Fat injection, also known as fat transfer or fat grafting, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that involves removing fat from one area of the body and injecting it into another area to enhance volume and contour. This procedure is commonly used to enhance facial features, such as the cheeks and lips, and to correct contour irregularities in other areas of the body.
How It Works
During a fat injection procedure, fat is harvested from a donor area of the body, such as the abdomen or thighs, using liposuction techniques. The fat is then purified and processed before being injected into the target area. The injection process involves multiple small injections to ensure even distribution of the fat.
Benefits of Fat Injection
- Enhances volume and contour in target areas
- Provides natural-looking results
- Can be used to correct contour irregularities
-Long-lasting results
The Procedure
Fat injection is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of the procedure. The procedure can take several hours to complete, depending on the amount of fat being transferred and the areas being treated.
Recovery
After the procedure, patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in both the donor and target areas. Pain medication can be prescribed to manage discomfort. Most patients can return to work and normal activities within one to two weeks, depending on the extent of the procedure.
Who is a good candidate for fat injection?
A good candidate for fat injection is someone who is in good overall health, a non-smoker, and has areas of the body that would benefit from enhanced volume or contour. Candidates should also have enough excess fat in a donor area to harvest for the procedure.
What areas can be treated with fat injection?
Fat injection can be used to enhance volume and contour in many areas of the body, including the face, breasts, buttocks, and hands.
How long do the results last?
Results from a fat injection procedure can last several years, but this varies from patient to patient. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid excessive sun exposure to prolong the results.
What are the risks associated with fat injection?
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved. Some risks associated with fat injection include bleeding, infection, scarring, nerve damage, and asymmetry. However, serious complications are rare when the procedure is performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon.
How much does fat injection cost?
The cost of a fat injection procedure varies depending on the surgeon's experience, location, and the extent of the procedure. It is important to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine the cost of the procedure.
Is fat injection permanent?
While fat injection results can be long-lasting, the body will naturally absorb some of the transferred fat over time. Touch-up procedures may be necessary to maintain the desired results.