Plastic surgeons have long known that fat possesses wonderful properties, and that it can be harvested and injected for volume augmentation in many diverse conditions. What makes fat different from, and in many ways better than, any other fillers is the fact that it is natural tissue harvested from a person’s own body, and its longevity is much greater than that of synthetic non permanent fillers (such as hyaluronic acid fillers, e.g. Juvéderm®). Whether used to provide fuller cheekbones, fill in depressions, decrease the appearance of hollows under eyes, or plump up lips, fat yields long lasting and natural looking results.
Often referred to as liposculpture or lipostructure, surgical fat injections are used to shape, mold and beautify the contours of the face or body to create a more appealing and youthful look. The procedure involves a certain amount of artistry in order to produce the desired aesthetic results. Fat contains stem cells, which help in the survival (or “take”) of the injected fat by promoting new blood supply in the area and releasing growth factors which aid with healing. Although some of the fat may resorb with time, most of the injected fat survives and patients are usually extremely satisfied with the results of this procedure.
The first step in obtaining fat for liposculpture involves harvesting the fat using a process similar to liposuction. The fat is then centrifuged to separate out the liquid component of the aspirated material, and purified fat is then reinjected into the desired areas using cannulas and tiny incisions. The procedure is usually performed in the Operating Room under local anaesthesia with sedation, and recovery is very quick. Other aesthetic surgical procedures such as blepharoplasty, breast augmentation and liposuction may be performed concurrently.
Dr. Olivia Hutchinson is a female board certified aesthetic plastic surgeon practicing in New York and Englewood, NJ. She performs liposculpture with autologous fat transfers in the privacy of her AAAASF certified Operating Room in Manhattan. Please contact us or call us at (212) 452-1400 to schedule a consultation.
