Facial infiltrating lipomatosis is a rare condition that causes progressive overgrowth of fatty tissue, often leading to facial asymmetry, swelling, and skin thickening. At the Vascular Birthmark Institute, led by Dr. Waner and Dr. O, we specialize in diagnosing and treating complex vascular and soft tissue anomalies to restore confidence and function.
What Is Facial Infiltrating Lipomatosis?
Facial infiltrating lipomatosis is a rare congenital condition characterized by the abnormal growth of mature fat cells that deeply infiltrate facial muscles, soft tissues, and sometimes bone. Unlike ordinary lipomas, these fatty growths are diffuse, non-encapsulated, and resistant to regression. This condition often leads to progressive facial asymmetry, swelling, skin changes, and potential functional issues with chewing or speaking. Dr. Waner and Dr. O specialize in diagnosing and managing this disorder and offer individualized plans to optimize appearance and function.
Signs & Symptoms of Facial Infiltrating Lipomatosis:
- Progressive facial asymmetry, often noticeable from early childhood
- Localized swelling or fullness on one side of the face
- Thickening or stretching of the overlying skin
- Involvement of muscles, leading to changes in facial movement
- Overgrowth of underlying bone structures in severe cases
- Difficulty with chewing, speaking, or other oral functions
- Areas of warmth or softness where fatty tissue is abundant
- Accelerated growth of teeth or dental misalignment on the affected side
- Enlargement of the tongue (macroglossia) in some cases
Treatments for Facial Infiltrating Lipomatosis
At the Vascular Birthmark Institute, we take a highly personalized approach to treating facial infiltrating lipomatosis. Your diagnosis will begin with a thorough evaluation, including a detailed clinical exam and advanced imaging studies like MRI or CT scans.
These tools allow us to map the extent of fatty infiltration, muscle involvement, and any underlying bone changes. Based on your unique presentation, Dr. Waner and Dr. O will curate a treatment plan that balances aesthetic goals with functional needs.
Surgical Debulking
Surgical debulking is the most common treatment for facial infiltrating lipomatosis. During this procedure, our doctors remove excess fatty tissue while preserving vital facial structures like nerves, blood vessels, and muscles. Because the fat infiltrates normal tissues without clear boundaries, complete removal is usually not possible. Instead, debulking aims to reduce volume, restore symmetry, and improve facial contour.
Bone Contouring
Bone contouring may be recommended in cases where facial bones have thickened or overgrown due to long-standing fat infiltration. This surgical technique involves reshaping the affected bones, such as the jaw, cheekbone, or forehead, to restore balance and symmetry. Our team uses precise instruments and imaging guidance to sculpt the bone. Bone contouring is often performed alongside debulking surgery to achieve a natural-looking outcome.
Fat Grafting or Soft Tissue Sculpting
After reducing excess tissue, we may recommend fat grafting or soft tissue sculpting to fine-tune facial shape. In fat grafting, a small amount of healthy fat is harvested from another part of your body, purified, and reinjected into areas that need volume restoration or smoothing. This helps to correct any hollowness or irregular contours created by previous debulking. Soft tissue sculpting can also involve skin tightening or repositioning to optimize the final appearance.
Ongoing Monitoring and Staged Treatment
Because facial infiltrating lipomatosis can continue to evolve, especially during childhood and adolescence, ongoing monitoring is crucial. Our doctors will work closely with you through regular follow-ups to assess facial growth, address any functional changes, and determine if additional treatments are needed. Staged surgical interventions allow us to adapt the patient’s care to their development while minimizing the impact on their appearance.
Schedule Your Consultation
Vascular Birthmark Institute is a world-renowned center dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of complex vascular and soft tissue anomalies. Led by Dr. Waner and Dr. O, our team offers expert, personalized care for individuals affected by facial infiltrating lipomatosis. If you or your child is experiencing symptoms of facial infiltrating lipomatosis, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with us and begin your journey toward comprehensive care.
Contact Vascular Birthmark Institute Today
