What is fat grafting?

Fat grafting is a surgical procedure based on harvesting fat from the patient’s body through liposuction, usually from areas such as the abdomen or thighs. The extracted fat is then purified and processed before being carefully injected into the desired areas, such as the face, chest or arms. This process ensures the survival of the fat cells and increases the chances of long-term success.

One of the key factors contributing to the success of fat transfer is the reduced risk of allergic reactions, as the patient’s own fat is used. This eliminates the need to use fillers, making it an ideal option for those with sensitive skin or allergies. In addition, fat transfer has gained wide recognition for its ability to introduce stem cells into the recipient’s area, which can have regenerative benefits.

At a glance

Fat transfer process

The fat transfer procedure involves three main steps to ensure the efficacy and safety of the procedure. Follow the steps below to understand how liposuction is performed and its benefits:

  • 01

    Extraction of Fat from the Donor Area by Liposuction

    In the first step, fat is extracted from the donor site using liposuction techniques. For efficient extraction of fat, thin cannulas with small holes are preferred. Liposuction should be performed by manual methods, avoiding the use of lasers or ultrasound, as these methods may destroy the fat cells and reduce the quality of the fat harvested.

  • 02

    Processing of fat by Decanting, centering and processing

    After extraction, the fat is processed by decantation. The aim is to remove debris, excess fluids and dead cells, leaving only viable fat cells.

  • 03

    Re-use of clean fat in the Growth Area

    In the final step, the processed fat is reused by injecting small drops throughout the subcutaneous tissue of the area in need of improvement. This process ensures good blood supply to each drop of fat, allowing fat transfer to be properly incorporated. The amount of fat injected is measured in cubic centimeters (cc) and varies depending on the patient and the area of the body where the injection is made.

    With this procedure, fat transfer offers a natural and long-lasting result, rejuvenating the area in need of improvement using your own fat.

Body areas for fat grafting

Fat transfer is a popular procedure that allows for the improvement of various areas of the body using your own natural tissue. The main areas of the body where fat transfer can provide significant results are:

Buttocks

The buttocks are the most popular area for fat transfer, particularly for women who want a firmer and shapelier appearance. This procedure can provide immediate results, enhancing the shape and firmness of the buttocks.

Face

Fat transfer to the face is popular because injectable fat usually lasts longer than conventional fillers. This procedure is excellent for enhancing the cheekbone or jawline, providing a more youthful appearance. Unlike fillers that need to be reapplied every 6-12 months, the fat can remain for several years before needing to be renewed.

Hands

The skin on the hands can reveal a lot of information about our age, often more than the face. Fat transfer to the hands offers restoration of volume and renewal of the appearance of skin that has lost its firmness or developed wrinkles. It can also improve the appearance of veins, making them less visible.

Belly

Fat transfer to the abdomen, or "abdominal etching", is used to create a shapely "six-pack". During the procedure, surgeons remove fat from the abdomen with liposuction to highlight the muscles, and then reposition the fat in the area to enhance the muscle lines, creating the appearance of a sculpted torso.

Arms

Fat transfer to the arms is highly requested by men who wish to add volume and improve the appearance of triceps and biceps. This procedure helps to shape and strengthen the area, creating a more muscular and shapely appearance that cannot be achieved through diet and exercise alone.

Chest

Breast fat transfer has become very popular, mainly due to the fact that it provides an alternative for women who do not want implants or general anesthesia. This procedure is mainly aimed at women who have small breasts and wish to add volume or regain definition to their cleavage. However, the amount of fat that can be transferred is limited by the existing amount of fat in the body. Thus, fat transfer cannot drastically change the size of the breasts in a single session, but it can provide a natural and refreshed appearance.

The Advantages of Fat Transfer Compared to Fillers

Lipotransfer has emerged as an excellent alternative for improving the shape and texture of the body and face, offering many advantages over conventional fillers. Some of the key advantages of liposuction are:

Multipotent Stem Cells for Total Regeneration

Lipotransfer uses the body's natural fat, which contains pluripotent stem cells. These cells help to rejuvenate the skin, providing a total renewal of the appearance. Stem cells help improve skin health and enhance cell regeneration, providing a natural and healthy result.

Improve Skin Thickness, Quality and Texture

Fat transfer can significantly improve skin thickness, quality and texture. The fat that is transferred not only provides volume but also helps to strengthen the structure of the skin, making it smoother and more youthful. Compared to fillers, fat transfer offers a more complete and natural renewal.

Absolutely Compatible Material

Since the fat comes from the patient's own body, it is completely compatible with the body and the chances of allergic reactions or rejections are reduced. This feature makes fat transfer an excellent option for those seeking a natural and safe treatment.

Excellent Integration and Physical Feel

The transferred fat is perfectly integrated into the tissues, providing a natural effect that is neither palpable nor erased under the skin. Unlike some fillers, fat adapts smoothly to the natural curves of the body, maintaining a natural feel and appearance.

Safe to use in areas of the neck and décolleté

Fat transfer can be safely used in sensitive areas such as the neck and décolleté. Its application to these areas offers rejuvenation and improved appearance without the usual concerns associated with the use of fillers in such areas.

Long-term results without repeat sessions

One of the biggest advantages of liposuction is the long-lasting results. Fat transfer offers a lasting renewal, reducing the need for repeat sessions. While fillers require periodic renewals to maintain results, fat transfer offers a more permanent result with less maintenance.

Fat Grafting Results

  • BEFORE
    AFTER
  • BEFORE
    AFTER
Photographs Body
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Useful questions

01

What is the ideal age for fat transfer?

Fat transfer can be performed on patients of various ages. However, younger patients may have better skin elasticity and natural collagen production, which can improve the results of the procedure.

02

Can fat transfer be performed by liposuction?

Yes, fat transfer often involves liposuction to harvest fat from the donor site. The liposuction procedure is minimally invasive and provides an ample amount of fat for the transplant procedure.

03

Are the results of fat transfer permanent?

While fat transfer offers long-term results, some of the transplanted fat may be reabsorbed by the body over time. Typically, patients retain a significant portion of the transplanted fat for several years.

04

Is fat transfer safe for patients with allergies?

Since fat transfer uses the patient's own fat cells, the risk of allergic reactions is minimal, making it a safe option for patients with allergies.

05

Can fat transfer be reversed if desired?

In most cases, fat grafting cannot be reversed. However, additional procedures, such as liposuction or dermal fillers, can be performed to alter the results if needed.

The doctor

Who is the doctor

Dr. Ioannis Dalianoudis is an experienced plastic surgeon, a graduate of the University of Ioannina with a professional career that includes work in several countries, including France, Denmark and Ireland. Specializing in plastic, reconstructive and cosmetic surgery, he trained in Germany in facial cosmetic surgery. He has performed a variety of procedures including eye surgery, facelift, rhinoplasty, bariatric surgery recovery and body contouring. In addition, he is a member of the "European Board of Plastic Surgery (EBOPRAS)" and is dedicated to patient satisfaction, making him a trusted choice for plastic surgery seekers. His dedication to patient satisfaction, his expertise and his vast experience in the Greek and international arena make him a reliable choice for those looking for plastic surgery.

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