Related Experiment Videos
Free fat transplantation in the face
1Centre of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Facial Surgery, ATOS Hospital Heidelberg, Germany.
Summary
Free fat transfer from the gluteal fold is a viable option for facial soft tissue defects. While initial grafts may be oversized, the fat maintains good consistency and remains in place after healing.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
- Facial Aesthetics
Background:
- Facial soft tissue defects require surgical correction.
- Free fat transplantation has faced criticism regarding its efficacy and predictability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term outcomes of free fat transfer from the gluteal fold for facial soft tissue reconstruction.
- To assess graft viability, consistency, and patient satisfaction.
Main Methods:
- 19 free fat transfers were performed from the gluteal fold over 12 years.
- Follow-up was conducted on 12 patients (14 transfers).
- Ultrasound examinations were used for long-term graft assessment.
Main Results:
- Initial grafts were often oversized, necessitating reduction.
- Fat resorption tendency was difficult to predict.
- Ultrasound showed structural changes, but none were significant.
- Palpation revealed good fat consistency, especially for cheek augmentation, with grafts remaining in situ.
Conclusions:
- Free fat transfer from the gluteal fold remains a useful technique for specific facial soft tissue defects.
- Careful graft sizing and patient selection are crucial for optimal results.