Q. How does the fat transfer process work?
Fat has become the gold standard in body contouring. Fat grafting is most commonly known from the popularity surrounding Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBLs). More recently fat grafting has become a phenomenal option for patients who would like to enhance their breasts and other areas of the body without the use of artificial implants.
Many physicians use a Power Assisted Liposuction System to remove excess adipose tissue (fat) from the abdomen, waist, arms, legs and any other area that the patient has unwanted fat collection. The fat is then processed and injected through small incisions to the target areas for enhancement. Your body may absorb up to 50% of the fat that is injected and additional surgery may be needed as a result. If the fat grafts do not become well incorporated, they may form hardened areas called fat necrosis or cysts. This could be troublesome in the breast and therefore should be discussed with your board certified plastic surgeon prior to surgery.
BBL has been associated with high complication rates including death. Traditionally, injection techniques included placement of fat into the gluteal muscle or the subcutaneous space below the skin but above the muscle. Injection into the muscle is associated with the highest complication rates.
Visit the ALL YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT BRAZILIAN BUTT LIFT SURGERY blog to learn more about the risks and benefits of Brazilian Butt Lifts.