Fat Grafting - How Your Own Fat Can Restore Shape
Fat grafting, also called autologous fat transfer, is a procedure where your own fat is removed from one area of the body, processed, and then injected into another area to restore volume, improve contour, or soften scar tissue.
Since the procedure uses your own cells, the results often look and feel more natural than those from synthetic products — and they can last a long time.
How fat grafting works
Fat harvesting – Fat is usually taken from areas such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks using liposuction techniques.
Fat processing – The fat is carefully processed and prepared to keep the healthy fat cells and regenerative cells intact.
Fat injection – The fat is placed into the treatment area in threads or droplets, allowing it to develop a healthy blood supply and survive long-term.
Why patients choose fat grafting
Patients may choose fat grafting for several reasons:
No synthetic materials – The procedure avoids introducing artificial products into your body.
Natural compatibility – Your own fat blends and integrates with surrounding tissue.
Dual benefit – You can slim one area while enhancing another.
Skin rejuvenation – Fat contains stem cells that can improve skin texture, elasticity, and softness.
Versatile use – Suitable for both cosmetic improvements and reconstructive needs.
Common fat grafting treatments
Breast augmentation with fat transfer – Increases breast size and improves shape without implants. Used for a subtle enhancement while avoiding synthetic materials.
Breast reconstruction refinement – Improves symmetry and contour after mastectomy, lumpectomy, or previous reconstruction surgery.
Facial fat transfer – Restores age-related volume loss to the cheeks, temples, and lips, while smoothing fine lines, folds, and wrinkles.
Buttock augmentation (Brazilian butt lift) – Enhances the shape, projection and contour of the buttocks using your own fat.
Scar and skin quality improvement – Softens tight or sunken scars, and restores tissue damaged by trauma or radiation.
What to expect after fat grafting
Recovery – Mild swelling and bruising are normal in both the donor and treated areas.
Results – Some of the transferred fat will be naturally reabsorbed; the rest remains long-term.
Multiple sessions – May be recommended for larger volume increases or complex cases.
Is fat transfer safe?
When performed by a qualified plastic surgeon using precise techniques, fat grafting is considered safe. The key is to inject small amounts evenly throughout the area so each fat droplet can develop a healthy blood supply — reducing the risk of lumps or irregularities. However, all surgery carries risks and individual results will differ.
The bottom line
Fat grafting is a safe, effective way to enhance your body or restore areas affected by ageing, surgery, radiation, or injury — all using your own natural tissue. Whether for cosmetic enhancement or reconstruction after surgery, it can offer long-lasting results without the need for synthetic implants.
If you think fat grafting might be right for you, speak to a qualified plastic surgeon who can explain your options and create a plan tailored to your goals.
Dr. Jenaleen Law
Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon
MED0001775113
