Fat grafting

What happens during fat grafting?

Fat grafting can be performed under general or local anaesthetic depending on the area being treated. Your surgeon will use a very thin needle (called a cannula) to harvest cells from an area of your body and inject these cells into the area being augmented. A dressing may be applied just after the procedure.

Going home after fat grafting

Fat grafting is usually done as a day case meaning you should be able to go home the day of your procedure. You should arrange for someone to drive you home. You may be given antibiotics and medication for pain relief.

It is normal to feel swollen and bruised for about one week following fat grafting. You should avoid any strenuous activities for the first few weeks but you are encouraged to walk to prevent blood clots.

You should discuss your return to work with your surgeon. The treated area may remain swollen for several weeks. 

You will need to return for a follow up appointment with your surgeon 7-10 days after fat grafting. During this appointment any sutures will be removed. 

You may not see the full effect of fat grafting for up to 6 months after your grafting.

Sometimes the body does not retain all of the injected fat. In this case it may be necessary to repeat the grafting procedure. 

Most people are pleased with the results of their fat grafting. As with any cosmetic procedure there could be complications:

• Pain
• Infection
• Scarring

Specific complications of fat grafting:

• Bleeding under the skin
• Numbness or nerve damage
• Excessive resorption of fat (meaning the procedure must be repeated)