Fat Transfer

What Is Fat Transfer?

Fat transfer, also known as fat grafting, is a cosmetic procedure where fat is harvested from one part of the body using liposuction, purified, and then injected into another area to enhance volume and shape. Common areas for harvesting include the abdomen, thighs, and hips, while typical sites for injection are the face, breasts, and other areas of the body. Fat transfer is at times favored for its natural-looking results and compatibility with the body.

What Are the Benefits of Fat Transfer?

When performed by an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Andrew Cohen, fat transfer offers several benefits. Primarily, the procedure uses a patient’s own fat to enhance body areas like the face and breasts. Fat grafting can provide more natural-looking results, and since it uses body fat, it simultaneously contours areas where fat is removed. The recovery time is generally shorter and less painful than for more invasive surgeries. Additionally, fat transfer has the potential to improve skin texture and health by adding volume and even enhancing blood circulation in the treated area.

Where Are My Fat Transfer Options?

Fat Transfer to the Breasts

Transferring fat to the breasts can act as a more natural alternative to surgical breast augmentation. This procedure can enhance the breasts in a similar way to silicone and saline implants by increasing volume and creating a fuller appearance. Also known as a natural breast augmentation, fat transfer to the breasts may entail a faster recovery process than when implants are used.

Fat Transfer to the Body

The fat grafting process can help create a more shapely or muscular physique and improve the appearance of other body areas. Some patients may choose to have fat transferred to their arms for bulkier biceps and triceps, while others may opt for hand rejuvenation to address lost volume, wrinkled skin, and visible veins. Dr. Cohen utilizes the innovative body-jet® water-jet to produce the best possible results for patients receiving fat transfer to the hands. The technology pumps water into the area where fat is being removed for a gentler experience. The fat is then easily harvested and re-injected into the hands. This process helps the new fat “take” to its new area.

Fat Transfer to the Face

Facial features that have lost volume and have a hollow-looking appearance may benefit from fat transfer to the face. The procedure can be a valid and natural alternative to a facelift or injectable fillers, and the transferred fat can often produce more youthful results.

What Does the Fat Transfer Procedure Involve?

While the process can be tailored to a patient’s specific needs and aesthetic goals, the fat transfer procedure often involves three main steps.

  1. First, fat is harvested from the patient’s body using liposuction, typically from areas with excess fat like the abdomen, thighs, or hips.
  2. Next, the extracted fat is purified to isolate viable fat cells.
  3. Finally, these processed fat cells are meticulously injected into the target area using specialized techniques to enhance volume and contour.

This procedure not only augments or reshapes the recipient site but also slims down the donor area. The entire process is minimally invasive, promoting a quicker recovery compared to traditional implant surgeries.

How Much Does Fat Transfer Cost?

The cost of fat transfer can vary widely depending on several factors, including:

  • The area being treated
  • The amount of fat to be transferred
  • The complexity of the procedure
  • Surgeon’s and anesthesia fees
  • If multiple sessions are needed

Once your personalized treatment plan has been developed, a member of our team will provide you with a customized cost. Additionally, we offer financing options through PatientFi®, CareCredit®, BLIS®, and ALPHAEON for eligible applicants to help make the procedure more accessible and payments more manageable.

For more information about fat transfer, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Cohen, contact our office today.