Fat Transfer (Fat Injections) in Everett, Washington

Sometimes areas in the face, such as the folds between the cheeks and lips, can be enhanced by replacement of fat. This involves the use of liposuction and fat-processing that optimizes and prepares fat from another part of the body for use in the face or body. Once injected, your fat needs to acquire a new blood supply in the new location in order to achieve a good “take.” The techniques aim to achieve the highest possible long-term survival of the transferred fat. This technique can also be used in some reconstructive situations, such as after loss of tissue due to cancer or trauma, or occasionally to improve difficult scarred areas.

What to expect: Your procedure will begin after consulting with one of our surgeons and your anesthesiologist or anesthetist. Through small incisions, your surgeon will remove a predetermined amount of fat from another area of the body, such as the abdomen. The fat is processed using sterile technique and then carefully placed using an injection cannula into the areas where fat injections and tissue augmentation are planned.

The recovery: The areas where the fat was removed and placed will generally have some pain and swelling that improve over several weeks. Your postoperative course is monitored in the clinic by your surgeon and the staff.

Some of the unlikely complications: Infection, fluid collection, or bleeding can occur and may require surgical drainage. Contour irregularities or asymmetry can sometimes occur. A more complete discussion of the risks, benefits, and alternatives will always be included at your visit. As always, our efforts are directed at minimizing the risk of these complications and optimizing your safety.