Fat grafting, which is also known as lipomodelling, is a cosmetic procedure that involves the transfer of fat from one area of the body to another chosen area. The aim of this treatment is to rid the body of unwanted fat and to use that fat to enhance other parts of the body, such as the buttocks or face. This fat can increase the size of that area or improve the appearance of the skin.
The fat grafting procedure
This procedure is conducted under local or general anaesthetic, depending on your age, medical history and the amount of fat that is to be used. The surgeon will begin by making small incisions in the skin, in order to remove fat from the unwanted area. The fat is ‘sucked’ out via a small tube. This area is then stitched up and a dressing applied.
The fat is injected into the area to be enhanced using a fine needle. The procedure should take no more than a couple of hours, depending on the size of the area to be treated. Most patients can go home the same day.
Recovery
Recovery time very much depends upon the areas that have been treated and the amount of surgical work carried out. Most patients can expect to make a full recovery in up to two weeks. By this time, you should feel no pain or discomfort and all bruising should have faded.
Fat grafting results are usually seen a few weeks postoperatively but may take anywhere up to six months to show maximum results. It may also take a few weeks for swelling and bruising to reduce, meaning that results are not able to be seen immediately. If you have had fat grafting to the face, you should see a visible reduction in fine lines. For women who have had a lumpectomy, fat grafting to the breast will result in a more rounded and natural breast shape.
Prices
Local anaesthetic – from £4,774
This treatment is offered by our surgical cosmetic clinic, Bristol Plastic Surgery. You can read more about fat grafting on their website.
