FAT GRAFTING

Fat can be harvested from the donor site of your choice, these include:

• Lower abdomen or tummy area
• Upper abdomen or tummy area
• The flank area
• Inside of thighs
• Inside of thighs
• Outside of thighs

Fat can be transferred to:

• The temples
• The lower eyelid trough area
• The cheeks
• The nasolabials
• The marionettes
• The Chin
• The bridge of nose

How is Fat Transfer Done?

Fat transfer begins with the removal of fat from a donor area using a thin cannula through a small (approximately 2mm) incision. The fat is carefully suctioned out without the use of heat, ultrasound, or laser technologies, which may affect cell viability.

Once collected, the fat is processed to help maximize the survival of fat cells. The processed fat is then injected in small amounts, often described as microribbons, into the target areas. This technique helps distribute the fat evenly and supports its integration into the surrounding tissues.

The transferred fat survives by establishing a blood supply through natural processes involving blood vessel growth and integration. The extent of fat survival and retention can vary between individuals.

Benefits of Fat Transfer

• Uses your own tissue for augmentation.
• Contains plasma and other components naturally present in fat.
• Includes cells that may support tissue health.
• Fat is typically available in sufficient amounts once harvested.
• Studies report that a portion of the transferred fat may survive long term.
• Can improve the appearance of the donor site.
• The procedure can be repeated if necessary.

Recovery After Fat Transfer

• Mild to moderate swelling, bruising, and tenderness are common in both the area where the fat is harvested and where it is injected. These symptoms typically improve over 1 to 3 weeks.
• Some numbness or firmness may be experienced temporarily in the treated areas.
• Patients are usually advised to avoid strenuous physical activity, heavy lifting, or pressure on the treated areas for at least 1 to 2 weeks to support optimal healing and fat survival.
• It is important to follow all post-procedure care instructions provided by your surgeon, including wound care and activity restrictions.
• Follow-up appointments allow your surgeon to monitor healing, assess the volume retention, and address any concerns.
• The transferred fat settles gradually over several months as it integrates with the surrounding tissue and establishes a blood supply. Final results may take up to 6 months to fully appear.
• Additional treatments may be recommended if further volume restoration is desired.
  

Potential Risks and Considerations

• As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection, bleeding, and bruising at both the donor and recipient sites.
• Some of the transferred fat may not survive and be naturally reabsorbed by the body, which can affect the long-term volume and symmetry.
• Unevenness, lumps, or irregularities in the treated area may occur and sometimes require revision or correction.
• There is a small risk of fat necrosis (death of fat cells), which can cause firm lumps or cysts.
• Over- or under-correction is possible depending on individual healing and fat survival.
• Fat transfer is not recommended for individuals with certain medical conditions or unrealistic expectations; a thorough consultation with your surgeon is essential to assess suitability and discuss expected outcomes.
• Smoking and certain medications can impair healing and fat survival, so disclosure of all relevant medical history is important.
• Long-term outcomes vary based on patient factors such as age, skin quality, and lifestyle.