FAQ

• what is fat transfer?

  Fat transfer (otherwise known as fat grafting) is a process that involves harvesting fat cells from other parts of the body where there is excess, the thighs for example, and injecting them into the treatment site to increase plumpness and volume.

  As well as the face, other popular areas for fat transfer treatments include hands, breasts or buttocks.

• which areas are suitable for treatment?

  Surgical fat transfer treatments are effective at restoring lost volume in the face, particularly around the cheeks, temples and the under-eye area. The procedure can also be effective in plumping the breasts and buttocks.

• how is the procedure carried out?

  A detailed consultation with a consultant plastic surgeon is essential before undergoing any of our surgical procedures, including facial fat transfer.

  During the consultation, your surgeon will discuss any problem areas, desired improvements, options available (including no treatment at all) and expected outcomes.

  Should facial fat transfer be agreed upon as the most suitable course of treatment, the procedure will be carried out in our newly refurbished operating theatre.

  Fat is removed under local anaesthetic from another area of the body, generally the inner aspect of the knee. The fat is then centrifuged, or purified, to separate the healthy fat cells from the damaged ones, before being injected into the face to restore lost volume.

• how many treatments will I need?

  Over a period of time, some of the relocated fat is resorbed. That means it is usually necessary to undertake facial fat transfer as a course of 2 or 3 treatments, followed by annual or bi-annual top-ups.

• what results should I expect?

  The results of a facial fat transfer treatment are visible instantly after treatment. Wrinkles and folds at the treatment site will appear reduced, leaving skin visibly lifted and fuller. By restoring lost volume, skin may look smoother and softer, restoring a fresher, more youthful glow.

• is there any downtime?

  Generally speaking both fat removal at the donor site and reintroduction at the treatment site is carried out using a needle and without the need for any incision or sutures. Patients will invariably experience localised bruising, redness, or swelling at the injection site however this tends to subside after around one week post-treatment.

• can I resume normal activity immediately after treatment?

  Whilst fat transfer is minimally invasive, it is advisable to refrain from exercise for 7-14 days post-treatment.

• What pre and post-procedure advice must I follow?

  Pre-procedure

  We are governed by CQC guidelines which state a consultation must be carried out prior to any surgical appointment being booked. The consultation must be conducted at least 2 weeks, but not more than 4 months prior to the surgery.

  On the day of your facial fat transfer treatment, you are advised to eat and drink as normal. Eating something sugary such as a biscuit ahead of the procedure is also recommended.

  Contact lenses should be removed prior to arrival at the clinic.

  Post-procedure

  Patients should not drive for 24 hours post-procedure, therefore arrangements for a taxi or driver should be made.