
- Use ice packs liberally in the areas of the face where fat was transplanted for the first three days to minimize bruising and swelling. Do not put ice directly on the skin to avoid frostbite skin damage. You may also ice the body area from where the fat was harvested.
- Keep your head elevated to help reduce swelling and pain. At night, sleep with several pillows under your head or in a recliner for one-week post-procedure.
- Dietary salt should be limited in order to reduce facial swelling.
- No strenuous activity for one week after surgery including exercise, heavy lifting, bending, yard work, cleaning or anything that includes straining or elevating your heart rate.
- You can apply makeup the day after surgery if needed.
Call our office for any concerns or questions Alabama Surgical Arts Office Phone Number 334-271-2002.