Overview
Fat transfer is a procedure that uses liposuction to remove fat from an area on the body where the fat layer is thick. These fats 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 plastic surgeon, Dr. Christopher Khorsandi, has 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 cost 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.
Dr. Khorsandi's Approach
One of the major advantages of fat grafting is that it is a holistic plastic surgery 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 no concern for rejection. However, due to the process of transferring the fat, not all of the fat cells survive and some fat is reabsorbed. Therefore, Dr. Khorsandi uses a special liposuction cannula to gently harvest the fat. He carefully chooses the fat from areas of “Diet Resistant” fat to ensure lasting results that will not fluctuate with your weight. The fat selected will naturally contains stem cells, which are harvested along with the fat and preserved in the transfer. Nothing artificial is added, nor biologically manipulated within the harvested fat.
Fat Transfer Reviews
Surgical Technique
During this procedure, fat is removed from the donor sites via liposuction. A cannula is inserted, which will remove the fat deposits so that they can be harvested and purified by a centrifuge device. During this process, only the healthy fat will be used for reinjection, which will then be prepared in syringes. The surgeon will slowly reinstate the fat into the body part where shape and contour are needed. During the injection process, the area will be slowly massaged so the fat deposits settle in compact layers for the best contour finish possible. Normally, multiple injections are necessary to create an even spread of fat and achieve an ideal outcome.
During/After Surgery
Fat transfer treatment is performed with general anesthesia when it covers larger areas while local anesthesia is used if the area to be treated is small. A good example of this is lip enhancement. Both methods will be treated as an outpatient treatment at an accredited surgical facility. The procedure will cause swelling and bruising on both the removal and injection sites. These side effects will subside in a few days. Recovery time depends on several factors, including how many body parts were involved in the surgery, as well as how much fat was transferred. Scarring is generally minimal with this procedure as the incisions made are just big enough for the cannula to be inserted.
Expected Cost
The cost for a fat transfer 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?
A fat transfer procedure can give results that will last for years. While the concern of fat reabsorption is something to consider, a skilled surgeon will be able to maximize the outcome by using the tested techniques in terms of fat layering. There is an ongoing research study that promises long-term stability of these grafted fat tissues, which involves Platelet Rich Plasma to enhance fat cells before transplanting them into the body.
Loss of Volume?
When properly performed, a fat transfer can last a long time. In areas where the fat does get resorbed, the area can continue to be tweaked. For patients who want to continue to have volume enhancement, but desire natural results (i.e., lip enhancement), this is an ideal procedure. This is especially the case for those who are not comfortable using an implant.
How 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.
Other Treatments?
For loss of facial volume, there are treatments that may be considered that will also produce positive results. For wrinkle problems, an injectable filler may be suitable. These fillers may include collagen or hyaluronic acid. For long-term results, patients may consider PMMA, an injectable filler that offers a semi-permanent solution. Every option can be discussed in detail during the initial consultation.
