Fat Transfer in Atlanta, GA

When a man or woman has weight fluctuations or ages, they lose shape and fullness in specific body areas where volume once resided. A terrific way to regain volume that has been lost is through an advanced cosmetic technique known as fat grafting (a fat transfer). A fat transfer extracts fat from a place on the body and injects it into another area that could benefit from additional volume. A fat transfer can be used on a large area, such as the breasts. Fat transfers are often chosen when a patient hopes to have a natural enhancement rather than using a device, such as an implant, or a substance, such as a filler. Double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Marisa Lawrence is skilled at using the most effective liposuction and grafting methods for performing fat transfers. This cosmetic enhancement at Marisa Lawrence Plastic Surgery creates appealing, natural-looking outcomes.

Individuals who wish to have additional smoothness and volume in specific places on the face or body that appear depleted of natural fullness may be appropriate candidates for a fat transfer. This specialized enhancement is even more advantageous because it offers a natural approach to create results by incorporating the patient's own fat. By doing this, there is little threat for rejection. Both women and men at Marisa Lawrence Plastic Surgery considering this treatment need to be at a healthy weight and have enough fat to remove for the transfer.

When undergoing a fat transfer, you will be placed under some form of anesthesia. The exact type of anesthesia or numbing method will be based on how much fat is being taken out, including the location where it will be reinstated. Liposuction is completed via a special cannula to precisely remove the fat, where it will then be harvested and separated through a centrifuge (which prepares the highest quality fat for syringes). After preparing the injection site, the extracted fat will be added to the area chosen for the transfer. The process of injecting is performed in layers until even smoothness has been attained. For some areas, multiple injections will be necessary.

After the transfer process has been completed, you will begin a healing period. Keep in mind, there are at least two sites on the body that need to be carefully treated: the area involving liposuction and the injection sites. The overall recovery may be longer if a larger place on the body was addressed. For example, a fat transfer for lip enhancement will generally only warrant a 1 – 2-day recovery, whereas a transfer to a more vast body part, such as the breast or buttocks, can take many more days. The sites will appear swollen with some possible bruising, but the results can be seen pretty quickly. Another perk is the area where liposuction was used will appear slimmer. Fat grafting yields beautiful and lasting results, but there will be some resorption back to the body. For some, another transfer may be needed down the road. There is minimal scarring associated with this procedure.

How much does a fat transfer cost?
Fat transfer prices will vary, depending on many factors. For transfers to the breasts or butt, a higher volume of fat is needed, thus, liposuction is used and a longer process is employed to purify the fat and inject it accordingly. Smaller treatments, such as adding facial volume, take less fat and time. The volume amount needed to reach your goals will be reviewed during your consultation with Dr. Lawrence, along with pricing estimates and payment options for you to consider.

Where can I have fat transferred?
Fat can be transferred almost anywhere on your face or body that you want to add shape or rejuvenate your skin. Some of the most common areas are the buttocks (often known as a Brazilian butt lift), face, breasts, and hands. A fat transfer may be combined with breast implants or breast reconstruction to minimize imperfections. Age-related volume loss in the face and hands can also be corrected with a fat transfer, particularly in the hollows under the eyes or to add shape to your lips. Talk to Dr. Lawrence during your consultation where you would like to add volume so she can create your custom fat transfer plan.

How long will the results of a fat transfer last?
The results of a fat transfer look natural and can last for a long time with proper care. Dr. Lawrence uses the latest techniques to purify and graft fat that will not be reabsorbed. However, there is usually still a small amount of fat that does not attach to its new location so Dr. Lawrence typically adds slightly more fat than is needed. If you want to enhance or touch-up your results after a few years, a second fat transfer may be performed.

Are there any alternative treatments to a fat transfer?
Depending on the area where you want to increase volume, there may be an alternative to a fat transfer. In your breasts implants may be surgically placed instead of a fat transfer. In your face and hands, Marisa Lawrence Plastic Surgery offers multiple injectable dermal fillers for long-lasting volume and rejuvenation. Dr. Lawrence will discuss all of the various options during your first appointment so you can see the results that match your needs and goals.

What if I don't have enough fat for a transfer?
At your first appointment with Dr. Lawrence, she will explain how much fat is needed to achieve your goals. In some cases, you may not have enough fat for the transfer, but this is typically only a concern if you have a very low body fat percentage or you want a large volume of fat added to one area. Fat can be removed from multiple areas or supplemented with donor fat. Dr. Lawrence will discuss your options during your consultation.

If you are looking to get fuller lips or want to soften hollow areas or lines, this treatment may be a great option. Furthermore, a fat transfer works great for the buttocks or breasts. There are many choices for adding volume and fullness. This procedure can help you achieve the look you wish for without choosing to undergo an invasive surgery that might require a lengthy downtime. We invite you to get in touch with our staff to schedule your consult at Marisa Lawrence Plastic Surgery.