Fat Transfer Surgery: The Basics

Body fat transfer surgery involves using fat removed from one area of the body to augment another area, such as sunken cheeks, the buttocks, breasts, calves, biceps and triceps. This form of plastic surgery is often chosen for its very natural-looking results. More importantly, individuals elect fat transfer surgery because the procedure is biocompatible and non-allergic, since you are augmenting a body part with your own fat cells.

Fat transfer procedures are usually good options for those who have lost volume in a particular area of the body. If a regular exercise regimen has not improved the appearance of the problem area, fat transfer may be a good choice.

It is important to understand that fat transfer surgery often requires more than one treatment. When your fat cells are injected into another area of your body, you will absorb up to 60% of the body fat, leaving the remaining cells in the desired area. For this reason, your plastic surgeon will overfill the area you wish to augment, and within three to four days, your body will absorb many of the fat cells. Because it can be unpredictable just how many of the transferred fat cells will survive, additional treatments are often needed. During these procedures, additional fat cells will be added to the area, and this will offer long-lasting results for most individuals.

Unlike collagen injections, which usually last six to nine months, however, the fat cells remaining after the initial break-down typically last much longer, and sometimes forever.

As with any plastic surgery, fat transfer procedures may cause some side effects. These are infrequent, but may include uneven skin texture, infection, bleeding, or scarring. The chances of experiencing such side effects are significantly lower when you select a board-certified plastic surgeon with a record of success. It is very important to schedule a consultation with an experienced professional, who can determine whether fat transfer surgery is the right option for your needs. If you are interested in learning more about fat transfer procedures, set up an appointment to speak with a board-certified fat transfer specialist in your area.