What is a fat transfer?
A fat transfer is a surgical procedure that uses liposuction to remove fat from an area on the body where the fat layer is thick. These fat deposits are collected and purified, then reinstated into another part of the body that needs volume. Common areas where a fat transfer may be performed include the breasts, buttocks, lips, and face. Fat transfers are performed to meet an aesthetic purpose. While the results are natural and beautiful, over time, some of the fat may be absorbed back into the body. Patients who desire a permanent result may consider silicone implants instead. It is important to find a surgeon that understands how to select, handle, process, and transfer the fat. Las Vegas, NV board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Christopher Khorsandi studied under one of the top fat grafting surgeons in the world and has both expanded and improved upon the techniques he has mastered. Lipo with fat transfer costs can vary from patient to patient based on the amount of fat to be transferred, the number of areas of liposuction, and the number of areas the fat is going to be placed. A consultation is required to determine if this procedure is right for you.
Fat Transfer Reviews
Read the VIP Section
Dr. Khorsandi's Approach
One of the major advantages of a body fat transfer is its holistic approach to augmenting and contouring the body or face. It is fat from the patient’s very own body and not a manufactured substance, which means there is no concern for rejection. However, due to the process of transferring the fat, not all of the fat cells survive the collection and some fat is reabsorbed once it reenters the body or face.
In his approach to fat redistribution, Dr. Khorsandi uses a special liposuction cannula to gently harvest the fat for filler. He carefully chooses from areas of "diet-resistant" fat to ensure lasting results that will not fluctuate with your weight. The fat selected will naturally contain concentrated cells, which are harvested along with the fat and preserved in the transfer. Nothing artificial is added, nor biologically manipulated before or after fat is replaced in a new position with fat injections.
Surgical Technique
During this outpatient procedure with general anesthesia, fat is removed from a preselected donor site via liposuction. If the donor site is small, a local anesthetic may be used instead. A special cannula is inserted into the area for collection, which will remove the fat deposits so that they can be purified by a centrifuge. Only the healthy fat will be used for reinjection, which will then be prepared in syringes for fat redistribution. Dr. Khorsandi will slowly reinstate the fat into the body part or facial area where volume, shape, and contours are needed. During the fat injection process, the area will be slowly massaged so the fat deposits settle in compact layers. Normally, multiple injections are necessary to create an even spread of fat and achieve an ideal outcome for using your fat for filler. Dr. Khorsandi is regularly asked to transfer fat into the breasts, buttocks, calves, under-eye area, face, and lips.
AFTER YOUR FAT TRANSFER
Expected Cost
Fat transfer costs will vary. Again, it will depend on the size of the area treated and how much fat was removed and transferred. The price can range as low as $3,000 – $5,000 and can go as high as $11,000.
Plan Your Procedure
- Average Cost
- $5,000 - $15,000
- Recovery Time
- Varies
- Average Procedure Time
- 1-3 Hours
- Post-op Follow-up
- 2 Weeks
- Procedure Recovery Location
- Out-Patient
Fat Transfer FAQs
How Long Do The Results Last?
Using your own fat to augment another area can last for many years. While the concern of fat reabsorption is something to consider, a skilled surgeon, like Dr. Khorsandi, will be able to maximize the outcome. He will perform the fat collection and fat redistribution by using his experience with time-tested techniques for liposuction and fat layering. There is an ongoing research study, which promises the long-term stability of these grafted fat tissues.
Do I need a Transfer + lift?
Patients who have excessive loose skin in the areas where they want a fat transfer may need more than just a filler to obtain the right look. For example, if a woman has excess loose skin and low tissue volume in her breasts, she would benefit from having a breast lift and fat transfer. Adding extra fat to the area will not give the breasts a perky, uplifted look. Dr. Khorsandi will discuss all the options that are available to get the right look when you want to use your own fat for breast enlargement or elsewhere.
Can I exchange my implants?
What about scarring?
Scarring is minimal during a fat transfer procedure. Any scars that remain will be small (either where the cannula or the syringe was inserted for the transfer). The incisions are usually placed in areas where they can be concealed by clothing.
