Harbour Surgical Institute, Inc.

Procedures & Services

• Fat Transfer from one area to another
• Fat transfer to small areas (ie. Lower eyes)
• Fat transfer to Large areas (ie. Buttocks)

What is Fat Transfer?
A century old technique, fat transfer is the procedure of recycling fat from one body area to another. The advantages of using one’s own fat and the ability to correct large defects make the procedure a popular option for many patients who choose to recontour their skin.

What Types of Conditions Respond Well to Fat Transfer?
Fat transfer injections are helpful for both cosmetic and reconstructive purposes. Also referred to as fat transplantation, microlipoinjection or surgical “sculpturing,” the process is used to replace the loss of fat underneath the skin associated with the aging process. The tired appearance is most obvious on the face and hands. Also, certain types of scars and deformities may be improved with this skin sculpting technique.

Is Fat Transfer Safe?
Fat Transfer is considered a safe and effective procedure. Since one’s own fat is used, there is virtually no risk of allergic reaction or rejection of the fat tissue. Thus, fat transfer is an excellent alternative for people who are allergic to any of the other fillers.

How is Fat Transfer Performed?
The donor site (area from which fat is to be removed) and the recipient site (area in which fat is to be injected) are cleansed, surgically prepared and numbed with a local anesthetic. Using a very tiny needle and syringe, the fat is extracted through a small incision from the abdomen or thigh areas. Once removed, the fat is reinjected into the recipient site. Favored recipient areas on the face included the crease that extends from the nose to the mouth (Nasolabial folds), the chin and around the mouth and eyes. “Hollow cheeks” that have lost fat due to aging can also be filled out with fat transfer injections.

What Can Be Expected After the Procedure?
After fat transfer, pressure dressings are applied to the donor site. Generally, there is some temporary swelling, soreness and bruising. Patients can usually resume normal activity the day of surgery, but strenuous activity should be avoided until approved by the physician.

How Long Will the Improvement Last?
The duration of the contour correction varies from patient to patient (possibly years). While improvement can be long-lasting, follow-up fat injections may be necessary or desired for maintenance and possibly to extend the longevity and permanence of the fat transfer.