Applications of Fat Grafting In Body Contouring
Fat grafting procedures can be used in the face and in the body, with applications similar to those of injectable fillers where the fat harvested from liposuction can be used in fat grafting procedures. However, fat graft has the advantage of being a “natural filler” from one’s own cells and as a living tissue, can last a very long time. It is being recognized that these fat cells have a rejuvenating effect on the overlying skin, creating a healthier glow after a fat grafting procedure.
In the body, the most common application is for breast augmentation, buttock lifts and correction after liposuction procedures. For fat grafting of the face, it is possible for this to be in the clinic procedure room as the volumes involved are small.
Fat grafting is done under local anaesthesia and takes 30 to 60 minutes. Depending on the area treated, the downtime can be 2-7 days. For fat grafting of the body, larger volumes are needed and these are usually done as day surgeries under intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. These take 1-2 hours and downtime can range from 7-21 days depending on the area treated.
