Fat Transfer
Fat transfer, also known as autologous fat grafting, uses your own fat to restore volume and refine contour in another area of the body. Fat is gently collected from one region, processed, and reintroduced where added fullness is desired.
What fat transfer involves
The process typically begins by collecting a small amount of fat from an area such as the abdomen or thighs using gentle liposuction. The collected fat is then purified and carefully injected into the treatment area to restore soft-tissue volume. Because the material comes from your own body, it is generally well tolerated and integrates with the surrounding tissue.
Who it may suit
Fat transfer may be considered by people who would like to restore or add volume in areas such as the face or hands, and who have a suitable donor site. Individuals with very low body fat may not have enough tissue to harvest, and those with significant skin laxity may be better served by a different approach. A consultation is the appropriate way to discuss your goals, review your health history, and understand whether this option is a reasonable fit for you.
Advantages of fat transfer
- Natural results: Uses your body’s own tissue for a harmonious appearance.
- Minimally invasive: The procedure typically involves minimal discomfort and a short recovery period.
- Dual benefit: Allows gentle contouring at the donor site while adding volume at the treatment area.
- Well tolerated: Because the fat is your own, the risk of allergic reaction is low.
Recovery and what to expect
Some swelling or bruising at both the donor and treatment sites is common after the procedure and tends to settle over the following weeks. A portion of the transferred fat may be reabsorbed initially, and more than one session is sometimes needed to reach the desired result. Individual experiences and outcomes vary, and your care team can explain aftercare and typical timelines during your visit.
Common questions
What is fat transfer?
Fat transfer, also called fat grafting, is a procedure that removes fat from one part of your body and reintroduces it in another area to add volume and refine contour.
What areas can be treated?
Fat transfer is commonly used to add soft-tissue volume in areas such as the face, including the cheeks, temples, and lips, as well as the hands.
How is the procedure performed?
It involves three main steps: harvesting fat from a donor area using gentle liposuction, purifying and preparing the fat, and injecting it into the targeted area to achieve the desired volume and contour.
How long do results last?
Some of the transferred fat may be reabsorbed in the early weeks, while the fat that establishes a blood supply tends to remain. Results and longevity vary from person to person, which is something your care team can discuss during a consultation.
Related cosmetic services
You may also be interested in facial fillers, facial rejuvenation with ALMI, and hand rejuvenation with ALMI.
Medically informed care
Cosmetic care at Charming Skin & Vein Clinics is provided under the direction of Dr. Abboud, who brings more than 20 years of medical experience, with training at the University of Damascus and residency at Cook County / John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital. For general background on this technique, see fat transfer. This page is for general education and is not a substitute for an in-person consultation.
Request a Consultation or call 630-974-1400.