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R.S.B. Dermatology, Inc. & Cosmetic Surgery Center
Robert S. Bader, M.D. Board Certified in Dermatology • Ivy League Trained Physician • Fellowship Trained in Cosmetic Surgery and Mohs' Surgery Official Dermatologist & Dermatologic Surgeon for the Florida Panthers NHL Hockey Team • Voted one of America's Best Dermatologists 2004-2006
Fat Transfer |
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Dr. Bader is not performing this procedure at this time.
What is a fat transfer? A fat transfer, also called autologous fat transplantation, is a surgical procedure in which the fat is taking from one area of the body and placed in (transplanted to) another area of the body.
How is a fat transfer performed? Most commonly, fat is taken from the hip. Using tumescent anesthesia, a small area of fat the size of one's palm is numbed. Using a blunt hollow tube, called a cannula, a few teaspoons of fat are removed into several small syringes. The fat is then allowed to stand for several minutes. During this time, the fat separates to the top of the syringe as would oil a dilute water. The fluid at the bottom of the syringe is removed leaving mostly pure fat a dilute the syringe. This fat is then injected into the desired areas.
What is tumescent anesthesia? Tumescent anesthesia is a form of local anesthesia which is commonly used for liposuction. A dilute solution, containing mostly saline (neutral water with salt) and small amounts of lidocaine and adrenaline, is injected into the area in which fat is to be removed.
Does the procedure hurt? Most patients complain of mild discomfort during the procedure. This discomfort typically lasts for only a few minutes and is well tolerated by nearly all.
Can fat transfer be used to treat fine lines and fine wrinkles? No. Fat must be transplanted deep under the skin. Therefore, only deeper wrinkles and scars can be treated.
What areas are most commonly treated using fat transfer? Most commonly, the smile lines, lips, corners of the mouth, and frown lines are treated using fat transfer. Additionally, scars (including acne scars) on the face are commonly treated. Cheeks can be made fuller with fat injections as well.
How long do the results last after fat transfer? Most patients enjoy most of the benefits of fat transfer for six months or longer. With time, some of the transplanted fat may be degraded and "touch-up" procedures may be needed to maintain optimal results. Usually, there is permanent results seen.
What is the recovery after fat transfer? Some swelling may be seen in the area in which the fat is injected. The swelling may last three days or longer and is usually most pronounced in treating lips. There may be some discomfort felt in the area in which the fat is taken from. This discomfort is typically mild and easily relieved with Tylenol or a stronger pain medication.
Are there any restrictions of activity after fat transfer? Yes. What must refrain from any exertional activity for at least one week after fat transfer. If areas of the face are treated, one must limit talking and chewing to a minimum for one week.
Who should not have a fat transfer? Patients who are pregnant, breast-feeding, or are taking blood thinners (i.e. ibuprofen, aspirin, Plavix®, or Coumadin®) should not undergo a fat transfer.
What are the alternative treatments available? For deeper wrinkles and smile and frown lines, procedures such as Contour Threadlift & Facelift should be considered.
What are the benefits of fat transfer? The fat transfer uses one's own tissue while some other procedures utilize foreign substances.
Will I need a touch-up procedure? Depending upon the amount of correction needed, a touch-up procedure (i.e. additional fat transfer procedures) might be needed, and is often recommended. Additionally, the transplanted fat can occasionally feel lumpy under the skin. This often improves spontaneously over several weeks, although injections with a dilute corticosteroid may be necessary. |
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