“Tear trough” deformity is a prominent groove running from medial canthus to the cheek giving “old” and “tired” appearance to infraorbital area. Deficit of subcutaneous fat tissue and loosening of ligaments are main factors responsible for this sign of aging.

Fat grafting replaces its deficits and improves skin quality in infraorbital area. After harvesting from donor sites (i.e. lower abdomen, thighs, back) it is processed in sterile condition and transplanted to “tear trough” deformity. Due to partial absorption of transferred fat, supplementary grafting may be required to provide long-lasting result.

“Tear trough” correction with fat grafting is performed in local anesthesia with analgosedation. If it is combined with other face rejuvenation procedures (i.e. lower eyelid blepharoplasty, face lift) general anesthesia is used.

Patient after fat grafting to the “tear trough” may go home 3 hours after the procedure.

Recovery period depends on corrected area, transferred volume and accompanying procedures. Return to normal non-strenuous activity is possible after 2-3 days. Edema and bruises resolve within 2-3 weeks. Final aesthetic result is evaluated after 3 months.

Significant weight fluctuances may change aesthetic result of this procedure. Although results of fat grafting is longer (up to 2 years) than standard fillers (up to 6 months) it is not permanent. Fat grafting corrects “tear trough” deformity and rejuvenates the area but doesn’t stop natural aging processes.

This short information doesn’t replace medical consultation in the office.