As the July 4th weekend approaches, I find myself reflecting on what this holiday means to me—not just as an American, but as someone who chose to become one.

I was born in Europe in the aftermath of World War II and spent my early years in a refugee camp in war torn German before emigrating to Canada in 1951. I completed college and medical school in Toronto and moved to the United States in 1974 to further my surgical training at Columbia and Harvard University hospitals. I never intended to stay forever, but as I began teaching at the University of California, one opportunity led to another. Then, in 1986, when my son was born, I knew this would be my home for life. That same year, I proudly became a U.S. citizen.

For immigrants like me, Independence Day holds deep personal significance. It reminds us of the hopes that brought us here—the belief that this country offers opportunity, freedom, and a chance to build a better life. And I can say with gratitude that those ideals hold true. The United States has afforded me professional success, personal freedom, and the ability to give back in ways I could never have imagined as a child.

Of course, with freedom comes responsibility. As Americans, we must cherish the rights we enjoy—but also take part in the democratic process by voting, participating in civic life, and extending a hand to those in need. True patriotism involves not only loving our country, but also working to improve it for future generations.

So this week, as we enjoy barbecues, parades, and fireworks, let’s take a moment to reflect on what makes America great—not just its comforts and liberties, but its spirit of hope, resilience, and generosity.

God bless America—and Happy Independence Day to all.

My father, Janis, and mother, Jadviga, with our then 4-month-old son, celebrating July 4th at our community parade in Piedmont, California, in 1986, where we lived at the time.

Imagine if your own body held the secret to refreshing and rejuvenating your face—naturally. That’s exactly what nanofat grafting offers, but unlike spa treatments or topical solutions, this is a precise, surgeon-performed procedure grounded in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.

Nanofat grafting begins with the gentle harvesting of a small amount of fat through liposuction—commonly from areas like the abdomen or thighs. This fat is then mechanically emulsified and filtered into an ultra-fine suspension. Unlike traditional fat grafts that primarily restore volume, nanofat contains no intact fat cells; instead, it is rich in stromal vascular fraction (SVF), which includes adipose-derived stem cells, growth factors, and regenerative components. These cellular elements are known to stimulate collagen production, enhance vascularity, and promote tissue repair at the microscopic level.

Where can it be used?

Nanofat grafting is particularly effective in areas where we want to improve skin quality and support underlying tissue health without adding excessive bulk:
• Under-eye hollows and tear troughs – to reduce dark circles, fine crepe-like texture, and early signs of aging
• Crow’s feet and fine periorbital lines – to smooth lines that are difficult to address with traditional fillers or Botox®
• Cheeks and temples – to subtly enhance contours while improving skin tone
• Perioral area (around the mouth) – to refine fine lines and improve elasticity
• Neck, décolletage, and hands – to restore a smoother, more youthful skin texture

Because nanofat is your own tissue, the risk of allergic reaction is virtually nonexistent, and its regenerative potential means patients often see progressive improvement over several months as collagen remodeling and skin thickening occur. The results are natural—not an artificial “filled” look—but healthier, more resilient skin supported by your body’s own biology.

Recovery after nanofat grafting:
• Immediately after the procedure: Mild swelling, bruising, and tenderness at the donor and injection sites are common and most noticeable in the first 48–72 hours.
• The first week: Swelling and bruising subside. Most patients resume normal activities within 5–7 days.
• 2 to 4 weeks: Visible signs have largely resolved, and early regenerative effects begin to appear.
• 3 to 6 months: Skin continues to improve in texture, firmness, and elasticity as collagen remodeling progresses.

Aftercare tips:
• Avoid heavy exercise for about a week or until cleared by your surgeon.
• Protect treated areas from sun exposure.
• Follow post-procedure instructions, including skincare guidance.
Since nanofat stimulates your tissue’s natural regenerative processes, results can last a year or more, though maintenance treatments may be desired over time.

42 year old female with premature periorbital aging, shown here before and a year after nanofat grafting to the lower eyelid and cheek area (actual patient of Dr. Deborah Ekstrom).

Interested in improving an issue of concern?

Schedule your consultation with Dr. Ekstrom today!

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