Procedures Menu

Fat Transfer FAQs

What are fat transfer injections?
The fat injection procedure, also known as autologous fat transplantation, involves the extraction of fat cells from one part of the body which are then reinjected beneath the facial skin to improve deep facial wrinkles, furrows and creases, sunken cheeks, skin depressions, thin lips, and some types of scars. The fat may be taken from the abdomen, buttocks, thighs, and other areas. The results of fat injection are not permanent and typically require a maintenance plan in order to sustain their effectiveness.

Who is the best candidate for fat transfer?
The best candidate for fat transfer is a man or woman who is physically healthy, psychologically stable, realistic in their expectations, and is looking to improve the appearance of their facial skin.

View fat transfer patient photos Learn about fat injections Contact us about fat transfers

Are there any limitations to fat transfer injections?
Severe surface wrinkles of the face, such as those around the mouth, are often better treated with other procedures like chemical peels, dermabrasion or laser treatments. Deep folds in the face or brow caused by loose skin or overactive muscles may be better treated with a browlift or facelift. Fat injections is not appropriate for all areas of the body, particularly the breasts. The best results tend to be obtained on areas that are relatively stationary, like the cheeks.

What can I expect during a consultation for fat transfer?
Your doctor will evaluate your face, including the skin, muscles and underlying bone, and take a thorough medical history. He or she will discuss your goals for surgery, your treatment options and any potential risks or complications. Be sure to advise your doctor of any and all medications that you are currently taking.

Where is the fat transfer procedure performed?
Most fat transfer procedures take place in a surgeon's office. When combined with other surgical procedures, such as a facelift, they may take place in a hospital.

Is anesthesia used for the fat transfer procedure?
Local anesthesia is typically used on the donor and recipient sites. Some patients also receive sedation.

How is fat transfer performed?
The donor and recipient sites are first cleansed and treated with a local anesthetic. A syringe which is attached to a suction device is used to withdraw fat from the donor area. The withdrawn fat is prepared and then reinjected into the facial area with a needle. The recipient area is overfilled to allow for fat absorption in the weeks following the procedure. An adhesive bandage may be applied over the treated area.

How long does the fat transfer procedure last?
Fat transfer injections generally take under an hour to perform.

Is the fat transfer procedure painful?
Patients typically experience minimal discomfort. Medication can be prescribed by your doctor to help control any discomfort that you may experience.

Will I be able to drive myself home after the fat transfer procedure?
There is generally little or no downtime after the fat transfer procedure. However, patients receiving sedation will need to arrange for a ride home after their procedure.

What is the recovery like after fat transfer?
Fat transfer procedures generally involve little or no downtime and patients are typically able to immediately resume their normal activities. Patients having large areas treated, however, may need to take it easy for a brief time. Swelling, bruising or redness can occur in the donor and recipient areas. Sun exposure should be avoided until the redness and bruising subside, typically around forty-eight hours after the procedure. Some swelling and puffiness can remain for several weeks.

How much time will I need to take off from work after fat transfer?
Patients are typically able to immediately resume their normal activities after the procedures, though patients having large areas treated are typically advised to take it easy for a brief time.

What are the risks or complications of fat transfer injections?
Fat transfer procedures typically involve little risks. Some of the potential risks that can occur include infection, adverse anesthesia reaction, hematoma, asymmetry, and excess scar tissue.

How much does a fat transfer procedure cost?
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) the average surgeon/physician fee charged by their member doctors for fat injection in 2004 was $1226. Being a surgeon/physician fee only this does not include fees for the anesthesiologist, the facility or other related expenses.

Does insurance cover fat transfer procedures?
Fat injection is typically not covered by insurance when used purely for cosmetic reasons, though coverage may be available to some degree for procedures used to treat a scar or indentation resulting from an injury or accident. Be sure to check with your own insurance carrier regarding the degree and/or availability of coverage.

Is it possible to get financing for a fat transfer procedure?
Financing is available for facial plastic surgery procedures. Your plastic surgeon should be able to provide you with further information about financing.

What should I look for in a surgeon to perform my fat transfer procedure?
It's important that you do your homework and carefully choose the surgeon to perform your procedure. First, make sure that the surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons (ABPS). This ensures that they've completed the proper training to safely conduct your procedure according ABPS standards. You can visit the ABPS's website at www.plasticsurgery.org to locate a certified plastic surgeon in your area. You should also ask any potential surgeon the following questions:

• Does the surgeon have privileges to perform surgery in an accredited hospital and, if so, which hospitals?
• How many fat transfer procedures has the surgeon performed?
• Where and how will the procedure be performed?
• Is the surgical facility accredited by a nation or state-recognized accrediting organization?
• What are the risks of your particular procedure?

Are the results of fat transfer permanent?
The results of fat transfer injections are typically not permanent. The injected fat will eventually be reabsorbed into the body. The length of results will vary among patients. Some patients may experience results that last for a year or more, but most patients can expect the results to last on average between three and six months. Repeat injections are typically needed in order to maintain results.

Fat transfer explained in detail as well as dermabrastion.