Autologous Fat Transfer

Autologous fat transfer surgery involves the transferring of fat from one part of the body to another. The most common areas for this include the buttocks and breasts.

What Is An Autologous Fat Transfer?

If you feel like you have excess fat in some areas of your body, but not enough in others, then liposculpture may be the right treatment for you. It’s often a solution for those who want breast or buttocks enlargement but don’t wish to have implants.

How To Prepare For Fat Grafting Surgery

We want to you to feel as prepared as possible before treatment. So, before you choose to undergo any operation, we’ll invite you in for a consultation. During this consultation the surgeon will be asking you questions about your medical history. You’ll need to be open and honest at this time so the surgeon can understand exactly what your expectations are. Should you choose to go ahead with the procedure, you will need to follow the surgeons advice on the following, 6 weeks before surgery:

  • Don’t take herbal supplements or anti-inflammatory tablets
  • Stop smoking
  • Don’t take any aspirin

Additionally, it’s important that you have a friend or relative who is able to collect you after surgery. You should also take time off work, usually about 2 – 3 weeks.

What Happens During The Procedure?

Cosmetic fat transfer can take between 1 to 2 hours and is usually performed under general anaesthetic. In this procedure, the fat is extracted with a syringe most commonly from the thighs, tummy and flanks. If larger amounts of fat are required to be removed, then this is usually removed with body-jet liposuction. Once the fat is removed, it’s spun in a special machine called a centrifuge to get rid of any dead cells or blood. It’s then re-injected into the desired area.

Due to the nature of this the autologous fat transfer procedure, stitches aren’t usually needed as the fat is injected using a small needle. If a large area is being treated, then you may require more than one session.

Aftercare

You’ll probably experience some pain and swelling after the surgery so you may wish to take some painkillers. Additionally, you will be required to wear a compression garment for a few days after treatment. It’s important to follow the aftercare advice from your surgeon which includes:

  • Avoid exercise and strenuous activity
  • Keep the area as dry as possible
  • Avoid driving

Around a week after surgery you’ll be checked over in the dressings clinic to ensure your recovery is going as smoothly as possible.

Results

You’ll need to wait for the swelling to go down to be able to see the final results. After a few months you’ll be left with plumper, firmer-looking skin. It’s important to note that there is a risk of a percentage of the fat being reabsorbed back into the body.