Fat Transfer
Q: Why Should I Consider Fat Transfer?
A: The beauty of a fat transfer is that the materials used to augment the desired body part are your own fat cells. This makes the procedure unquestionably biocompatible and non-allergenic. Also, a body fat transfer feels more natural than a body implant. The goal of the procedure is to improve the appearance of the localized body-part area that needs improvement.
Q: Is Fat Transfer Right for Me?
A: Exercise is the best way to improve the appearance of your body; however, aging and genetics may make workout programs unrealistic for certain small areas of the body. Genetically, fat may be unevenly distributed causing disproportional features. Patients in their mid 30s to 70s who have lost volume in a specific body area may benefit from fat transfers. Realistic expectations are extremely important in the decision for a fat transfer.
Q: How Long Will The Procedure Take?
The procedure may take up to two hours. The procedure is often performed under local anesthia which includes a combination of medications that make you feel sleepy and numbed, but awake.
Q: How Does Fat Transfer Work?
The procedure varies depending upon the technique used by the doctor and the area to be treated. The most commonly treated locations are the buttocks, chest, calf, and bicep or tricep muscles. The procedure can be described in three steps:
- Antiseptic is applied to two areas: 1) the location where the fat will be removed and 2) the treated area, where the fat will be injected.
- The fat cells are typically removed from the buttocks, stomach, or thighs using liposuction. The doctor uses a cannula (a thin hollow tube) that is connected to a vacuum device to remove fat cells.
- After the fat cells are suctioned by the cannula, the fat cells are processed and purified by the doctor. In some cases, the doctor will use a technique that spins the fat cells before the cells are injected beneath the skin. Some doctors do not spin fat. Different doctors may use different techniques of spinning fat. A bandage may be applied.
Q: What Results Can I Expect to See After the Procedure?
It takes three to four days for the first capillaries in the body to reach the transplanted fat cells. Unfortunately, during those three to four days, up to 40-60 percent of the transferred fat cells will die. For this reason, doctors will overfill the treated area to allow for the dissipation of transferred fat cells. Since many of the transferred fat cells may eventually be reabsorbed in the body, the results may be unpredictable. The results of fat transfers may last about three years. Many cases result in the transfer lasting a lifetime. Each time the procedure is repeated, more fat is accumulated in the treated area. This tends to offer longer-lasting results.
Q: When Can I Resume Normal Activities?
A.There is typically some swelling and some bruising. The swelling may last for several weeks. However, bruising will subside within a few days. The treated area may be reddened within the first 48 hours. Discomfort can be managed with oral medications. Scabs may form at injection site as well. Unmanageable pain or any symptoms that are progressive or abnormal should be reported to the doctor immediately. Normal activities can often be resumed almost immediately, except that you are advised to stay out of the sun. Patients should notice a marked improvement after the procedure. However, final results may not be evident for several months or longer.
Q: Are There Any Risks?
A: Complications are possible with any medical procedure, but complications from fat transfers are infrequent. The most common, but infrequent, complications of fat transfers include uneven skin texture, infection, abscess, excessive bleeding, or scarring. If fat is injected into two or more areas, patients may have asymmetry whereby the fat appears uneven in different areas. Treatment for complications can range from oral medications to surgical intervention, depending upon the extent of the complication. Following the doctor’s instructions before and after the procedure can reduce the risk of complications.
Consult a Qualified Physician
Talk to a qualified doctor about your goals and the treatment options available for your condition. A qualified doctor will help ensure the treatment is appropriate for your condition, increase the odds of success, and reduce the risk of complications.
