Fat transfer, also known as fat grafting or fat injections, is an increasingly popular procedure for restoring volume and enhancing facial and body contours using a patient’s own fat. Below are some of the most common questions patients have about fat transfer.
What is fat transfer?
Fat transfer is a cosmetic procedure that involves removing fat from one area of the body—such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks—purifying it, and then reinjecting it into areas that need more volume. Common treatment areas include the face, hands, breasts, and buttocks.
What areas can be treated with fat transfer?
Fat transfer can be used to restore lost volume, improve contours, and enhance specific features. Common treatment areas include:
- Face – Restoring volume in the cheeks, temples, under-eye hollows, and lips
- Breasts – Enhancing volume, correcting asymmetry, or improving the results of a previous augmentation
- Buttocks – Increasing fullness through the Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)
- Hands – Reducing the appearance of veins and tendons for a more youthful look
- Vagina (labia majora) - Helps restore youthful fullness, improve contour, and address age-related or post-pregnancy volume loss.
Am I a good candidate for fat transfer?
Good candidates for fat transfer are individuals in overall good health who have sufficient fat to harvest. Ideal candidates are those looking for a natural enhancement rather than a dramatic change. Patients who smoke or have certain medical conditions may not be suitable for this procedure.
How is the fat transfer procedure performed?
The procedure is typically performed in three steps:
- Fat Harvesting – Fat is removed from a donor site (such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks) using gentle liposuction.
- Purification – The harvested fat is processed to remove impurities and excess fluids, leaving only healthy fat cells.
- Injection – The purified fat is meticulously injected into the targeted area using specialized techniques to ensure smooth, natural-looking results.
Is fat transfer a permanent solution?
Fat transfer provides long-lasting results, but not all of the transferred fat will survive. On average, about 60-80% of the injected fat remains permanently, while the body naturally absorbs the rest. To achieve optimal results, some patients may require a touch-up procedure.
How long is the recovery process?
Recovery varies depending on the treated area and the amount of fat transferred. Most patients experience some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort for a few days to a couple of weeks. Patients can typically return to work within a few days, but strenuous activities should be avoided for at least two to four weeks.
When will I see the final results?
Initial swelling may make the treated area appear fuller than expected. As the swelling subsides and some fat is absorbed, the final results will become apparent within three to six months. Once the fat stabilizes, the results are long-lasting.
Can fat transfer be combined with other procedures?
Yes! Fat transfer is often combined with other cosmetic procedures such as facelifts, liposuction, breast augmentation, and eyelid surgery to enhance overall results and provide a more comprehensive rejuvenation.
How do I know if fat transfer is right for me?
The best way to determine if fat transfer is a good option for you is to schedule a consultation with a board-certified cosmetic surgeon. During the consultation, your goals, medical history, and expectations will be discussed to create a personalized treatment plan.
Fat transfer is a natural and effective way to enhance your appearance using your own body’s fat. If you’re considering this procedure, consult with a qualified cosmetic surgeon to learn more about how it can help you achieve your aesthetic goals.
