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Fat Transfer

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A fat transfer procedure – also commonly referred to as fat injections, fat grafting or autologous fat transfer – utilizes a patient’s own body fat collected via liposuction, purifies that substance, and then injects the fat back into designated areas for cosmetic enhancement. This treatment is designed to add volume and improve contours in various areas of the body, including the face, breasts, and buttocks. Customized fat transfer procedures can provide many patients with smooth, natural-looking, and long-lasting results that address a variety of common aesthetic concerns.

What Are the Benefits of Fat Injections?

The versatility of fat injections makes it a dynamic option for many patients looking to achieve a wide range of cosmetic goals. Benefits offered by fat injections can include:

This rejuvenating and restorative treatment can be applied almost anywhere in the body. During your consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dana Coberly, MD, you’ll discuss the different options available for your specific goals and explore whether this treatment is ideal for your needs.

Who Is a Candidate for Fat Transfer?

Candidates for fat transfer include individuals seeking to minimize signs of facial aging and other common aesthetic concerns, as well as those who wish to enhance volume and contour in specific body areas. This procedure is particularly favored by those looking to rejuvenate facial features, enhance the appearance of the breasts, or improve hip contours. It can also be a good option for patients who desire a natural alternative to dermal fillers or implants. Ideal candidates should be in good general health, have realistic expectations for the outcome of the treatment, and possess a sufficient amount of excess fat in the area of the body where the fat will be harvested for transfer. Dr. Coberly can evaluate your needs and goals during the initial consultation to determine if fat transfer is a suitable option.

What Are Common Fat Transfer Procedures?

Facial Fat Transfer

Facial fat transfer procedures can improve signs of aging that diminish volume and deplete what was once a more youthful, refreshed aesthetic. The natural aging process may lead to sunken or hollow cheeks, thinner lips, and deep wrinkles or creases. By injecting fat into targeted facial areas, this technique can produce softer contours and smoother skin texture while augmenting the cheeks, lips, or under-eye hollows. Fat transfer treatments can also be ideal for filling in “marionette” lines, nasolabial folds, and other facial wrinkles with effects that can last much longer than other dermal fillers.

Breast Augmentation with Fat Grafting

For patients who would like fuller breasts but may not need breast implants to achieve their goals, a breast augmentation with fat grafting (fat transfer) could be an option. Also referred to as a “natural” breast augmentation, this procedure is best for enhancing volume – with only a very conservative increase in size – to achieve a soft, subtle, natural-looking result. It’s important to note that, for a noticeable breast size enhancement, there will most likely need to be several fat injection sessions performed over staged appointments.

Patients who would like a more significant size increase may be better suited to a full breast augmentation. With that in mind, breast augmentation with fat grafting can also be advantageous for balancing out asymmetrical breasts or enhancing a traditional breast augmentation by smoothing the edges of the implants.

Fat Transfer vs. Cosmetic Injectables

Common facial cosmetic concerns such as wrinkles, folds, creases, lines, and volume loss can often be improved by either a fat transfer procedure or cosmetic injectables, depending on your preference. There are several differences to consider:

Fat Transfer

  • Uses the patient’s own natural volume of fat
  • Requires outpatient surgery (which includes liposuction) with general anesthesia
  • Results typically last much longer than dermal fillers
  • Patient receives the double-benefit of excess fat reduction in one area of the body followed by rejuvenation of another

Injectables

  • Many injectables use hyaluronic acid or muscle- / wrinkle-relaxing botulinum toxin components to rejuvenate signs of facial aging or stress
  • Non-surgical alternative without any downtime
  • Temporary results that last an average of four to eighteen months depending on the solution utilized

In certain cases, individuals may be ineligible for surgery or they would like more temporary results, so cosmetic injectables will likely be preferable. Dr. Coberly carefully reviews each option for every patient so they may make the best decision for their treatment plan.

What Can I Expect During Recovery from Fat Transfer?

Patients may experience bruising, swelling, and discomfort at the treatment areas immediately following surgery, but these symptoms should subside within one week. It is common for patients to take one to two weeks off work to let the incisions at the extraction and transfer sites fully heal. Our surgeon will provide post-procedure care instructions and will ultimately be able to advise on a timeline to resume normal activities and routines, typically based on progress monitoring at follow-up appointments.

How Long Does Fat Transfer Last?

The results of a fat transfer procedure can be long-lasting, but they are not entirely permanent and outcomes can vary from person to person. Typically, most of the transferred fat is able to successfully integrate into the new area, while the rest is naturally absorbed by the body. Once stabilized, the surviving fat can last for many years. However, results can be influenced by factors such as weight fluctuations, aging, and lifestyle choices. Occasional follow-up treatments and maintaining a stable weight can help prolong the effects of a fat transfer.

Are There Side Effects to Fat Transfer?

While mild side effects are often associated with fat transfer, serious complications are rare. Common side effects include swelling, bruising, and temporary numbness at both the donor and recipient sites. In some cases, there might be uneven texture, lumps, or asymmetry in the treated areas. Additionally, some of the transferred fat may not survive, leading to less of a volume increase than expected. Dr. Coberly will discuss the risks of this procedure beforehand and explain how she can help mitigate those risks.

How Much Does Fat Transfer Cost?

The cost of fat transfer procedures often vary greatly since the treatment is customized and is capable of addressing an array of cosmetic concerns for each patient’s unique needs. Dr. Coberly will perform a comprehensive evaluation of your treatment goals, determine whether you are a good candidate, and create an individualized plan. The price of this treatment will be based on a number of factors, including:

The experienced staff at Coberly Plastic Surgery & Med Spa will be able to review your estimated price quote once the treatment plan has been designed. We will be happy to talk with you about the convenient payment options available at our practice, including plastic surgery financing arrangements that offer qualified applicants a way to bring this procedure into their budget by setting up a monthly installment plan.

If you have additional questions about fat transfer treatments, or if you are ready to schedule a consultation with Dr. Coberly, please contact us today.