Lipofilling

Lipofilling (also known as fat transfer, fat grafting, or fat injection) is a versatile procedure that involves harvesting fat from one part of the body and injecting it into another area to enhance volume, improve contours, and rejuvenate the skin. This technique is commonly used for breast augmentation, corrective breast surgery, or skin rejuvenation, as well to restore volume to the face, hands, or buttocks. Fat transfer provides natural-looking results with a lower risk of allergic reactions since the fat is harvested from the patient's own body.

Ms Teo is particularly passionate about lipofilling and has authored two text book chapters on the topic. She is be happy to will help you understand the procedure, address any concerns, and develop a personalized plan to achieve your desired results.

Procedure overview

Type of anaesthetic

  • General

Length of operation

  • 1-3 hours

Length of hospital stay

  • Same day discharge

Recovery period

  • A few days to 2 weeks off work

  • 3-6 weeks before strenuous exercise

What you need to know

Suitability

Lipofilling is suitable for individuals looking to enhance or restore volume in areas such as the face, breasts, hands, or buttocks. Ideal candidates should be in good overall health and have sufficient fat deposits in donor areas such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks. It’s important to have realistic expectations and to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine if fat transfer is the right option for your cosmetic goals.

Combination with other treatments

Lipofilling can be combined with other cosmetic procedures to enhance overall results. Many patients choose to pair fat transfer with liposuction or body contouring for a more comprehensive rejuvenation. Discussing your overall aesthetic goals with your surgeon will help in creating a tailored treatment plan.

Procedure details

Lipofilling involves three main steps: harvesting, purification, and injection. First, fat is harvested from donor areas using liposuction. The collected fat is then purified to remove excess fluids and contaminants. Finally, the purified fat is carefully injected into the target areas to achieve the desired volume and contour. The entire process can take a few hours, depending on the extent of the treatment and the areas being addressed.

Benefits of lipofilling

One of the key benefits of lipofilling is its ability to provide natural-looking results. Because the procedure uses your own fat, the enhanced areas typically feel and look more natural compared to synthetic fillers or implants. The transferred fat integrates with the existing tissue, creating smooth and realistic contours that enhance your overall appearance.

Lipofilling offers a high degree of customisation, allowing your surgeon to precisely target and sculpt specific areas to achieve your desired look. Whether you seek subtle volume enhancement in the face or more significant contouring in the breasts or buttocks, fat transfer can be tailored to meet your individual aesthetic goals, providing personalised and satisfying outcomes.

Recovery

Recovery from lipofilling varies depending on the areas treated and the amount of fat transferred. Patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in both the donor and recipient sites. These symptoms usually subside within a few weeks. Most individuals can resume light activities within a week but should avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for at least three to six weeks. Following your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions is crucial for optimal healing and results.

Potential complications

As with any surgical procedure, liposuction carries certain risks, including infection, bleeding, and adverse reactions to anesthesia.

Specific complications might include fat reabsorption, uneven results, and the formation of lumps or cysts.

Mrs Teo will discuss all possible risks and complications during your consultation to ensure you make an informed decision.

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 FAQs

  • Lipofilling is used to enhance volume, improve contours, and rejuvenate the skin. Common applications include breast augmentation and correcting contour deformities and scarring.

  • Good candidates are individuals who have sufficient fat stores for harvesting and are looking to enhance volume or correct contour irregularities. Candidates should be in good overall health, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations about the outcomes.

  • While some improvements may be visible immediately, the final results typically become apparent after several months, once swelling has subsided and the fat has settled. Your surgeon will provide a timeline for your specific case.

  • Lipofilling involves small incisions, which typically result in minimal and inconspicuous scarring. These scars will fade over time and can be easily concealed.

  • The results of fat transfer can be long-lasting, but not all transferred fat cells will survive. Some fat may be reabsorbed by the body over time, and additional treatments may be needed to achieve the desired results.

  • Yes, lipofilling can be combined with other cosmetic procedures, such as a tummy tuck, breast lift, or body contouring, to achieve more comprehensive results.

Ms Teo’s textbook chapters on lipofilling

1.     Teo I, Soldin M. Anatomy, physiology and pathology of body fat. In: Oxford Textbook or Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Ed. Kay S, Wilks D, McCombe D. Aug 2021

2.     M Gasparotti, Teo I, Florio A, Lazerri D, Soldin M. Liposculpture. In: Oxford Textbook or Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Ed. Kay S, Wilks D, McCombe D. Aug 2021

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Take the first step of your cosmetic surgery journey by booking a personalised consultation with Isabel, where you can ask detailed questions, discuss your specific goals, and receive expert guidance tailored to your unique needs.