OVERVIEW
A lack of volume in various parts of the body can make the area look hollow, droopy and undefined. Since the area could most likely benefit from some additional fat, a fat transfer can accomplish this by taking fat from another part of the body and transferring it to the area that needs a boost of volume. To transfer fat, Houston area cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Sumpter, will locate an area with abundant fat and use liposuction to remove it. After going through a cleansing process, Dr. Sumpter will inject the fat into the lacking body part. Fat transfers are useful for the face, breasts and buttocks and other areas as determined by Dr. Sumpter.
WHERE IS FAT TRANSFER USED?
Common areas for fat transfer include the face for facial rejuvenation. This includes fat grafting for under the eyes, within the cheeks and lips. Fat transfers are also common for laugh lines, as well as under the chin. One of our specialty procedures is gluteal reshaping, which involves a fat transfer to the buttocks, otherwise known as a Brazilian butt lift. Fat grafting helps to correct contour irregularities that may result from over aggressive liposuction and is often used during breast reconstruction following a mastectomy. Finally, rejuvenation of the hands using fat from the patient’s own body can create gorgeous results, hiding obvious veins and tendons that become more apparent with age.
BEST CANDIDATES
Patients that desire to have a fat transfer must meet the following qualifications:
- They must have an adequate amount of available fat to extract
- They must have good skin laxity and tone
- They should be in good health and a non-smoker
WHAT TO EXPECT?
Dr. Sumpter will evaluate your overall health, the area(s) of available fat, as well as your skin quality. The area(s) to have grafting will also be evaluated to judge its suitability for receiving grafts. This evaluation will help us develop your individual plan. During the consultation, our team encourages you to discuss any areas of your appearance that concern you as well what you hope to accomplish with surgery. This will help us understand your goals and expectations and determine whether they can be realistically achieved.
FAT GRAFTING/TRANSFER RECOVERY
Swelling and bruising are expected in the areas where fat was removed and transplanted, although tl will vary between patients. The swelling and bruising will start to resolve within 1-2 weeks after surgery. A compression garment may be necessary if larger amounts of fat are removed. Most patients can resume modest activity in 7-10 days if small amounts of fat are removed and in 6-8 weeks if large amounts of fat grafts are removed. Complete recovery from fat grafting surgery usually occurs in 6 months.
EXPECTED COST
The cost for a fat transfer will vary greatly. Factors that affect pricing include the area size of the transfer, how much fat is removed, liposuction method, etc. A complete breakdown of the pricing will be detailed in the treatment plan.
GET NATURAL RESULTS TODAY!
If you have an area on the body that has low volume due to weight loss, aging or genetics, a fat transfer may be a great option to consider. We invite you to schedule a consultation with our staff today so that we can assess the areas for treatment. Fat transfers result in a smooth, fuller shape and can be placed in areas as small as the lips, or as large as the buttocks.
