Q. What Is the Fat Graft Procedure?
A. A fat graft is a cosmetic procedure in which a surgeon removes fat from a donor site, usually the abdomen or thighs, and injects it into another area such as the forehead, under-eye, cheeks, nasolabial folds, or chin to add volume or improve contours.
Q. How Does the Procedure Work?
A. The procedure begins with the surgeon extracting fat from areas like the abdomen or thighs. The fat is then purified and processed using a centrifuge to separate the healthy fat cells. Afterward, the fat is carefully injected into areas that need volume.
Q. Will There Be Noticeable Scarring?
A. There will be small incisions at the donor sites (abdomen or thighs), strategically placed in discreet areas, making them barely noticeable. The injected area will have minimal to no scarring, as the needle used to inject the fat is very small. With proper healing and care, any scars typically fade significantly over time.
Q. What Is The Recovery Process Like?
A. The recovery process includes swelling, bruising, and discomfort at the injection sites, which typically subside within a few weeks. Patients should avoid dieting, strenuous exercise, and hot environments for up to 2 months to allow the fat to settle and ensure optimal survival rates.
Q. What Type Of Anesthesia Will Be Used? Will It Be Painful?
A. Fat grafting is typically performed under sedation anesthesia, ensuring you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Some discomfort may occur as the anesthesia wears off, but this is normal and can be managed with prescribed pain medication.
Q. How Long Do the Results Last?
A. While some fat cells may be absorbed by the body, the majority of the transferred fat should remain in place for several years. Individual results may vary, but results are typically long-lasting, especially when maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. To preserve the results, it is recommended to avoid intensive dieting and intense exercise that could interfere with the fat grafting process.
Q. What Are the Post-Surgery Precautions?
A. Prior to the surgery, the clinic will provide you with explanations, consent forms, and pre-surgery instructions. After the surgery, the clinic will provide post-surgery instructions as well as prescribed medication. Key post-surgery instructions include avoiding compression, massage, and cold or warm compresses to enhance the survival rate of the transplanted fat. It is important to take prescribed medication to reduce swelling and prevent inflammation. Alcohol and smoking should be avoided for one month, as they can negatively affect bleeding, infection, and wound healing. Strenuous exercise and weight loss should be avoided for approximately two months, while light stretching and walking are encouraged to help reduce swelling and promote circulation.