Fat Grafting-Fat Transfer
Fat grafting can be used as a way to improve and enhance the cosmetic appearance of many parts of the body including the face, breast, hips, buttocks and even arms or the hands.
Fat grafting, also known as fat transfer or fat injections, is the process by which fat is surgically transferred from one area of the body to another area. The surgical goal is to improve the appearance, contour, or volume of the area where the fat is injected. The technique involves harvesting fat by liposuction. The fat is then processed and injected into the area needing improvement.
Fat Grafting Process
The process of fat grafting involves three steps:
- extraction of the fat from the donor area with liposuction
- decanting, centrifugation, and processing of the fat
- reinjection of the purified fat into the area needing improvement
In the first step, fat is extracted from a donor area using liposuction techniques. Laser or ultrasonic liposuction should not be used for the extraction as it may destroy the fat cells.
The fat is then processed with centrifugation, a separation technique, used to separate debris, excess fluid, and dead cells from the healthy fat cells. An alternate method is to wash the fat with a sterile saline solution. The fat that utimately is discarded is the fat that will likely not survive in the graft.
In the final step, the fat is reinjected in small increments throughout the subcutaneous tissue of the recipient area.
The amount of fat injected is measured in cc's and ultimately varies according to patient case specifics and the area of the body where the processed fat is being injected.
Expected Fat Grafting Results
Expected results of fat grafting to the face is restoration of youthful appearance by adding volume to hollowed out or wrinkled areas such as the area below the eye and the nasolabial folds. It can also help repair scars and add volume to the cheeks to create the appearance of higher cheekbones. Lastly, the texture and appearance of the skin can be improved.
Fat grafting to the breast can be expected to correct breast contour and enhance volume. It can also repair radiation tissue damage and can treat breast implant capsular contractures. Additionally, it can help correct scar deformities from lumpectomy or breast reconstruction.
Fat grafting to the hips can add volume if a more “feminine profile” and better waist-hip ratio is desired.
Fat grafting to the buttocks can make the buttocks appear fuller.
Contact us to schedule a consultation. Carmel Cosmetic and Plastic Surgeons provides a supportive environment in which you can feel at ease to discuss your goals. Our physicians, Dr. Elizabeth Grasee and Dr. Debra Bergman, will help you decide the best course of action to achieve the desired outcome.We are committed to guiding you towards a solution that aligns with your personal preferences and maintains your health.
