FAQ on Fat Grafting

You may be curious about the topic of fat grafting after hearing discussions or reading blogs addressing it. You may also be thinking about getting the procedure, but you still have some questions about it. Like many patients seeking cosmetic procedures, you are not alone. Here is a list of questions people frequently ask about fat grafting.

What Is Fat Grafting?

Fat grafting or fat transfer is a surgical procedure involving the removal and reinjection of your fat cells. The cosmetic surgeon removes it from one part of your body and injects it into another. Usually, they harvest the fat from your inner thighs, hips, lower abdomen, or flanks.

What Is the Goal of Fat Grafting?

The initial goal of fat grafting was to address contour irregularities in breast reconstructions. These irregularities occur because of tumor removal. Fat grafting softens the areas around the implants, giving them a softer, more natural appearance.

However, the use of fat grafting now includes:

• Enhancing volume in breast augmentations
• Providing a longer-lasting fullness for facial contours
• Volumizing the eyes and lips
• Smoothing lines and wrinkles in the skin

How Does a Surgeon Perform Fat Grafting?

The cosmetic surgeon marks the harvest and injection areas. They also highlight the incision sites before the procedure. Using liposuction, they harvest fat cells from your body. The surgeon purifies and processes the cells to get healthy ones. They introduce these healthy fat cells into the area of treatment. Sometimes, the procedure may require multiple visits to achieve desirable results.

Which Body Parts Respond Best to Fat Grafting?

Most parts of your body will respond well to this procedure. However, laugh lines and lips require several sessions before you get noticeable results.

How Long Does the Procedure Take?

The procedure takes 15 minutes to two hours, depending on the treatment area. The cosmetic surgeon needs to take their time to ensure you get the results you desire. To start that, they will put you under sedation. It will make the procedure easier to perform, and you will be comfortable. Make sure to get someone to drive you home when you are through.

How Long Does Recovery Take?

Depending on the treatment area, recovery can take a few days. It may also take as long as two weeks. It may require you to take some time away from work. Getting time away from work and taking some days off your schedule will ensure that you recover quickly and safely.

The treatment areas will be tender and swollen, so they need time for the inflammation to reduce. Remember to engage in some gentle stretches and movements to encourage and maintain proper circulation in your body.

How Long Will the Results Last?

Proper care and following the post-operative instructions will make your results long-lasting. The fat cells integrate with their new surroundings and create a new blood supply. It helps nourish them and keep them healthy. You also need to maintain a stable weight to keep your results. Otherwise, losing significant weight will interfere with your results, and they will not endure.

For more on fat grafting, visit Kenneth Bermudez, MD, at our office in San Francisco, California. You can call (415) 712-1800 today to schedule an appointment.