Questions about Fat Transfer

What is a fat transfer?

A fat transfer is an injectable filler procedure. Instead of using commercial fillers, it uses your own fat that has been collected and refined. Fat is collected from your abdomen or thighs, then liquefied and prepared for injection into the site you are having plumped.

What areas of my body are suitable sites for fat transfer?

Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Lapuerta performs fat transfers to plump and reshape lips, face and buttocks and other areas of your body that benefit from plumping. The fat can be used to help define your cheeks, chin or neck providing you do not have excessively loose skin. Fat transfer is great for plumping areas that show creases or wrinkles. For more severe wrinkles or very loose skin a face lift or eye lift might give better results.

What are the benefits of having a fat transfer?

Fat transfer might be an excellent choice if you think you might have a reaction to commercial fillers, or are uncomfortable with the thought of putting something foreign into your body. While most other fillers are unlikely to cause allergic reactions, people vary in their response to treatments. Fat transfers use you own body fat, so there will be absolutely no rejection or allergic reaction.

Who is a good candidate for fat transfer?

If you are in good health, free of chronic disease such as diabetes or autoimmune disease, and a non-smoker, you are very likely a good candidate for a fat transfer. Dr. Lapuerta’s cosmetic surgery evaluation of your medical history and physical exam ensures that nothing has been overlooked that could put you at risk for plastic surgery complications from a fat transfer procedure.

How is a fat transfer performed?

You will be given a local or topical anesthetic to numb the areas where fat is extracted and injected. After processing the fat to the proper liquid consistency, it is injected into the intended sites to form the desired contours. Dr. Lapuerta may inject extra fat anticipating that some will likely be reabsorbed. The extra fat may cause you to look a bit swollen for a few weeks even after the limited swelling from the injection sites has resolved.

What should I expect after a fat transfer?

After your fat transfer surgery, you may experience some swelling, minor bruising or minor discomfort at the sites where fat was collected or injected. Swelling and bruising generally resolves quickly, as does any pain or discomfort. Your skin may also be red near the injection sites for a day or two. Dr. Lapuerta recommends that you stay out of bright sunlight until all swelling and redness is gone.

For more information about how fat transfer can reduce wrinkles or reshape your features, please contact plastic surgeon Dr. Leo Lapuerta at The Plastic Surgery Institute of Southeast Texas today. We serve patients in Houston, Sugar Land, Pearland and Friendswood, Texas.