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By Abdulaziz Ali - Medically reviewed by Prof. Zeynep Sevim, on Aug 25, 2023

Fat transfer surgery or fat grafting surgery is not recommended for underweight patients since they cannot have enough fat tissue required for fat harvesting. Therefore, patients usually need to be a bit overweight for this surgery. Patients must also be in good health and stop smoking before surgery.

Fat Transfer Recovery Period

An overnight stay may be required. The fat grafting surgery recovery period depends on where the fat is harvested from, the area where it is reinjected and the amount of fat used. There will probably be bruising and swelling in the treated area for a week or two. Patients may need to take a couple of weeks off work. 

How long is the surgery? 

The fat transfer surgery will take 1 to 2 hours.

How many days should I travel/stay abroad to do the treatment?

You can expect to travel abroad for at least 1 week. 

How to prepare for the fat transfer procedure?

Heavy smokers need to quit smoking at least a month before going in for fat transfer surgery as it can have a negative effect on the outcome of fat transfer surgery. Blood thinners such as aspirin, herbal supplements, and anti-inflammatory medicines are also not allowed at least 2 weeks before the surgery.

How Is The Procedure Performed? 

Fat transfer surgery requires both local and general anesthesia. Once the anesthesia is applied, the surgeon begins harvesting the extra fat from the patient’s body through liposuction.

The harvested fat is then reinjected into the patient’s treated area such as the face, hands, buttocks, or breast, according to a pre-set objective. Once the expected result is achieved surgery is completed and the fat grafting recovery period can begin.

Fat Grafting Side Effects 

Fat grafting surgery’s risks and complications can include: 

  • A negative reaction to anesthesia 
  • Infection in the area where the fat is harvested 
  • Changes in sensation
  • Scarring 
  • Damage to tissues in the liposuction area 
  • Revision surgery due to the unsatisfactory results

After the first week, these post-operatory side effects, such as swelling and bruising, will gradually subside. However, in some cases during the second-week swelling may still remain. Sports and strenuous activities should be avoided for 2 weeks after the procedure, and smoking is strongly prohibited at least for a month after the surgery.

Fat Transfer Success Rate 

A survey based on 309 fat grafting surgery patients sets the satisfaction rate at 84%. Fat transfer surgery is a safe and satisfactory procedure that provides long-lasting results to patients. It’s important to note that patients need to keep their weight stable in order to maintain their surgical results.

Fat transfer surgery results last practically indefinitely. The patient is required to maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle after the surgery for the results to last.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Will the Skin Around The Donor Site Become Saggy Once The Fat Is Removed?
Fat transfer surgery does not cause your skin to sag. If the patient's body does not contain enough fat, the operation will not be performed. The amount of fat that can be safely harvested is limited to ensure that the skin is not sagging after fat grafting.

Are There Any Fat Transfer Surgery Alternatives?
Yes, dermal fillers. You can undergo your fat transfer surgery or choose any other alternative treatments abroad, for example, in a country like Turkey, which has proved its successful and cost-effective approach in health tourism for years. 

When can I get back to sports after the treatment? 

You can expect to get back to exercise after 2 weeks.