Fat Transfer

Fat transfer, also known as fat grafting or liposculpture, is a plastic surgery procedure that involves restoring lost volume in the face with the patient’s own fat, taken from the abdomen, thighs or other areas. This procedure is effective in treating sunken cheeks, facial lines, acne scars and other areas of lost volume that have developed as a result of aging, sun damage and other conditions. Many women and men in northern New Jersey looking for the best options in advanced skin care come to The Peer Group for fat transfer treatments, where our board certified plastic surgeons have performed many such procedures.

Unlike fillers and other volume-enhancing cosmetic medical treatments, fat grafts are taken from the patient’s own body, and as a result cannot cause an allergic reaction. The fat is naturally accepted by the body. Fat grafts that are autologous – that is, from one’s own body – also last longer than synthetic materials.

Fat Grafting Procedure

During the fat grafting procedure, fat is harvested from the donor area by inserting a cannula and suctioning out the fat, similar to liposuction. This is done under local anesthesia to minimize any potential discomfort. The harvested fat is then purified so that only the fat cells are grafted. Once the fat is ready to be placed, it is injected into the targeted area through a cannula until the desired appearance is achieved.

This anti-aging skin care procedure is performed on an outpatient basis in your doctor’s office or a surgical facility. Because of the different aspects involved, treatment time can vary significantly depending on each patient’s individual procedure.

Results and Recovery

Patients may experience mild swelling and bruising after the fat grafting procedure, which can be minimized by icing the area. Fat grafts usually last longer than dermal fillers and other volumizing treatments, and are considered safe for most patients since no foreign material is being injected into the body.

Risks of Fat Grafting

While fat grafting is considered safe for most patients, there are certain risks associated with any type of plastic surgery procedure. Some of these risks may include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Scarring
• Nerve damage
• Under or overcorrection

These risks can be minimized by choosing an experienced doctor to perform your procedure, and following his/her instructions after the plastic surgery is performed. We recommend working with a certified plastic surgeon for best results. If you’re in Short Hills, Essex Falls, or anywhere in northern New Jersey, call Peer Group today to schedule a consultation and find out whether or not this procedure is right for you.