Excess fat taken from your abdomen, legs, or buttocks can be used to replace deficiencies in the cheeks, lips and other areas of the face. It can also be used to help soften deep wrinkles and improve depressed scars.  The fat is removed utilizing special techniques which minimize trauma and protect the fat cells.  The fat is then processed to remove serum, blood and other unwanted components.  Finally it is reinserted into the desired locations in the face to provide a more youthful appearance.  Since the fat comes from your body, it is safe and cannot cause allergic reactions. A fat transfer can be done alone or in conjunction with other surgeries, particularly facelift or eyelid surgery.  When performed alone, it can rejuvenate the face by correcting for volume loss and the descent of the soft tissues of the face that occur with aging.  It will also soften deep wrinkles and furrows creating a more rested look. When performed with other facial surgery, fat injections help to optimize the effects of tightening and lifting by restoring lost volume.  Fat injections typically last between 6-12 months although some of the fat can be permanent.  The results are natural looking and feeling and recovery time is minimal.