Everyone has something about themselves that they do not like, whether it is their profile, their hips, or their buttocks. Autologous fat transfer (also known as fat injection) is a method of body contouring that involves the reshaping of undesirable parts by removing fat from where it is excessive and augmenting areas that are deficient. Of all the methods for volume correction, fat transfer is one of the most intriguing.

Are you a candidate?

Fat transfer is “autologous” because it is derived from the same individual in whom it is used. The procedure plumps up body regions with a patients own fat and is a popular alternative to other synthetic methods. Fat injections to the body are a safe, natural and nonallergenic procedure designed to recontour your body and provide definition to your hips, waist, arms, legs, and buttocks.

Why do you have to repeat the injections?

The problem with fat injections has always been the variability in consistency and duration of results. If the fat injected into the body (or face) does not establish a viable blood supply it will not survive the transfer. Often, this necessitates multiple fat transfer sessions to obtain lasting symmetrical results. This difficulty has made traditional fat transfer less popular than other filling agents.

No repeat injections with PRP

With the introduction of PRP (platelet rich plasma), autologous fat transfer has entered a new era. Pioneered by Dr. Abuzeni in the late 90s, PRP Enriched Autologous Fat Transfer promises to deliver where previous fat injections could not. With an emphasis on muscle volume correction and three-dimensional cosmetic restoration Dr. Abuzeni’s technique is much more than a new technique for wrinkle reduction. It is a viable, and often better, alternative to buttock and hip augmentation. PRP Enriched Autologous Fat Transfer is also used to augment the biceps, re-establish symmetry, calf augmentation, and hand rejuvenation.

The PRP Enriched Autologous Fat is not likely to require multiple injections and is more likely to be permanently lasting after the first treatment.

What is the procedure?

In this technique, tiny fragile fat cells are extracted and moved from one part of the body to another. PRP is added to the fat cells before they are injected. This highly individualized procedure is used to enhance specific areas of the face and to correct asymmetry.

Can you undergo autologous fat transfer and other procedures simultaneously?

Autologous fat transfer is performed with Liposuction to harvest the fat and shape the body. And it may also be performed together in conjunction with Breast Augmentation to accentuate the shape of the breasts and the body silhouette.

What will the recovery period be like after surgery?

The stitches used to close the incisions are usually removed within a week.

Are the effects permanent?

Fat transfer can minimize the appearance of aging for years; however, it does not stop the clock. As time passes, you may want to repeat the procedure. The transplanted fat cells are expected to permanently remain in their new location.

What are the risks of fat transfer?

Complications are rare and usually minor. Infection and bleeding are rare but may occur. You can reduce your risk of complications by closely following your surgeon’s instructions before and after surgery.

How do you prepare for surgery?

You will receive specific instructions to prepare for the procedure, including guidelines on eating and drinking, taking and avoiding certain vitamins and medications, and not smoking. Carefully following these instructions will help your surgery and your recovery proceed more smoothly.

Where is the procedure performed?

Fat transfer is usually performed in our office-based facility or an outpatient surgery center. However, it is occasionally performed in a hospital.

What will the recovery period be like?

Although you should be up and about the day after surgery, plan on taking it easy for at least the first week. You should be able to shower within a few days. Most patients are back to work or school in less than a week. Vigorous physical activity should limited for several weeks, including jogging, bending, heavy housework, sex, or any activity that increases your blood pressure. Prolonged exposure to heat or sun should be limited for several months. Most of the visible signs of surgery should fade completely within about two weeks.

Most patients are pleased with the results. Often, patients do not realize how much enhanced their overall body beauty will be until after the procedure.