Fat Transfer vs. Dermal Fillers: Understanding the Differences
When it comes to using injectables in your body, you want to know exactly what you are putting into your body, right? You want to be one hundred percent sure that what you are using for your cosmetic procedures is safe and high quality and that they carry very little risk of anything going wrong.
Since dermal fillers and fat transfers are both procedures that can be done to different areas of the body, it is important to be aware of your options for either kind of filler before you go in for your procedure. While your doctor is there to guide you and administer the procedure, it is vital that you know what you want. There are several differences between fat transfers and dermal fillers, so read on to find out what they are and which are best for you.
What are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are bioengineered substances that are created and used to fill our areas of the face, lips, body, and labia. These fillers are made using different ingredients, and different kinds of fillers are best suited for certain body parts, while others may be suited best for use in the facial area or lips. It is important to do your research into these types of fillers.
What Are Dermal Fillers Made From?
Dermal fillers are usually made from hyaluronic acid and other ingredients that are known to be body safe and can even be beneficial! While some fillers have similar ingredients, it is important to know they are not all created the same. For instance, Botox contains Clostridium botulinum, which isn’t ideal for all situations, especially those in the body, as this ingredient is a known toxin that works by freezing or paralyzing the muscles of the face where it is injected.
How Long Do Dermal Fillers Last?
Dermal fillers typically last between six and twelve months, depending on the fillers. Some fillers tend to be longer lasting than others, while others will need maintenance treatments sooner.
Risks of Dermal Fillers
Because dermal fillers are not made by the human body, you can expect there to be some risks or even full rejections of the fillers by the body. If this happens, the fillers can be dissolved in most cases.
It is also important to know that fillers can migrate if directions are not followed properly for aftercare, which can cause an uneven look, lumpiness, and swelling.
What are Fat Transfers?
Fat transfers, unlike dermal fillers, do not contain any bioengineered substances or ingredients, as the procedure itself is completely natural in terms of what is used. Fat transfers are exactly what they sound like – they are transfers of fat from one area of the body to another. While they are less commonly used in areas like the face, they are the ideal filler for procedures such as labia puffing, which inflates the area around the labia to make it appear fuller.
How are Fat Transfers Done?
Fat transfers involve taking fat from one area of the body – usually the abdomen, thigh, buttocks, or upper arms – and injecting it into another area. These areas are usually areas on the body, such as the buttocks or labia. Fat transfers work well for these procedures, and many doctors encourage patients to take this route when they are looking for fillers for the body.
How Long Do Fat Transfers Last?
One major difference between dermal fillers and fat transfers is the amount of time they last. Unlike dermal fillers, which typically last six to twelve months, fat transfer procedures are often permanent, and any results that are achieved often remain.
Risks of Fat Transfers
Because fat transfers involve using fatty tissue from your own body, the risk of rejection or complications is essentially nonexistent. This means that fat transfers are a much safer treatment than dermal fillers for many procedures. You may still find that you encounter swelling, redness, and slight pain where the injections occurred, however.
If you would like to learn more about fat transfers, dermal fillers, and the procedures that utilize these, call the office of Dr. Ghozland today at 310-393-9359, and we will be happy to help!