1. Using a cannula, fat is harvested (extracted) from the donor site, typically the lower tummy using the liposuction process.

2. The fat is then decanted and processed in a special centrifuge.

3. The fat is then injected into the desired facial area. The area where the fat is re-injected is called the recipient site.

When compared to injections of hyaluronic acid dermal fillers in the office, fat grafting offers multiple benefits. Fat grafting uses your own body tissues rather than synthetic foreign material. As a result, the grafted fat cells live on like the rest of your fat so the results are generally longer lasting than fillers. Importantly, grafted fat doesn’t block the lymphatic system of the face the way fillers can so the results tend to stay more consistent, without the “watery” edema that can often accompany hyaluronic acid fillers over time.

The ideal candidate for facial fat transfer typically has the following attributes:

• Good overall health without chronic illnesses or infections that could impair healing
• Non-smokers, as smoking can compromise blood flow and negatively affect the healing process
• Adequate excess fat in other body regions for harvesting
• Experiencing facial volume loss due to aging or weight loss
• Sufficient skin elasticity

A facial fat transfer procedure is typically performed with local anesthesia and topical anesthesia. General anesthesia may be used in some cases. As this allows you to be comfortable throughout the procedure. A board-certified anesthesiologist will monitor you during the surgery to ensure safety.

Healing after a lipo transfer can take three to seven days. After your fat transfer procedure, you will have two areas to monitor while healing. The first is the site where injections were made for facial and body sculpting. Avoid putting pressure on this area so the fat cells can settle into the tissues. Any disturbance to this area may affect your fat grafting results. The site where liposuction was performed is another area to monitor during your fat transfer recovery. Incisions from fat relocation surgery are small enough to heal without sutures.

To ensure the most satisfactory results, it’s important that you don’t lose weight during your first six months post-op. In other words, you need to consume as many calories as your body needs to maintain its current weight. If you’ve been maintaining your weight for at least six months, you can probably eat intuitively and not worry about tracking macros. If, however, your body fat percentage fluctuates periodically, you will need to track the macros you consume.

Yes! Fat transfer can be combined with many other cosmetic procedures. Typically, fat transfer can be done alongside a facelift, neck lift, eyelid lift, and more. During your consultation, Dr. Edouard Coeugniet will build a custom treatment plan that ensures you meet all your needs.

Recovery from fat transfer procedures typically involves some swelling, mild bruising, and discomfort in both the donor and treatment areas. These side effects usually subside within one to three weeks. Dr. Edouard Coeugniet will provide detailed post-operative care instructions to help you manage any discomfort and ensure optimal results. Most patients return to their normal activities within a week or two.

The results of fat grafting are long-lasting, with many patients enjoying their enhanced appearance for years to come.

To maintain your results after fat transfer, you’ll want to keep your weight stable, avoid smoking and excess alcohol use, avoid excess sun exposure, and stick to a healthy diet and exercise regimen. After your procedure, Dr. Edouard Coeugniet will walk you through the best ways to maintain your results.