Aging, genetics and lifestyle factors can lead to a loss of facial volume, resulting in a tired or aged appearance. Fortunately, advancements in cosmetic treatments offer various facial fillers and volume-enhancing options to rejuvenate and contour the face. At the practice of Maurice M. Khosh, MD, FACS, we provide a range of solutions to help you achieve a youthful and refreshed look, including autologous fat, nano fat, hyaluronic acid fillers, poly-L-lactic acid and calcium hydroxylapatite.
Autologous Fat Transfer
Autologous fat transfer, also known as fat grafting, involves harvesting fat from the lower body (abdomen, flank, or thigh) through a separate procedure. This fat is then prepared and injected into specific areas of the face, such as the lower eyelids, to enhance volume and contour.
Benefits and Considerations
- Longevity: Fat grafting offers the longest-lasting benefits among volume-enhancing options, often providing permanent results.
- Versatility: This procedure can be performed globally to augment multiple facial areas simultaneously.
- Natural Look: Since the filler is derived from your body, it integrates well with existing tissues.
Disadvantages
- Separate Procedure: Fat harvesting requires an additional surgical step, increasing overall procedure time and cost.
- Potential Lumpiness: There is a risk of a lumpy appearance in the treated areas due to fat globules.
Nano Fat
Nano fat is a newer technique that involves harvesting fat similarly to autologous fat transfer. However, the harvested fat is processed through small screens to disrupt the fat cells while preserving fat-derived stem cells. These stem cells are then injected into the face using tiny cannulas.
Benefits and Considerations
- No Lumpiness: Nano fat injections are smooth and do not cause lumpiness.
- Skin Rejuvenation: The stem cells in nano fat have shown remarkable benefits for skin rejuvenation, improving texture and elasticity.
Disadvantages
- Procedure Complexity: Like autologous fat transfer, nano fat requires fat harvesting, making it more complex and potentially costly.
Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers, such as Juvederm, Restylane, and Belotero, are synthetic gels that mimic a naturally occurring substance in the body. These fillers are used to augment and contour various facial areas.
Benefits and Considerations
- Smooth and Contourable: HA fillers are easy to mold and shape to achieve the desired look.
- Reversible: A significant advantage is that HA fillers can be dissolved if needed.
- Duration: Results typically last about a year.
Disadvantages
- Temporary Results: While lasting around a year, HA fillers require maintenance for prolonged effects.
Poly-L-Lactic Acid (Sculptra Aesthetic)
Sculptra Aesthetic is a synthetic material in powder form, similar to what is used in absorbable sutures. It is dissolved in sterile water and injected to stimulate collagen formation.
Benefits and Considerations
- Collagen Stimulation: This filler promotes collagen production, enhancing facial volume over several months.
- Longevity: Results can last up to two years.
Disadvantages
- Delayed Results: It may take a few months to see full results.
- Nodule Formation: There is a risk of developing nodules under the skin.
Calcium Hydroxylapatite (Radiesse)
Radiesse is a white, paste-like filler composed of phosphate and calcium suspended in a gel. It is injected to fill and contour facial areas, particularly the lower eyelids.
Benefits and Considerations
- Longevity: Results can last about 18 months.
- Immediate Volume: Provides an instant volumizing effect.
Disadvantages
- Nodule Formation: There is a risk of developing nodules.
- Visible Color: The white color of the paste might be visible under certain conditions.
Facial fillers and volume-enhancing options offer diverse solutions for those seeking to restore a youthful appearance. At the practice of Maurice M. Khosh, MD, FACS, we provide expert consultations to help you choose the best filler for your needs. Whether you opt for a fat transfer or a dermal filler, our goal is to deliver natural, beautiful results. Contact us today at our office in NYC to schedule a consultation and explore the possibilities for facial rejuvenation.
