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After using liposuction to remove fat from an area such as the abdomen, thighs, or back, this fat can be purified and injected back into the body to augment areas such as the buttocks. The fat grafting procedure creates long-lasting and natural-looking results.
What is Fat Grafting?
Fat grafting involves transferring fat from areas of the body in which there is excess fat and injecting it into areas lacking in volume, such as the breasts or buttocks. This procedure is well-tolerated and long-lasting.
Who is a Good Candidate For Fat Grafting?
Individuals who wish to improve their body contour, fill in bodily depressions, or revise scars can often benefit from the fat grafting procedure. A consultation with Dr. Kurtovic or Dr. Mahabir is the first step on your plastic surgery journey. During this appointment, you can discuss your aesthetic goals, and ask any questions you may have.
Before + After
Patient Results
Achieve your ideal body with body contouring, fat reduction, and rejuvenation. We offer procedures for every area of the body, including the stomach, thighs, arms, back, and more! View our patient gallery and find a before and after similar to your body type and treatment goals to see what kind of results you can expect from our team.
BEFORE & AFTER GALLERY
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Fat Grafting Procedure
During the fat graft procedure, fat is collected from the abdomen, thighs, or other areas of the body using liposuction. It is then injected into specific areas of the body. There are three main steps to the fat grafting procedure, including:
Harvesting
First, you and your plastic surgeon will agree on a site for fat removal. This area will be injected with a local anesthetic, and a small incision will be created through which a cannula connected to a syringe will be inserted. Suction is then used to carefully harvest enough fat for the fat grafting process.
Purification and Grafting
Once the fat is collected, it will be processed to prepare the fat cells for injection. Purification is done by placing the fat cells into a centrifuge, which spins to remove impurities. The purified fat is then transferred into small syringes.
Placement
The area of your body that is being treated will then be prepared for injection. Small syringes will be used to inject a specific amount of fat into the treatment area for the desired outcome. Your plastic surgeon may massage the area that was injected to create the perfect contour.
Recovery Process
Recovery Process
2-4 weeks
Fat Grafting Recovery 2-4 weeks
Following the fat grafting procedure, a bandage or dressing may be placed on the treated area and the area where the fat was taken from. Swelling and bruising may occur during the first week, though they should subside over time.
Most people begin to see their results about ten days after treatment when swelling begins to subside. Your plastic surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for your incisions during recovery for the best possible results.
The survival of the fat that was transferred will depend on how the fat was harvested and purified and how and where it was injected. When this procedure is done successfully, the injected fat will establish a new blood supply from your body to survive. When this happens, results are often long-lasting or permanent; however, there may be a percentage of fat that does not take.
Frequently Asked Questions
What precautions should be taken after fat grafting?
How long does it take for fat grafting to settle?
What to expect after fat grafting?
Should you massage after fat grafting?
Does fat grafting leave lumps?
How long are you swollen after fat grafting?
Silvia Kurtovic, MD & Raman Mahabir, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeons
At Tucson Plastic Surgery, we have a patient-centric approach that sets us apart from the rest. Dr. Mahabir and Dr. Kurtovic will take the time to really get to know you and your aesthetic goals during one-on-one conversations which help us to fully understand your motivations.
To schedule a consultation today, call our Tucson, AZ office at 520-415-2420 or use our online scheduling form.