Over time skin tends to lose some of its elasticity on areas of the face and body. Fat transfer, also known as autologous fat transplantation, fat grafting or fat injection, is a common cosmetic procedure used in body contouring and facial rejuvenation to restore volume loss. This procedure transfers fat from areas such as thighs, buttocks and abdomen. The fat is injected into areas lacking volume such as face, breast and buttocks (known as a Brazilian Butt Lift). This tailored surgical procedure produces long-lasting, natural results. Since it is from your own body, it reduces the chance of an allergic reaction to a foreign substance.

Facial creases such as laugh lines, smile lines, forehead wrinkles and crow’s feet can be filled with harvested fat from the abdomen, thighs or other such areas. Acne scars and sunken areas of the face, lips, and cheeks can also be filled in. This procedure provides a more long lasting correction over the use of temporary fillers. 

Before and After

Fat Transfer to Face

Patient A - 1 of 3
Fat transfer to the breasts - 2 months post-procedure

Patient A - 2 of 3
Fat transfer to the breasts - 2 months post-procedure

Patient A - 3 of 3
Fat transfer to the breasts - 2 months post-procedure

Fat Transfer to Buttocks

Patient B - 1 of 3
Fat transfer to the breasts - 6 months post-procedure

Patient B - 2 of 3
Fat transfer to the breasts - 6 months post-procedure

Patient B - 3 of 3
Fat transfer to the breasts - 6 months post-procedure

Fat Transfer to Buttocks

Fat Transfer to Buttocks

Fat Transfer to Face

Patient C - 1 of 3
Fat transfer to the breasts - one year post-procedure

Patient C - 2 of 3
Fat transfer to the breasts - one year post-procedure

Patient c - 3 of 3
Fat transfer to the breasts - one year post-procedure

Fat Transfer to Face

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Who is a good candidate for fat transfer?

    Fat grafting or fat transfer can be used in many areas of the body and combined with other procedures. It’s best for individuals who desire a more long lasting correction over the use of temporary fillers, wish to improve body contouring and facial rejuvenation.

    In the breasts, fat transfer can be used to fill in breast irregularities, enhance breast implants, or increase breast volume. If you wish for a modestly larger breast size, you are the ideal candidate. Those who desire a significant increase in breast size may want to consider breast augmentation.

  • How long does fat transfer last?

    Not all the fat cells that are transferred will “take.” Patients can expect to lose 30-40% of the transferred fat cells within the first six months. It takes 6-12 months to see the final results, which will remain as long as their weight remains stable.

  • How much does fat transfer cost?

    Fat transfer to the face pricing begins at $3,500. Breast and body procedures range from at $12,500 to $21,000. Contact ICLS to see what fat transfer and body contour options are available for you.

Aftercare and Recovery

As with all cosmetic surgery procedures, you will need to recuperate for a brief period following a fat grafting procedure. The recovery period for fat grafting will be different for each individual based on the extent of your surgery, the area of your body affected and the amount of fat cells being removed and being transferred. There will be some swelling, bruising and discomfort. These may last only a few days, or it could take a few weeks to recover, again based on the extent of your surgery.

The area where the fat has been harvested will have a very small incision less than 0.5cm. The injected recipient site will be swollen and reddened for a few days and this is normal. Swelling may persist for up to 7-10 days and will subside over time. You will be asked to wear a support garment for a few weeks.

 

Our Specialist

Dr Julie Khanna ICLS Dermatology and Plastic Surgery Female Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Julie Khanna

Our internationally-renowned, double board-certified plastic surgeon is considered a leader in breast reshaping, body contouring and facial anti-aging procedures. Combining well-honed surgical skill with a commitment to ethical care, Dr. Julie Khanna looks beyond the procedure to the patient as a whole, from inner self to outer beauty.

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