Fat Transfer in Fat Grafting in Metairie, LA

Our New Orleans plastic surgery office is proud to offer one of the most advanced techniques available in the cosmetic surgery industry – fat transfer – to patients in Metairie, New Orleans, and surrounding areas. Fat transfer, also known as autologous fat grafting or fat injections, is a popular technique that involves transplanting a patient’s own fat to areas of the body that need or require volume, such as the breasts, lips, buttocks, or cheeks. Since the fat is often harvested from “problem areas” such as the buttocks and thighs, the technique helps many patients attain the attractive and natural-looking overall physiques they desire. Patients from throughout the country frequently contact our office regarding fat transfer because of its many benefits and because of the experience offered by our surgeons. The fat harvesting technique used by our surgeons is gentler than previous fat harvesting methods, causing less damage to the cells. The results are natural, beautiful and lasting.

During this procedure, fat is removed from the donor sites via liposuction. An antibiotic solution is used which allows for a complete separation of the fat so that only healthy tissue is used for reinjection. This fat is prepared in syringes and slowly reinstated into the body part where shape and contour are needed. During the injection process, the area will be slowly massaged so the fat deposits settle in compact layers for the best contour finish possible. Normally, multiple injections are necessary to create an even spread of fat and achieve an ideal outcome.

Fat transfer treatment is performed with general anesthesia when it covers larger areas while local anesthesia or IV sedation is used if the area to be treated is small. Both methods will be treated as an outpatient treatment at an accredited surgical facility. The procedure will cause swelling and bruising on both the removal and injection sites. These side effects will subside in a few days. Recovery time depends on several factors, including how many body parts were involved in the surgery, as well as how much fat was transferred. Scarring is generally minimal with this procedure as the incisions made are just big enough for the cannula to be inserted. 

The cost for a fat transfer will vary. Again, it will depend on the size of the area treated and how much fat was removed and transferred. The price can range as low as $3,000-$5,000, and can go as high as $11,000. 

A fat transfer procedure can give results that will last for years. While the concern of fat reabsorption is something to consider, a skilled surgeon will be able to maximize the outcome by using the tested techniques in terms of fat layering. There is an ongoing research study that promises long-term stability of these grafted fat tissues, which involves Platelet Rich Plasma to enhance fat cells before transplanting them into the body.

When properly performed, a fat transfer can last a long time. In areas where the fat does get resorbed, the area can continue to be tweaked. For patients who want to continue to have volume enhancement, but desire natural results (i.e., lip enhancement), this is an ideal procedure. This is especially the case for those who are not comfortable using an implant.

Scarring is minimal during a fat transfer procedure. Any scars that remain will be small (either where the cannula or the syringe was inserted for the transfer). The incisions are usually placed in areas where they can be concealed by clothing. 

For loss of facial volume, there are treatments that may be considered that will also produce positive results. For wrinkle problems, an injectable filler may be suitable. These fillers may include collagen or hyaluronic acid. For long-term results, patients may consider PMMA, an injectable filler that offers a semi-permanent solution. Every option can be discussed in detail during the initial consultation.