Fat transfer is a cosmetic procedure that uses one’s own body fat to enhance and restore volume in specific areas. Some people want to plump up areas where fat has been lost, such as the face, breasts, or buttocks. This is also called autologous fat transfer or fat grafting. By taking fat from one part of your body (donor site) and injecting it into another area, you can achieve more fullness and enhanced contours. This procedure has become very popular because it offers natural-looking results without synthetic implants. Many surgeons actually consider autologous fat to be the ideal filler medium because of its ready availability, ease of use, and biocompatibility. (1)
If you would like to explore the body-sculpting benefits of fat transfer procedures, please schedule a consultation. The team of expert physicians at Denver Liposuction Specialty Clinic are faithfully trusted across Colorado for providing excellent results, and they are well-prepared to help you achieve your aesthetic goals. Schedule your initial consultation online today, or call our Englewood office at (720)372-2155 with any questions you may have.
Contents
Before and After Photos
About Fat Transfer
Whether it is due the processes of aging, lifestyle, and genetic predispositions, fat tends to accumulate in unwanted places. Bulging fat deposits can imbalance your proportions, interfere with your daily life and confidence, and influence your choice of clothing. Conventional weight loss methods typically involve healthy dieting and a rigorous workout routine. However, stubborn pockets of fat tend to persist in areas where we desire a toned and defined shape. Even with strict adherence to traditional methods of weight loss, it can be difficult to see substantial results. If an active lifestyle and a healthy diet have not provided you with the results you want, fat transfer may be the ultimate solution for you. (1)
Compared to other cosmetic procedures, fat transfers have one of the fastest recovery times. When performed on the buttocks, the procedure goes by the name ‘Brazilian Butt Lift.’ The removal of fat from the abdomen and thighs and subsequent reintroduction to the buttocks helps patients achieve a slimmer midsection and a rounder, perkier buttocks.
While fat transfer procedures can provide stunning results, it is important to practice an active lifestyle after recovery. Making healthy food choices and participating in regular exercise are crucial steps you can take to maintain your results. Maintaining a stable weight will help ensure that nearby fat cells do not swell significantly and affect the appearance of the treated areas.
Benefits
One key benefit of fat transfer procedures is that they inherently benefit patients in two ways: one procedure offers patients the ability to reduce fat in certain areas and increase it in others. There are, however, several other perks that make fat transfers appealing to patients. At Denver Liposuction Specialty Clinic, our patients get to experience:
- Natural results: Utilizing your own fat creates a more natural appearance compared to synthetic fillers or implants.
- Minimal invasion: The procedure involves small incisions and utilizes liposuction, leading to shorter recovery times than traditional surgeries.
- Safety: Since the procedure uses your own tissue, there is a reduced risk of allergic reaction or rejection.
- Durable effects: The procedure can provide a long-lasting enhancement with proper care.
- Versatile applications: Fat transfer can improve multiple body areas, offering comprehensive rejuvenation across the face and body.
- Minimal scarring: Small incisions result in less noticeable scarring, allowing for excellent aesthetic outcomes.
- Boosted confidence: Many patients report increased self-esteem and satisfaction with their image after undergoing fat transfer.
Candidates
Ideal candidates for fat transfer should possess sufficient fat to safely harvest and transfer. Patients should also not smoke, have realistic expectations for the results of their treatment, and be in good overall health without serious underlying medical conditions. A personal consultation with a patient coordinator could help you determine if fat transfer is right for you.
Personal Consultation
Our surgeons are among the best in Denver and the United States. During the consultation before your procedure, you can ask as many questions as you want and learn vital insights regarding the fat transfer process.
A consultation at the Denver Liposuction Specialty Clinic begins with an in-depth discussion about your concerns and aesthetic goals. We will perform a thorough examination, assessing both the donor site and the area intended for enhancement. This step ensures a customized treatment plan tailored to your unique anatomy and desired outcomes. Your patient coordinator will also ask you about your medical history.
Preparation
After selecting your fat transfer procedure and scheduling it, you will receive comprehensive preoperative instructions to ensure a smooth experience. These steps help facilitate a safe surgical process and better recovery outcomes. These vary for each patient, catering to their medical history and goals. However, common preparation requirements include:
- Avoiding blood thinners, supplements, and medications as advised
- Ceasing nicotine use to support optimal recovery
- Filling prescriptions for pain management beforehand
- Arranging transportation home since anesthesia may be utilized
- Setting aside ample recovery time away from work and social engagements
Procedure
Fat transfer involves careful extraction, treatment, and injection of the extracted fat into areas in need of enhancement. (2)
Before modern advancements, fat transfer procedures were less effective for producing lasting results due to diminished survival rates of the transferred fat cells. There was only about a 40 to 50 percent survival rate of the transferred cells.
Technological advances in medicine have allowed patients to see greater results with fat transfer procedures. Older procedures involved crushing the fat before transfer; this considerably reduced the chances of survival for the transferred cells. Modern technology consists of the migration of dislodged fat in a relatively undisturbed state. A second adjustment in the procedure involves treatment of the fat before its subsequent reintroduction into a different body part. These changes brought about significant improvement, with studies showing that, with the new approach, an impressive 80 percent of the transferred fat survived past six months after the treatment. (2)
Your procedure starts with the identification of fat grafting sites. Your doctor will make a series of small incisions on this graft site. After this, they inject a tumescent solution of lidocaine, epinephrine, and saline to assist in the liposuction process. After inserting a liposuction cannula, fat is extracted. We use the Wells Johnson HVP system, which takes the fat out, transfers it into canisters, then sends it right back into the treatment area. This technology is specific for high volume fat transfers like those for the breast or buttock.
Recovery
Post-procedure, patients will experience some swelling and bruising, which are common following a fat transfer. Managing discomfort with prescribed medication and keeping the affected area elevated can help. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your healing progress. Typically, most patients return to normal activities within one to two weeks, depending on physical demands. Full results develop over a few months as swelling subsides and the fat settles.
You will receive more specific recovery instructions after your procedure. Because fat transfer can be performed all over the body, certain procedures may require other recovery measures. Because fat transfers offer dual benefits, it is important to remember that you will be recovering in two areas, not just one.
Results
Once fully healed, patients notice a fuller, rejuvenated appearance in the treated areas. With lasting changes in volume and contour, many feel a boost in their confidence and satisfaction with their bodies. All results appear natural and harmonious with the rest of the body—a goal achieved through careful planning and artistic techniques deployed by our surgeons.
Corresponding & Complementary Procedures
One of the most well-known fat transfer procedures is the Brazilian Butt Lift. In this procedure, more commonly known as a BBL, fat is harvested from the abdomen, flanks, and thighs, and is injected into the buttocks to sculpt a butt that enhances a patient’s body confidence.
Fat transfers can also be used to enhance the breasts, reduce facial sagging, and more.
Cost of Fat Transfers in Denver
The total cost of your fat transfer procedure will depend on how much fat is being harvested, what parts of the body are being treated, your appearance goals, and a few other factors. After you meet with a patient coordinator to discuss your goals, you will receive a price quote. If you have any further questions about procedures, payments, pricing, or anything else, please feel free to call our Englewood office at (720) 372-2155 and secure the information you need.
FAQ
What areas can be treated with a fat transfer?
Fat transfer can be used in various areas including the face (cheeks, under the eyes), breasts, and buttocks, allowing for a wide range of enhancements.
How long does the fat transfer procedure take?
Typically, fat transfer procedures take approximately two to four hours to complete, depending on the extent of treatment.
How long does it take to recover from a fat transfer?
Most patients can resume non-strenuous activities within one to two weeks. Patients should avoid vigorous exercise for longer.
Does fat always survive after transfer?
Not all injected fat will survive; however, with the proper technique employed, a significant portion of the fat generally remains for lasting results.
References
- Shauly O, Gould DJ, Ghavami A. Fat Grafting: Basic Science, Techniques, and Patient Management. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – Global Open. 2022;10(3):e3987. doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/gox.0000000000003987
- Abu-Ghname A, Perdanasari AT, Reece EM. Principles and Applications of Fat Grafting in Plastic Surgery. Seminars in Plastic Surgery. 2019;33(03):147-154. doi:https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0039-1693438
