What is Fat Grafting

Fat grafting, also known as autologous fat transfer, is a minimally invasive fat injection technique that use your body’s own fat tissue to restore volume, contour, and softness to areas that have experienced volume loss due to aging, trauma, surgery, or weight changes. This fat transfer procedure involves removing excess fat from one area of the body and purifying the harvested fat. After purification, fat injected back into a new area of the body will settle into place, augmenting the natural look.

At TruForm Surgery, Dr. Edison brings deep expertise in plastic and reconstructive surgery, providing personalized, artistic results using the most current techniques in fat processing and injection. With the added benefit of adipose-derived stem cells found in fat cells, autologous fat grafting offers more than just volume—it supports tissue repair and enhances overall skin quality.

Who’s a Candidate?

Fat transfer is commonly performed for facial fat grafting, breast augmentation, gluteal augmentation (Brazilian Butt Lift), and even in breast reconstruction following radiation therapy or flap reconstruction. It’s also used to smooth contour irregularities, soften scar tissue, and improve breast asymmetry. You may be a candidate for fat grafting if you:

• Have areas of volume loss in the face, breasts, or buttocks
• Desire natural-looking body contouring or facial rejuvenation
• Are interested in a more permanent alternative to fillers
• Have sufficient excess fat in donor areas for fat harvesting
• Are in good overall health with realistic expectations

What to Expect During the Procedure

Fat grafting is typically performed under local anesthesia for smaller areas or general anesthesia for more extensive treatments. The procedure harvests fat using gentle liposuction techniques to remove fatty tissue from a donor site. This extracted fat is then purified using advanced fat processing methods to isolate the healthiest fat cells and adipose-derived stem cells.

Once the purified fat is prepared, it is carefully reinjected into the treatment area in small, layered amounts. This method, known as structural fat grafting, ensures the injected fat integrates well with the surrounding soft tissue and underlying structures. Dr. Edison employs meticulous placement techniques to achieve a natural, balanced enhancement, thereby reducing the risk of fat necrosis, excessive bleeding, or fat embolism.

Aftercare

Recovery from autologous fat transplantation is typically smooth and well-tolerated. Patients may experience mild bruising, swelling, or tenderness in both the donor and treatment areas, which usually resolves within a few days to weeks. During this time, it is essential to avoid placing pressure on the treated area during the healing phase. Patients should refrain from strenuous activities for one to two weeks.

For those undergoing facial fat grafting, sleeping with the treated area elevated can help minimize swelling. Following all post-operative care instructions is crucial to support proper healing and achieve optimal results. The transferred fat will gradually settle and integrate into the surrounding tissue, though some initial volume loss is expected as the body naturally absorbs a portion of the fat droplets.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re ready to explore a natural, lasting solution for volume replacement and facial or body contouring, schedule a consultation with Dr. Edison at TruForm Surgery. With a focus on precision, safety, and artistry, Dr. Edison will help you achieve your ideal look through advanced fat transfer techniques; contact us today to get started.