If you’re considering a fat transfer procedure to enhance your physique, you’re not alone. Our team offers this popular cosmetic option to help you achieve a more sculpted and natural look by transferring fat from one area of your body to another. At Best Plastic Surgery Practice in Lawndale, California, you can rely on John Walker, MD, and our team to give you the expert guidance and care needed if you are considering this procedure.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision.
Fat transfer, also known as fat grafting or lipofilling, is a cosmetic procedure that involves removing fat from one part of your body — such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks — via liposuction. The extracted fat is then purified and carefully injected into another area, such as your buttocks, breasts, or face, to enhance volume and contour.
This procedure is ideal if you want to achieve natural-looking results without synthetic implants. It’s also a dual-benefit treatment: You can slim down areas with excess fat while enhancing others that need more volume.
Your journey begins with a thorough consultation with Dr. Walker. During this appointment, you’ll discuss your goals, medical history, and any concerns you might have. He’ll evaluate your body to determine whether you have enough donor fat and are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
Fat transfer is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of your treatment. The first step involves liposuction to harvest the fat. Once extracted, we remove the impurities from the fat, leaving only the healthiest fat cells for reinjection.
Last, Dr. Walker strategically injects the purified fat into the target areas to achieve the desired shape and volume.
The procedure usually takes 2-4 hours, but this can vary based on your treatment areas.
Recovery time depends on the extent of your procedure. You can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in both the donor and target areas. Most patients return to their daily activities within a week, but you may need to avoid strenuous activities for 4-6 weeks.
Not all transferred fat cells survive; typically, about 60%-80% of the injected fat remains long term. Final results become visible after swelling subsides, usually within 3-6 months.
Fat transfer offers a natural and minimally invasive way to enhance your physique. Because the procedure uses your own fat, there’s minimal risk of allergic reactions or rejection. However, it’s important that you maintain a stable weight postprocedure, as significant weight fluctuations can affect the results.
A fat transfer procedure can be a transformative experience, but we encourage you to approach it with realistic expectations and Dr. Walker’s guidance. Take your time to research, ask questions, and ensure you’re fully prepared for the journey toward your ideal physique.
To learn more about how a fat transfer works and how it can be tailored to your desires, book an appointment today.
