Was fat transfer worth it?

Author: Miss Alda Pfeffer MD  |  Last update: Friday, May 9, 2025

Truth: While fat transfer offers a natural enhancement, it typically increases breast size by only one cup at most. Unlike implants, which provide a more dramatic change, fat transfer is best for subtle, natural-looking volume enhancement. If you're seeking a significant size boost, implants may be the better option.

What is the downside to fat transfer?

Firmness, lumpiness, or asymmetry may occur also. If some of the fat does not survive the transfer, it may actually “die” and become firm and cause discomfort. Cysts may form at the transfer site and require a procedure to remove. A symmetrical body appearance unfortunately may not result from a fat transfer procedure.

What is the success rate of fat transfer?

In fact, only about 50% to 80% of injected fat cells will survive the transfer. The biggest reason for this? Inadequate blood supply. For your transferred fat cells to survive, they must quickly establish a blood supply in their new location.

How long does transferred fat last?

Do fat transfers last? Results from fat transfer are permanent. However, not all fat cells survive the procedure, so you may not achieve the volume you want. It takes about six months for the injected fat cells to develop a new blood supply and to see final results.

How many cup sizes can you gain with fat transfer?

Smaller breast size: Fat transfer increases breast size by one or two cup sizes. If you want larger breasts, you'll need breast implants. Sagging breasts: A fat transfer makes breasts larger, but breasts may still sag. You need a breast lift to get firm-looking breasts.

FAT TRANSFER Should You Get Fat Grafting

What is the ideal weight for fat transfer?

There is no specific weight requirement for fat transfer procedures; however, patients should ideally be within a healthy weight range; it's also acceptable for fat transfer patients to be slightly overweight.

How do you keep fat alive after breast fat transfer?

4 Ways to Maximize Fat Survival After Fat Transfer
  1. Adjust your sleeping position. Putting pressure on the treated area (i.e., the area where the fat was re-injected) can prompt fat reabsorption. ...
  2. Avoid smoking and alcohol. ...
  3. Eat a healthy diet. ...
  4. Listen to your body.

How much is a fat transfer?

Fat Transfer - Associated Costs

Be sure to ask your surgeon what the approximate cost will be for your specific fat transfer surgery during your consultation. The average cost for a fat transfer is $2,085*. *The above statistic comes from the 2021 Aesthetic Plastic Surgery National Databank Statistics.

Does a fat transfer get hard?

After fat transfer surgery, it is normal to have a moderate degree of swelling related to the procedure. Initially this swelling is manifest by a certain degree of firmness, which over time, will soften. Long-term, the area should not feel hard.

Does fat transfer go away if you lose weight?

Weight loss should not have to compromise your fat transfer results. The Kaplan Center for Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery can help enhance the shape of your face through advanced techniques in facial fat grafting. Enjoy fuller cheeks and more defined lips when working with a board-certified doctor, like Dr.

What is the best age for fat transfer?

Ideal candidates for fat transfer should be between the ages of 30 and 65 and in good general health with no circulation problems. You should also have realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve.

Who is the best candidate for fat transfer?

Are You a Suitable Candidate for a Fat Transfer Procedure?
  • They wish to enhance a specific area of the body, such as the breasts, buttocks or the back of the hands.
  • They have an adequate amount of fat to harvest from another area of the body.
  • They are in good general health, both physically and mentally speaking.

Does fat grow back after fat transfer?

Fat removal is permanent, and while fat cells removed with liposuction will not come back, it is possible to regain weight in that area. After a fat transfer, the fat cells will permanently stay in their new home. However, you may see a proportional change in the volume of fat if you have dramatic weight changes.

Can your body reject your own fat transfer?

Your body can't reject the transferred fat since it's your own tissue.

Can fat transfer to face go wrong?

However, it also carries with it some risks that patients should be aware of before undergoing the procedure. The most common side effects include swelling and bruising, infection, necrosis, complications from anesthesia, fat embolism syndrome, calcification of grafted fat, nerve damage, and unsatisfactory results.

How much fat dies after fat transfer?

Typically, fat graft survival is approximately 60%, which means the transferred fat will go on to survive in its new location. As such, Dr. Daugherty may graft more fat to promote optimal results.

Does fat transfer look natural?

This technique is ideal for filling deep wrinkles, augmenting cheeks, and restoring lost volume in the mid-face. Microfat transfer offers long-lasting results and a more natural appearance compared to synthetic fillers, as the transferred fat integrates seamlessly with existing tissue.

Will insurance cover fat transfer breast augmentation?

Fat transfer breast augmentation is often considered a cosmetic procedure and therefore not covered by most insurance plans. However, if the procedure is part of breast reconstruction surgery and deemed medically necessary, it may be covered.

Do lumps after fat transfer go away?

It is usually not noticeable until 6 to 8 months after the surgery, once the tissue flap has softened and the swelling is gone. Doctors call these lumps fat necrosis. Sometimes smaller areas of fat necrosis shrink or go away on their own.

What are gummy bear implants?

Gummy bear implants are the newest implant available. The consistency of the gel inside the implant is thicker which helps it maintain its shape. If the implant were to be cut in half, the shape would stay in place, the same way a gummy bear candy would if it were cut in two.

How long does fat transfer last?

Fat transfer results can last 2-5 years or longer, but some fat cells may be absorbed by the body over time and touch-ups may be required. Factors like weight changes, aging, and the patient's overall health can impact results. A qualified plastic surgeon can provide more information on long-term outcomes.

What is the minimum weight for fat transfer?

Underweight. A BMI less than 18.5 may indicate an underlying medical condition and may also make you a poor candidate for specific procedures. If your BMI suggests that you are underweight, you will not be a candidate for body procedures that include fat transfer, including Breast Fat Grafting and Brazilian Butt Lift.

Is breast fat transfer worth it?

Truth: While fat transfer offers a natural enhancement, it typically increases breast size by only one cup at most. Unlike implants, which provide a more dramatic change, fat transfer is best for subtle, natural-looking volume enhancement. If you're seeking a significant size boost, implants may be the better option.

Does caffeine affect fat transfer?

Avoid medications containing aspirin or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Naproxen) for 2 weeks before and after surgery. These medications may increase bleeding. Substances to Avoid: Avoid alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine, for these will dramatically slow the healing process.

How long to sleep on back after fat transfer?

You will be able to sleep on your back and your side after six weeks. Until then, you will need to sleep on your stomach to avoid putting pressure on the fat grafted areas. We cannot emphasize enough how important it is to adhere to these post-op aftercare and sleeping instructions. Dr.

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