You’ve probably heard about the risks associated with silicone implants like those used in breast enhancement: breast pain, rapture, infections, etc. In addition to that, silicone implants are never a long-term solution. That’s why reputable plastic surgeons like Dr. Joel Aronowitz provide a better alternative: fat grafting. Also known as fat transfer, lipofilling, or fat injection, this permanent solution can enhance your breasts, buttocks, hips, and overall shape without the nasty side effects of silicone implants. Let’s see what the procedure is all about and who is an ideal candidate for it. You’ll also get to know the cost and whether there are any side effects of this procedure so you can be adequately prepared before talking to your doctor.
Fat Grafting Procedure
Fat grafting involves the removal of fat from one area of your body (donor site) and transferring it to another that needs enhancement (recipient site). Before undergoing the procedure, a qualified surgeon like Joel Aronowitz will discuss the steps and outcomes with you so that you can make an informed decision. They will also tell you to observe the following rules in preparation for surgery:
- Avoid smoking.
- Avoid aspirin or ibuprofen, as they may interfere with blood clotting.
- Hydrate adequately.
- Avoid herbal supplements.
On the day of the procedure, your surgeon will do the following:
- Numb both the donor and recipient sites using local or general anesthesia.
- Use a low-trauma technique known as liposuction to remove fat from the donor site.
- Process the fat using special equipment that separates the fat from blood.
- Inject the fat into the recipient site (no stitches needed).
The fat transfer procedure may take a couple of hours depending on the size of the treatment site. While smaller sites like lips only require a single session, larger areas such as buttocks, breasts, etc., may require more sessions. It may take about six months for the new fat cells to develop blood supply and the site to recover fully.
Who is a Good Candidate?
A good candidate for fat transfer must meet the following criteria:
- Is in good health and close to their ideal BMI (body weight).
- Doesn’t smoke
- Has enough fat in the body to be transferred.
- Has realistic expectations.
Any Side Effects of Fat Transfer Surgery?
After fat transfer, it’s common to experience the following:
- Bruising and swelling in treatment areas.
- Scarring (scars will disappear with time)
- Fat loss from injected areas in the first few months after surgery due to body metabolism
- Occasional numbness.
- Bleeding from the punctured site.
Cost of Fat Grafting
Fat grafting may cost between $2000 and $20,000 depending on the area being enhanced, location, and your surgeon. You may also incur additional costs in consultation and aftercare. Insurance won’t cover your procedure if it’s merely for cosmetic reasons. You may be covered if you need it for reconstruction after injury or other surgery.
Bottom Line
Fat grafting is not only for women; men also seek this service to enhance their abs. As the science of fat transfer continues to advance, the procedure is becoming safer, more affordable, and more popular among plastic surgery patients.
