WHAT IS FAT TRANSFER?

Fat transfer is the removal of fat from one area of the body and re-injecting it into another area. This can be done at the same time as liposculpture or at as a separate more minor procedure. Using the body’s own cells as a filler has a few major advantages. Firstly, there is virtually no risk of allergic reaction or rejection of the auto graft, as living tissue the body does not reabsorb the fat and so the results last longer than most other fillers provided that the patient does not lose excessive weight , the result is often a very natural one and restores the contours of youth.

When injected into the face there is often a secondary improvement in then quality of the skin due to a release of hormones from the donor fat and the creation of new blood vessels to supply the area. Fat transfer is not a correction for fine lines found in the dermis but it is a great bulking technique to lift sagging skin. Consequently, when combined with a thread lift can be a great alternative to a face lift for some suitable patients.

ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS?

Fat transfer is a relatively safe procedure. It uses the basic procedure of liposuction to harvest low volumes of fat. Consequently, the down time for fat transfer is usually less than for liposculpture. However, while most people have minimal bruising and swelling some patients experience significant swelling and may want to take more time of work. Patients have returned to work as soon as the next day. All risks and side effects are covered in detail during the consultation.

HOW LONG WILL IT LAST?

As fat is a living tissue there is a degree of regeneration in the area, as such an effect generally lasts from 3 to 5 years. Yet, there have some people who have found that their transfer lasted up to twenty years. It is important to understand that there are a certain number of cells that die in the initial transplantation process and so overcorrection of the area is performed and a second transfer is done two months later. The second transfer is less involved a fat does not have e to be reharvested. A simple 30 minute visit to the clinic is all that is needed. Fat is further stored for up to 18months for a third treatment if necessary.

WHAT’S THE COST?

Fat transfer is one of the most cost effective fillers available as the body provides the reservoir of fat to be utilised. The cost includes an initial theatre fee and a procedure fee. This covers the harvesting and first two transfers. If a third treatment is needed a smaller fee applies. ARGERA does not charge a storage fee.