Is Fat Grafting or Implants Better for Midface Augmentation?

Q: Dr. Eppley, One more question that relates to midface augmentation. I’d like to get the your read on fat grafting for infraorbital augmentation vs. implants. Would also be great to know how much fat grafting costs if that’s an option.

A: Fat grating is always an option for midface augmentation but the take and persistence of injected fat in the face of young patients is both predictably unpredictable and often poor volume persists. But there is never any harm in doing so as it is an autologous operation with few downsides…other than it may not work. For the patient who is unsure or skiddish about infraorbital implants that is usually the best patient for midface fat grafting as the initial procedure of choice.  

Fat grafting is popular because any plastic surgeon can do it…but that should not be confused with whether its is always a good procedure for the problem being treated or whether it makes is a superior procedure to do. Knowing the advantages and disadvantages of each procedural option is the best way to make an educated choice.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana