Overview
Fat transfer, also known as fat grafting or fat injection, is a cosmetic procedure that involves removing excess fat from one area of the body and transferring it to another area that requires more volume or enhancement. This technique allows for the natural augmentation of various body regions, such as the face, breasts, buttocks, or hands. Fat transfer offers a safe and effective solution for individuals seeking to enhance their appearance by utilizing their own body fat.
Preparation
- Consultation: Schedule an initial consultation with our team to discuss your desired goals and expectations. We will assess your medical history, examine the areas for fat removal and transfer, and determine your eligibility for the procedure.
- Medical Evaluation: Undergo a thorough medical evaluation to ensure you are in good health and suitable for the fat transfer procedure.
- Discussion and Planning: During your consultation, we will explain the procedure, alternatives, potential risks, and benefits. You will work together to develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs and aesthetic goals.
- Pre-operative Instructions: Follow any specific instructions provided by your surgeon, which may include avoiding certain medications or supplements that can increase the risk of bleeding, quitting smoking, and arranging for a responsible adult to accompany you on the day of the procedure.
Procedure Steps
- Anesthesia: On the day of the procedure, you will be administered with appropriate anesthesia options, such as local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the extent and location of fat transfer.
- Fat Harvesting: The surgeon will identify the donor site (typically an area with excess fat deposits like the abdomen, thighs, or hips) and make a small incision in that area. A specialized cannula (thin tube) is then inserted through the incision to gently suction out the excess fat. The fat removal process may utilize various techniques like manual liposuction, power-assisted liposuction, or ultrasound-assisted liposuction.
- Fat Processing: Once the fat is collected, it undergoes a purification process to remove any impurities, excess fluids, or damaged fat cells. The fat is carefully processed to obtain healthy and viable fat cells for transfer.
- Fat Injection: The prepared fat is then injected into the targeted areas that require volume enhancement or augmentation. The surgeon uses small, precise cannulas to deposit the fat cells in multiple layers, ensuring smooth and natural-looking results. The injection technique and amount of fat injected depend on the specific goals and the area being treated.
- Incision Closure: After the fat transfer is complete, the surgeon closes the incisions with sutures or surgical tape.
- Recovery and Post-operative Care: You will be provided with detailed instructions on how to care for the treated areas, including the use of dressings, medications, and follow-up appointments. It's important to follow the surgeon's recommendations for optimal healing and to minimize any potential complications.
- Results: Over time, the transferred fat cells establish a blood supply and integrate into the surrounding tissues, resulting in a fuller and rejuvenated appearance in the treated areas. The final results of fat transfer become more apparent as the swelling subsides and the healing process progresses, typically within a few weeks to a few months.
Petroff Center Plastic Surgery and Medi-Spa Reviews
I had the most wonderful experience with Dr. Petroff and everyone I met at the Petroff center! I had wanted a rhinoplasty for years and Dr. Petroff explained the whole process to me and listened to what I was hoping to get out of it. I felt completely informed and supported the entire time. Pre and post surgery I felt safe and taken care of. They also checked up on me constantly after surgery and made sure I was doing well. I am so happy with how my nose turned out and forever thankful to Dr. Petroff and his team!
I have received care from Dr. Petroff at the Petroff Center (facial surgery) and Melissa at Premier (laser skin treatments at the medi-spa side of the center). My experiences exceeded all expectations, and as someone who has seen many healthcare providers, the attention to detail and level of care provided at the Petroff Center is unmatched. The entire team is friendly, kind, knowledgeable, and supportive, and so quick to respond to questions. Dr. Petroff was thoughtful and open during our initial meeting and consultation, and helped me understand what realistic expectations could look like. He is highly skilled, and the results of my surgery were above and beyond what I expected. For me, the care I’ve received at the Petroff Center/Premier has been life-changing, and while I always hope that internal beauty and character trumps the importance of physical appearance, most of us do care deeply about how we look. Dr. Petroff and his team were able to make incredible changes to my two primary sources of insecurity (a core facial feature and skin-related challenges) and they are now two of my favorite things about my appearance. This has exponentially increased my quality of life. The Petroff Center is truly a world-class practice, with an incredible and skilled team of professionals, beautiful and impeccably maintained offices and facilities, and the best care and service. They think of every detail and make themselves fully available for questions and concerns. I would recommend the Petroff Center to anyone seeking support of the types they offer. They’re wonderful!
Always a welcome place and the best. Love coming to the Petroff center Yes, always welcome
My first encounter with Petroff Center was in 2011. As Mother of the Bride I wanted to look my best. Fast forward to 2024, I desired to have my face and neck improved for a more youthful appearance. Dr Petroff and staff provide a “First Class Experience.” I am a OR RN of 20 + years and most important to me was having the best surgeon and staff in an accredited surgery center. Dr Petroff is a gifted and talented world class surgeon. Patients are fortunate to have him practice here in the Pacific NW. Dr Petroff is humble in manner and good listener to his patients and their expectations. Staff from anesthesia, nurses and office are outstanding and the entire experience is well orchestrated and executed. For the best experience in achieving your desired expectations,I highly recommend Petroff Center!
Laser hair removal- My experience with Kasey was great. She is so nice and professional. It is a very clean and friendly environment. I have tried laser hair removal at a different esthetics spa and after 1 treatment at Petroff it was already so much more effective than the other spa. Highly recommend laser hair removal at Petroff with Kasey!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is fat transfer a safe procedure?
Fat transfer is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications, which will be discussed during your consultation. It's important to follow all pre and post-operative instructions for a safe and successful outcome.
How long do the results of fat transfer last?
The results of fat transfer can vary from person to person. Some of the transferred fat cells may not survive, but those that do establish a blood supply and become a permanent part of the treated area. However, factors such as weight fluctuations and aging can affect the long-term outcome. Maintaining a stable weight and adopting a healthy lifestyle can help preserve the results.
Is fat transfer painful?
Fat transfer is performed under anesthesia, so you should not feel any pain during the procedure. However, you may experience some discomfort, swelling, or bruising in the treated areas after the surgery. Your surgeon will prescribe appropriate pain medication to manage any post-operative discomfort.
What is the recovery period for fat transfer?
The recovery time can vary depending on the extent of the procedure and the areas treated. Typically, you can expect some swelling and bruising for the first few weeks. Most patients can resume normal activities within a week or two, but it's important to avoid strenuous exercise or activities that could impact the treated areas for a few weeks. Your surgeon will provide detailed post-operative instructions to help guide your recovery.
Are there any risks or complications associated with fat transfer?
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with fat transfer. These may include infection, bleeding, asymmetry, contour irregularities, scarring, or changes in sensation. Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you during the consultation and take necessary precautions to minimize them.
Can fat transfer be combined with other procedures?
Yes, fat transfer can often be combined with other cosmetic procedures to enhance overall results. Common combinations include facelift with fat transfer, breast augmentation with fat transfer, or body contouring procedures. Your surgeon will evaluate your individual goals and discuss the possibility of combining procedures to achieve your desired outcome.
Am I a suitable candidate for fat transfer?
Ideal candidates for fat transfer are in good overall health, have sufficient fat deposits in donor areas, and desire enhancement or augmentation in specific areas. During your consultation, the surgeon will assess your candidacy based on your medical history, physical examination, and discussion of your goals.