Fat transfer, also known as autologous fat grafting, is a surgical procedure that involves restoring lost volume in the face, breasts, or buttocks with the patient’s own fat, taken from the abdomen, thighs or other areas. This procedure is effective in treating sunken cheeks, facial lines, acne scars and other areas of lost volume that have developed as a result of aging, sun damage and other conditions. Transfer to the breasts and buttocks can vary from patient to patient. In general, naturally thin patients and patients who exercise aggressively retain less fat.
Unlike fillers and other volume-enhancing treatments, fat transfers are taken from the patient’s own body, and as a result cannot cause an allergic reaction. The fat is naturally accepted by the body. Autologous fat grafts also last longer than synthetic materials.
During the fat transfer procedure, fat is harvested from the donor area by inserting a cannula and gently suctioning out the fat, similar to liposuction. This is done under local anesthesia to minimize any potential discomfort. The harvested fat is then purified so that only the fat cells are grafted. Once the fat is ready to be placed, it is injected into the targeted area through a cannula until the desired appearance is achieved.
This procedure is performed on an outpatient basis at our state-licensed surgical facility in Lynnwood. Because of the different aspects involved, treatment time can vary significantly depending on each patient’s individual procedure.
Results and Recovery
Patients may experience mild swelling and bruising after the fat transfer procedure, which can be minimized by icing the area. Fat transfers usually last longer than fillers and other volumizing treatments, and are considered safe for most patients since no foreign material is being injected into the body.
Risks of Fat transfer
While fat transfer is considered safe for most patients, there are certain risks associated with any type of procedure. Some of these risks may include:
Need for multiple procedures
Infection
Bleeding
Scarring
Nerve damage
Under or overcorrection
To learn more about the fat transfer procedure, call us today to schedule a consultation and find out whether or not this procedure is right for you. Visit us for top-rated fat transfer in Seattle, Bellevue and nearby areas.