Dermal or Fat Grafts

Dermal and fat grafts can be used to soften the appearance of wrinkles.

The skin is made up of two layers; the outer epidermis and the inner or structural dermis. The dermis is strong fibrous tissue that your body cannot reject as it is your own material. Dermal grafts are strips of dermis that are obtained from scars or during other surgical procedures. These are then laid in small tunnels under the wrinkles. Dermal grafts “take” in a similar fashion to skin grafts and are incorporated and remodeled by the body, forming a permanent filler.

Procedure and Benefits of Fat Grafts

Fat grafts can be used to fill out wrinkles, skin irregularities or depressions, and augment skin layers. Wrinkles, lips and cheeks are commonly treated. The fat is taken from appropriate parts of your body – usually the abdomen or tummy. It is then concentrated and any fatty oils and other tissue is removed. The fat is then injected in thin strips and is repeated until the desired result is achieved. Some bruising and swelling can occur soon after injecting.

Occasionally, the fat can be absorbed by the body and if this occurs, the treatment is simply repeated, but once stabilised the results are usually permanent.

Consultation with Dr John Kippen

At the time of consultation Dr Kippen will give a far more comprehensive explanation of these treatments. He will detail the techniques and outcomes. Brochures and information sheets are also used, as well as before and after photographs.

You should read the information presented here in conjunction with the information contained on the Frequently Asked Questions page of the website