Fat Transfer
What Is Fat Transfer?
Also known as fat grafting, fat transfer is a process in which fat from one part of the body is harvested through liposuction, purified, and then injected into another part of the body. The injected tissue enhances the contour of the injection site.
Fat grafting is often used to enhance facial features, smooth away facial lines and wrinkles, increase the size of the breasts, and restore the appearance of the hands.
Common Parts of the Body
Where Surgeons Harvest Fat
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- Abdomen
- Flanks (love handles)
- Inner thighs
- Outer thighs
- Buttocks
- Upper arms
The Benefits of Fat Transfer
Removes Unwanted Body Fat
Since liposuction is performed to remove body fat, patients get to target stubborn areas of the body that do not respond to diet or exercise. This means they can benefit from body contouring surgery in addition to cosmetic rejuvenation.Eliminates the Risk of Allergic Reaction
While generally safe, dermal filler injections could trigger an allergic reaction in some patients. Fat grafting avoids these adverse side effects and complications since a patient's own body fat is used to achieve cosmetic enhancement.Natural-Looking Results
The results of a fat transfer can be quite dramatic, helping you look younger, more refreshed, and vibrant. We have helped countless patients at our Minnetonka practice achieve dramatic outcomes thanks to this plastic surgery procedure."Dr. Peng and her staff are kind & caring. They take their time with you and explain things thoroughly. Dr. Peng has made me feel very comfortable with my treatment & I am very happy I choose her to be my Doctor." Dana, 5-Star Review
Is Fat Transfer Right for Me? Speak with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Many people throughout Minnesota want to look younger and more refreshed but want to limit visible scarring and downtime. A fat transfer by Dr. Stephanie Peng may be the answer you've been waiting for.
A proud member of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Peng has served the greater Minneapolis, MN, area for years. Her work in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery has changed lives for the better. She takes great pride in her craft and the difference it can make, always focusing on the needs of the patient before, during, and after surgery.
If you want to discuss fat transfer with a board-certified surgeon, contact SP Plastic Surgery online. You can also schedule an appointment at our office in Minnetonka, MN, by phone.
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(763) 999-4170
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How Long Does Fat Grafting Last?
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The results of fat grafting can last for many years. However, some of the injected tissue will be reabsorbed back into the body in the months after treatment. The fat that remains after several months have passed will be there permanently, leading to long-lasting cosmetic benefits.
Fat Transfer for Breast Enhancement
An Alternative to Breast Implants
While many people visit plastic surgeons in Minnesota for breast implants, fat injections can also be used to enhance the size and shape of the breasts. Patients can experience fuller and larger breasts simply through the injection of their own body fat.
How Much Can I Increase My Breast Size?
This varies based on a patient's existing breast tissue and the amount of excess body fat they have. Generally, fat transfer will not achieve as dramatic a size increase as implants. During your consultation at our Minnetonka, MN, practice, we can discuss your goals and what option would be ideal for you.
Fat Injection after Breast Reconstruction
In addition to breast augmentation, fat injections can be used to help enhance the results of breast reconstruction surgery. It's well paired with autologous tissue procedures such as flap reconstruction.
"Dr. Peng is a wonderful doctor who is communicative, professional,
and extremely reassuring... I always feel well informed and listened to.
She clearly cares for and respects her patients." Thrunk Chudham - 5 Star Review
The Fat Transfer Procedure
Fat Harvesting through Liposuction
Liposuction is performed on the abdomen, flanks, thighs, buttocks, or arms. Small incisions are made to insert a cannula and extract body fat. The incisions are only a few millimeters in length, which means there is very little visible scarring.
Purifying the Harvested Fat
Before a plastic surgeon can inject the harvested fat, it must be purified. This is achieved using a centrifuge. The centrifugal force separates fat cells from dead cells and other substances in the body.
Injecting the Body Fat
The final stage of the fat transfer procedure involves the injection of body fat. The exact amount of fat administered to the face, breasts, or buttocks will depend on the needs of the patient.