Overview
The injection of fat is used to treat various types of plastic surgical conditions.
It can be used to add volume to:
It is sometimes used in conjunction with breast reconstruction operations to aid in symmetry and to make implants feel softer. Fat can also be used in the foot as a natural cushion to help reduce pain, ulcers, and callouses.
Who Is a Candidate?
Adults over age 20 are candidates for this form of rejuvenation.
Before the Procedure
Your plastic surgeon will perform a detailed analysis of the area you desire to have treated. You should speak with your prescribing physician regarding the use of blood thinners. These medications can cause bruising and swelling.
Procedure Details
In the office or in the operating room, the part of your body receiving the fat injections will be numbed with topical agents and/or an injection of a local anesthesia. General anesthesia may be used for larger procedures or procedures combined with other operations.
Fat will be removed from another area (such as the belly or thighs) by liposuction, and then transferred to the desired area (such as the face, breast, or foot).
Where Will the Procedure Be Performed?
The procedure may be done in the plastic surgeon’s office, or in a hospital operating room.
Type of Anesthesia
Topical anesthesia can be used or your plastic surgeon may wish to inject a nerve blocking agent to numb a specific area of your body. For larger cases, general anesthesia may be necessary.
Immediate Recovery
Compression garments may be necessary on the liposuction area. Compression is sometimes required on the area where the grafts are placed. For fat grafting to the foot, special pads may need to be placed in a comfortable shoe to prevent too much pressure after the injections.
Risks
The risks of the procedure are minimal and can include:
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Asymmetry
Not every person is a candidate for this procedure, and your risks may be greater or different than those of other patients. Your plastic surgeon will review all potential risks and complications with you prior to the procedure.
Sometimes only 50-80% of the fat that is injected may “take,” requiring more procedures to get to the desired result.
Anticipated Results
Fat injections usually result in an improvement and enhancement in the area(s) that are treated.
There may be:
- A softening or elimination of a crease
- Filled wrinkles or areas of the face
- Enhanced lips or breasts
- Increased the padding of the foot
