I had fat injected in the nasolabial folds seven years ago.  It looks like I have swellings on both sides where it was injected.  Can it be removed?  Would I risk being disfigured if it were removed?

Fat can be liposuctioned out.  It might be easy or difficult depending on the amount of scarring and fat volume. There is always a risk you may not like the results of a second procedure.  It is interesting to hear that your fat has lasted seven years!  You should find a plastic surgeon that is familiar with these type of procedures and fat grafting in general.  You might consider staging it, so it is not over done and you are left with too much fat gone.  Perhaps starting with a conservative removal of fat and not being overly aggressive may give the best results. Talk to your surgeon about this!

Best Wishes.

Liposuction of the excess fat is sometimes a possible solution.  However, the fact that you had fat injection in the first place means that you had a concern prior to that treatment.

A consultation is necessary to evaluate your current condition.  Only then can a discussion of the treatment options, and their risks be properly addressed.

Consult a BOARD CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON (AMERICAN BOARD OF PLASTIC SURGERY) for an examination and opinion.  Transferred fat can be removed but it depends on the location of the fat.

In the lower lids (tear trough) it is very difficult.  In other areas one can try liposuction with a small cannula, if the fat location is accessible.

Micro-liposuction with a small aspiration needle/cannula can be attempted to try to remove or break-up the fat deposit.  I've done this for a patient with a bulge on the upper lip and another patient with a bulge in the lower eyelid tear trough from fat injections many years prior and it yielded satisfactory results.  You can be left with a depression or contour irregularity if too much fat is removed.  I would recommend you see a Board Certified plastic surgeon to discuss your specific situation in more detail.

Injected fat can be treated just like fat anywhere.  The only problem is that there is more scar around it making it harder to deal with.  Your other problem is that it is in the face.  Because of this, make sure whomever you see has significant experience with liposuction and other procedures of the face.