FAT GRAFTING

Fat grafting is a procedure with many applications and excellent results.

Lately, fat grafting is becoming all the more popular among plastic surgeons globally since it offers solutions to cosmetic problems, while it is a useful technique for revision surgeries. Fat grafting adds volume, while it also improves skin texture and the appearance of scars due to the stem cells contained in the fat.

It is a simple procedure, provided that the surgeon is well aware of all the details the technique involves so as to achieve optimal and lasting results.

Fat grafting can be applied in lip, cheek and nasolabial fold augmentation. Furthermore, improvement in skin quality has been observed in the case of facial acne scars. Large quantities of fat are also grafted for breast augmentation. In this case, though, the largest volume of fat must be harvested from the thighs and buttocks. This technique is performed in two stages, as at least 40% of the volume is absorbed in the first four months. So a repeat procedure is usually necessary. In reconstructive surgery, fat grafting is applied to deficits arising from injuries and surgical procedures (e.g. breast oncotomy), as well as congenital disorders, such as hemifacial atrophy. It may also be applied in revision liposuction following the appearance of depressions.

Fat is harvested via liposuction, using small nozzles measuring 2-3mm in diameter and a technique that will cause minimal injury. If only a small quantity of fat is required, the procedure may be performed under local anesthesia, but for larger quantities, such as breast augmentation surgery, general anesthesia is required. The required quantity of fat is mildly processed to remove the blood usually mixed in during liposuction, while it is injected in the area using special microcannulas. Naturally, some of the fat is absorbed and the quantity that remains will be the final and permanent result. This is why some overcorrection is performed, so that the final result is what was initially desired. The details of the fat grafting technique are pivotal in ensuring the smallest possible loss of volume.

Therefore, fat is not necessarily bad for the body and if used properly, it may prove beneficial.