Fat transfer is also known as fat injection, lipomodelling, fat grafting, or autologous fat transfer. It is a common non-invasive cosmetic procedure. The aim is to remove fat from areas where it is not wanted and transfer it to a part of the body where augmentation is needed for added aesthetic appeal.
Because fat transfer involves transferring your body fat, it is generally preferred to other options like implants. The number of fat transfer procedures has increased over the last couple of years, according to the American Society of Plastic surgeons.
What Is Fat Transfer?
A fat transfer is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that transfers body fat from one part of the body, usually the belly, hips, or thighs, to another.
Most people have fat transferred to their face (including the lips), breasts, and buttocks. The procedure can also be done as part of reconstructive surgery. The main aim of a fat transfer is to achieve some level of aesthetic and symmetry in body parts.
How Is Fat Transfer Done?
Fat transfer involves suctioning fat from a part of the body using liposuction. The surgeon extracts adipose fat and processes it before reinjecting it into the desired area needing extra contouring, like the lips, breasts, or buttocks. Laser or ultrasonic fat extraction should be avoided because it destroys the fat cells. Top fat transfer in Williamsville, NY, should not take longer than two hours.
Fat Transfer Recovery
After the fat transfer procedure, some transferred fat will naturally absorb and disappear as the injection site heals. Patients are advised to avoid movement at the injected site to prevent too much fat from disappearing. Sites like the hip do not typically hold onto fat very well, so you can expect some fat loss in these areas.
For the first three weeks, patients are advised to avoid spending time sitting down (if the fat was transferred to the buttocks) because this can lead to uneven absorption of the fat-causing an uneven look. Patients should spend their time on their stomachs (unless fat was transferred to the breasts) or standing. You should also avoid any strenuous activities like exercise or hard house chores. Do not massage, rub, or place any tension on the incisions for the first four weeks after surgery.
How Much Does Fat Transfer Cost?
The cost of a fat transfer varies with the places you want to get the fat transferred to. If you want to inject fat into your lips or the eye area, you may pay $2000 or more, not considering accruing fees. Patients who want their fat transferred to the breast or buttocks may get two or more separate procedures which can cost even more than regular breast augmentation procedures. You can expect to pay about $6,500 for a breast fat transfer and $8,500 for a buttock fat transfer.
Unfortunately, most health insurance covers do not cover the cost of a fat transfer since it is elective cosmetic surgery.
Are You a Good Candidate for Fat Transfer?
Fat transfer candidates should have a realistic approach to fat transfer. Fat transfer does not work the same as a filler injection, but it has advantages and disadvantages.
Fat Transfer Q&A
Who does a fat transfer procedure?
Fat transfer surgery should be done by a board-certified surgeon with training and experience in the particular area of cosmetic surgery. The procedure should be done in a reputable medical facility. Always check to confirm that your surgeon has hospital privileges in your chosen facility.
How many fat transfer procedures does it take to achieve the desired results?
For facial procedures, patients usually only require one fat transfer, although some may benefit from a second procedure.
For other areas, such as the breast and buttocks, you may require two to four sessions to correct depressions and uneven scarring. Frozen fat will not work, so fat should be used as soon as possible after purification.
How long does a fat transfer take?
A fat transfer can take up to two hours, depending on the treatment area and the patient’s goals. You can leave the hospital after the procedure because a fat transfer is usually an outpatient surgery. Patients are usually sedated during the procedure, and your doctor will use a local anesthetic so you will not feel any pain.
Does a fat transfer hurt?
No, you will not feel pain during the procedure. However, after the sedation wears off, you will start to feel some pain, at which point you can start the pain management medication your doctor has prescribed. You will also need someone to take you home and care for you during your recovery.
How long will my fat transfer last?
Some fat transfers can last several years or even decades, depending on how your body reacts to the fat cells. If your transferred fat establishes good blood flow, you are more likely to keep the results for a lifetime.
Where can I get liposuction for fat?
Fat can be extracted from any part of your body, including but not limited to:
- Thighs
- Knees
- Buttocks
- Back
- Bra rolls
- Calves and abdomen
