Overview

Fat transfer surgery, also known as fat grafting, is a procedure that takes fat from one area of the body, then after the fat is harvested and purified, it can be transplanted it to another area. This cosmetic surgery is done to correct areas of the body that have become deflated or sallow by adding plumpness and volume. During a fat transfer procedure, Dr. Paresi first removes fat through liposuction, using one of several advanced liposuction techniques. During the initial consultation at the office in Downers Grove, IL, Dr. Paresi will discuss the steps of the fat transfer procedure and help the patient understand their options for liposuction, areas where the fat will be removed, and where the fat will be placed. Many Chicago area patients chose to have their body, face, lips, buttocks, and breasts cosmetically enhanced with a fat transfer surgery and love their new, natural results.

Fat Transfer Results

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Surgical Technique

During the consultation, the surgeon and patient will discuss what donor sites will be most suitable and desirable for fat removal. During surgery, fat is removed from the donor site using a cannula. The tissue will then be separated and purified so that only the healthy fat tissue remains for transplantation.

The fat is harvested using the Wells Johnson closed fat transfer system. The fat is then processed and transferred to the recipient site using the vibratory lipofilling technique with the MicroAire power-assisted device. The surgeon will simultaneously massage the area so that the fat settles where needed to create a satisfactory, smooth shape and contour.

Fat Transfer

After Surgery

A fat transfer is considered an outpatient procedure and is performed at an accredited surgical facility. In the majority of cases, especially where larger injection areas are concerned, general anesthesia will be used. For smaller areas, such as the lips, the surgeon will use a local anesthetic. After the procedure, the fat removal areas, as well as the injection sites may be swollen and red. This will subside in a short time. This procedure continues to be popular among patients because it offers little risk and little downtime, while delivering great results.

Expected Cost

A fat transfer procedure will vary greatly in terms of cost. The reason for the expansive price range is because there are two procedures that have to be accounted — liposuction and the actual fat grafting/transfer process. The price is subjective until it is known how much fat is going to be removed from how many body parts and where the transfers will take place.
Fat Transfer

Fat Transfer FAQs

Long-Lasting Results?
When performed by an experienced plastic surgeon, a fat transfer can result in an enhanced appearance that can last for years. While some of the fat will be reabsorbed back into the body, a skilled fat transfer expert will understand the proper mechanism behind creating a result that will last. There are new modern techniques available to help lengthen the life of the transferred fat cells. Plasma Rich Plasma is an example of this. When added to the transferred fat, it can increase the cell survival. This is a therapy that is still being studied.

A fat transfer typically results in long-lasting fullness. However, because a portion of the transferred fat will be reabsorbed into the body over time, some of the results may diminish. The good news is that this is a procedure that can be performed again very easily, resulting in additional body contouring and enhancement.

While fat transfers produce great results for many patients, there are other alternatives that some may consider. Luckily, the market for injectables is wide and diverse. An injection, such as BOTOX®, may produce the results some patient’s desire — especially where wrinkle correction is concerned. For patients desiring volume, there are countless filler products that offer many different choices and options. Some fillers, including collagen and hyaluronic acid, offer temporary outcomes, while the heaviest of fillers, PMMA, offer lasting results.

Still have a question?

At Contour Plastic Surgery & Med Spa, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way. We’re happy to answer your questions and help you feel confident in your choices. Contact us today to schedule your consultation — your journey to looking and feeling your best starts here!

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