Understanding how PRP and fat injections work for facial contouring

At the practice of Dr. Derek Steinbacher, patients in the Guilford, Connecticut, area have several treatment options available to them when it comes to surgically (and non-surgically) enhancing the face and body. That is true with facial contouring using PRP and fat injections. Both are used at the office and can provide enhancements where they are needed.

How can I contour my face without plastic surgery?

While plastic surgery is necessary in some instances, not everyone is a good candidate. Patients may also be looking for a less invasive way to improve the contours of the face. In situations like this, our dedicated team might recommend the use of PRP and facial fat injections. PRP uses the patient’s platelet-rich plasma harvested from their blood to stimulate collagen and elastin production. In contrast, facial fat injections harvest fat cells from another part of the body and reinject them where volume is needed. Some patients may even benefit from a combination of both to get the changes they truly desire.

Change the contours of your face without surgery.

With our skilled application, natural PRP and fat injections from your own body can provide the contouring you desire for your face.

Discuss your options today.

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The pros and cons of PRP and fat injections for facial contouring

If you’re considering a facial contouring treatment, you may be wondering if PRP or fat injections are the better option. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of each:

PRP injections:

  • Are less expensive than fat injections
  • Are less invasive than fat injections
  • Can be used to address a variety of areas, including the cheeks, jawline, and nose

However, PRP injections may not be as effective as fat injections for contouring the face. Fat injections:

  • Are more expensive than PRP injections
  • Are more invasive than PRP injections
  • Are more likely to result in lasting results than PRP injections
  • Can be used to contour a variety of areas, including the cheeks, jawline, and nose

Which one is best for me?

Frequently we will use both PRP and fat injections concurrently or simultaneously.  This is because the presence of PRP helps the overall fat injection retention (that is – the fat is less apt to resorb).  PRP contains growth factors that promote healing, minimize inflammation, and help nourish to replenish the youthful state of your skin.

PRP and Fat Injections FAQs

What are PRP and fat injections? How do they enhance facial contours?

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy uses a patient’s blood to extract plasma rich in growth factors. When injected into the face, it stimulates collagen and elastin production, improving skin texture, firmness, and overall rejuvenation. Fat injections, also called fat grafting, involve harvesting fat from another part of the body and re-injecting it into areas of volume loss, such as cheeks, jawline, or under-eye hollows. Together, these procedures restore youthful contours naturally without the need for implants or synthetic fillers.

How do PRP and fat injections differ from traditional facial surgeries?

Unlike traditional facial surgery, which requires incisions, general anesthesia, and a longer recovery, PRP and fat injections are minimally invasive procedures performed under local anesthesia. PRP stimulates natural skin regeneration, while fat injections restore lost volume using the patient’s tissue. These treatments provide a safer, less invasive alternative with quicker recovery, making them appealing for patients who want noticeable improvements without the downtime or risks associated with major surgery.

What are the benefits of combining PRP with fat injections?

Using PRP in combination with fat injections enhances both the results and longevity of the procedure. PRP’s growth factors help the transplanted fat cells survive and integrate more effectively, which can improve the smoothness, fullness, and natural appearance of treated areas. Patients often notice faster healing, less swelling, and longer-lasting volume restoration compared to fat injections alone. This combination harnesses the regenerative properties of PRP while maximizing the benefits of fat transfer

Who is the ideal candidate for PRP and fat injections?

Ideal candidates are those who want to restore facial volume or improve skin quality without undergoing extensive surgery. This includes individuals experiencing age-related volume loss, under-eye hollows, hollow cheeks, or skin laxity. Candidates should be in good health and have realistic expectations about the results. A consultation with Dr. Steinbacher ensures the procedure is tailored to each patient’s unique facial structure, needs, and goals.

What is the recovery process like after these injections?

Recovery time depends on the extent of treatment. Most patients experience minimal downtime, although mild swelling, bruising, or tenderness can occur at the injection sites. PRP alone typically has a very short recovery, while fat injections may require a few days of rest to allow optimal healing. We provide clear post-procedure instructions, including how to minimize swelling and care for treated areas, ensuring a safe and smooth recovery process.

How long do the results from PRP and fat injections last?

Results vary depending on the procedure and individual factors. PRP may require multiple sessions to achieve optimal results, which can last several months. Fat injections often provide longer-lasting volume restoration, as the transplanted fat integrates into the tissue. However, some fat may be naturally reabsorbed over time, so occasional touch-ups may be recommended to maintain the best possible results.

Are there any risks or side effects associated with these procedures?

Both PRP and fat injections are generally safe, but some side effects can occur. PRP may cause minor swelling, redness, or temporary bruising, while fat injections carry the potential for uneven results, partial fat resorption, or mild swelling at the donor site. Serious complications are rare. Our team carefully evaluates each patient to minimize risks and tailor the procedure for safe, natural-looking results.

Ultimately, the best treatment solution for you depends on your individual needs and goals. Consult with Dr. Derek Steinbacher of Guilford, CT, to determine which treatment is proper for you. Call the office at (203) 453-6635 to schedule an appointment at the office, located at 5 Durham Road, Suite 1-8, Guilford. Our practice is open to new and current patients considering surgical and nonsurgical solutions for the face and body and is excited to offer facial contouring with both PRP and fat injections.

Dr. Derek Steinbacher MD, DMD, FACS

Dr. Derek Steinbacher has devoted his life to aesthetic and life-changing surgery. He is an artistic and meticulous surgeon who draws patients from around the world due to his perspective, unmatched skill, and exceptional results. He is able to uniquely address the face (facelift + rejuvenation), jawline (orthognathic; chin; contouring; implants), nasal (rhinoplasty), eyelids, profile, neck, breast, and body with one-of-a-kind results.

He is a multiple Board-Certified, Fellowship-Trained Plastic, Cosmetic, and Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery. He is Fellow of the most prestigious surgical organizations, including the Society of Plastic Surgeons, the American College of Surgeons, the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, the Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery, Societies of Craniofacial and Maxillofacial Surgery, the Aesthetic Society, and the Rhinoplasty Society. He has served as Full-Professor of Plastic Surgery at Yale, including Director of the Cleft and Craniofacial Program, and Chief of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Dr. Steinbacher has unparalleled training at premier institutions, including Harvard and Johns Hopkins. His perspective brings together the best aspects of many distinct – but related fields – and it is this intersection of scope and expertise, in addition to an artistic eye, which enables excellent comprehensive results.

Dr. Steinbacher's approach: technical acumen, meticulousness, and penchant for combining art and science, together with his eye for balance, beauty, and harmony, helps achieve outcomes that greatly improve a person's confidence, health, and overall quality of life. Patients can trust that they are always in good hands!