The aim of liposculpture is to improve the bodies shape. The process does this by removing fatty tissue and usually this is enough. Occasionally though, the solution to a particular problem of shape may be to add fatty tissue to a depression which is there naturally in order to create a smooth outline. One of the most common situations this occurs is in an area to the side of the buttock and below the hip where many women have a natural depression. To create a smooth outline some of the fatty material from another area can be used to increase the volume of fat in this area, but the net result is a better cosmetic result.

Example

Here fat has been taken from the hips and re-injected to the depression just below. Liposculpture to the hip alone would not have been able to achieve such a regular outline.

Example

There may be an asymmetry to the body with a difference in volume between two sides. Fat transfer may help even this out.

Example

Scars and dimpling respond well to fat transfer also. First the skin is released from the underlying tissue and a small amount of fat in position to stop the skin from re-adhering to the muscle beneath.

Examples

This technique is very adaptable and can be used on the face to help with acne or other scars. Areas of the face or the chin can be enhanced and the lips can be made more youthful. Fat is often used as a substitute for collagen or more expensive products and unlike these, it can be permanent.

Excess fat can be prepared and frozen for up to a year so that if more is needed a small amount is defrosted and used as required.

Common questions about fat transfer

Who is a candidate for fat transfer?

Anyone can have some fat removed and re-injected either fresh or stored. As the fat is part of your own body (frozen fat is clearly marked with initials, time of removal and date of birth) it is not subject to rejection as would the tissue of someone else.

Is it permanent ?

It is normal to expect some of the fat transferred to reabsorb, so for many fat transfer procedures at least 2 treatments are needed. On the face 3 or 4 may be required. Usually there are a few months between treatments.

Are there any scars ? How does the area feel ?

Fat is injected through small incision points of the face which are virtually imperceptible and heal very quickly. Often the access points where the fat has been removed can be used to transfer the fat to an adjacent area. Sometimes the area where the fat has been transferred to can feel firmer for a period of time after the transfer.

What support garments are required ?

The compression suit used for liposculpture is all that is required. No compression is required if fat is transferred to the face.

How long does the procedure take ?

Most fat transfer procedures take only a few minutes to perform if done near the original site, longer if the fat is transferred to another area. knee reduction procedures take from between 1 to 1 1/2 hours.

How much time will I need off...?

In general take the same time off work as required for the liposculpture procedure performed. You should plan on taking a day off work. It would be about 3 weeks before normal gym activities or jogging should be restarted.

What about the cost ?

Most fat transfer procedures cost $1200-$1500 depending on the number of treatments required and the complexity of the treatment, but sometimes much less, especially if the area is next to an area being refined by liposculpture.

All of the " before and after" images used on this page have not been manipulated or enhanced in any way. There is no guarantee that other people will experience similar results to those shown here.

Body Areas