Fat Transfer
What Is Fat Transfer?
Fat transfer, also called fat grafting, is a procedure that uses your own fat to restore volume, improve contour, and enhance definition in targeted areas. Fat is first gently harvested with liposuction from areas such as the abdomen, flanks, or thighs. It is then carefully processed and strategically re-injected in small amounts to sculpt the desired region with a natural look and feel.
Fat transfer can be used to restore facial volume, soften contour irregularities, enhance the breasts or buttocks, and improve the quality of scarred or thin tissue in select situations. In properly selected patients, fat grafting can also be used to enhance definition by placing fat in, over, or around specific muscle groups to accentuate underlying anatomy. When performed with a refined, anatomically precise approach, this can help create a more athletic contour, for example by emphasizing natural transitions and highlights in areas where muscle definition is desired.
Because fat grafting is technique-dependent, the plan must be individualized to your anatomy, donor fat availability, tissue quality, and long-term goals.
What Are the Benefits of Fat Transfer?
Fat transfer offers a sophisticated, natural approach to contour enhancement and volume restoration. Benefits may include:
Natural-looking volume using your own tissue rather than synthetic material
Dual improvement by removing unwanted fat from one area and enhancing another
Soft, realistic feel that can integrate seamlessly with surrounding tissues
Customizable shaping, including subtle refinement or more noticeable contour changes
Enhanced definition of select muscle groups
In select cases, improvement in the appearance and quality of thin or irregular tissue
Results can be long-lasting, although some of the transferred fat does not survive. The goal is a balanced, proportionate result that looks appropriate for your frame.
Who Are Candidates for Fat Transfer?
You may be a good candidate for fat transfer if you want natural volume enhancement and have adequate donor fat for harvesting. Ideal candidates often:
Are in good overall health and at a stable weight
Have enough donor fat in areas such as the abdomen, flanks, or thighs
Want contour improvement using their own tissue and understand that results are variable
Prefer a natural alternative to implants or, in some cases, want fat transfer to complement an implant or surgical lift
Are willing to follow postoperative guidance to optimize fat graft survival
Fat transfer may be less predictable in patients with very low body fat or those with factors that can impair healing. During your consultation, Dr. Cheng will evaluate donor sites, tissue quality, and goals to determine whether fat transfer is appropriate and, if so, design a plan that prioritizes safety and a refined, natural result.
