Facial volume loss contributes to the appearance of aging. Autologous fat — that is, your own fat — has many qualities that make it the ideal filler for correcting facial volume loss and providing a subtle lift.
Your own fat:
- Is completely biocompatible and naturally integrates into the facial area(s) being augmented;
- Carries no risk of allergic or foreign-body reactions;
- Is readily available, easily obtained and inexpensive (when you compare fat versus hyaluronic acid dermal fillers in a syringe-to-syringe comparison);
- Injects to the same consistency as the surrounding tissue; and
- Does not cause a Tyndall effect (a bluish discoloration found when hyaluronic acid dermal fillers are injected too superficially or under very translucent skin such as that found under the eyes.)
It is theorized that the key to fat transfer success is viable fat cells, as only living fat cells have the potential to develop a blood supply and provide durable benefit to the patient. Successful survival of transferred fat cells depends on the cells receiving adequate nutrition and respiration via contact between the capillaries of host tissues. Overall, when less trauma occurs during harvesting, graft preparation, and transfer, there appears to be a correlation with more consistent long-term volume maintenance.
Traditional fat harvest techniques may cause trauma to fat cells via:
- Manipulation and exposure to air during harvest, graft preparation, and transfer;
- High negative pressures created when using a liposuction device;
- High centrifugal forces; and
- Internal corrosion of reusable cannulas, which may damage cell membranes as they move through the tube, causing them to die.
The Viafill™ System, used by Dr. Bowen, is designed to:
- Maximize the number of live fat cells transplanted, increasing the potential for longer-lasting results;
- Minimize damage to fat cells during harvest, preparation, and re-injection compared with traditional fat harvesting techniques by limiting manipulation, exposure to air, and trauma; and
- Eliminate contamination risks (the system is completely disposable).
Because of the unique benefits of The Viafill™ System, it is Dr. Bowen’s choice for all the facial fat transfer surgeries he performs.
Please call the office at (304) 264-9080 for more information about this transformational facial rejuvenation procedure.
(Photos courtesy of Wikipedia)
