Fat Grafting in Chandler AZ

Fat grafting has become increasingly popular in the past two decades under various names, such as fat transfer, fat injections, and lipofiling. This procedure takes different names depending on the treated area. Fat grafting developed into a convenient solution for filling irregularities and grooves in the body and face and is now opted for patients worldwide. This simple procedure involves transferring fat to areas such as sunken cheeks, unnoticeable cheekbones, small and thin lips, and much more. An added benefit includes increased volume to other body parts, like hands, breasts, and buttocks.

Considering the long-lasting and natural-looking results of fat grafting, thousands of people undergo this procedure every year. If you’re interested to know more about fat grafting and how it is performed, keep reading! This article will provide you with the necessary details and the best options for fat grafting in Chandler.

What is Fat Grafting in Chandler?

The idea of transferring fat from one body part to another to enhance a certain physical feature may be unimaginable for some people. However, this is a commonly performed procedure also known as fat grafting. This technique utilizes liposuction to extract fat from one area of the body and transfer it to another. 

Like any other cosmetic procedure, fat grafting in Chandler starts with consultations with a plastic surgeon who will examine the patient’s medical history, overall health, and aesthetic goals. 

The result of this cosmetic procedure is the aesthetic enhancement of various body parts, such as the face, breasts, hips, thighs, and buttocks. Even though this procedure can technically be performed on any body part, it is primarily utilized to enhance facial features, such as cheeks, cheekbones, and lips, restore volume due to aging, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and creases.

After the fat is extracted from the body, it undergoes purification and preparation before the injection process to maximize its chances of survival. Once the fat has been injected, the surgeon will massage the area to ensure the cells are evenly distributed and to minimize risks of any irregularities. Some fat cells immediately and successfully establish themselves and become a permanent part of the new area, while others may be absorbed into the body. Additional injections may be necessary if a patient is not fully satisfied. Patients may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in treated areas after the procedure, but these side effects are usually mild and disappear after a few days.

Related Topic: Breast lift with fat grafting can be beneficial for mothers after breastfeeding

Pros and Cons of Fat Grafting in Chandler

Even though fat grafting is considered a safe and effective procedure, it is essential to evaluate both advantages and disadvantages before making the final decision. There are numerous benefits of fat grafting, but it wouldn’t hurt to be aware of possible risks as well.

Pros:

  1. Fat grafting is a safe and natural procedure that involves transferring a patient’s own fat to another area. Therefore, the chances of allergic reactions or rejection are reduced.
  2. Natural and long-lasting results: The transferred fat can last for years or even permanently. The procedure provides a more youthful appearance and increases the patient’s self-esteem and confidence.
  3. No scar tissue: Fat grafting is a minimally invasive procedure which means it leaves small scars that will eventually fade away, or no scars at all due to the fact that the procedure involves only small incisions.
  4. Versatility: Fat grafting is not specified for the facial area only. This procedure can be performed on various body parts, such as hands, thighs, breasts, buttocks, etc.
  5. Minimal recovery time: Since this is an invasive procedure, recovery time is not as long as with surgical procedures. Patients are able to return to work and other activities within a few days.

Cons:

  1. Cost: Procedures involving fat transfer may be expensive since they involve natural resources. Health insurance may not be able to cover the expenses of fat grafting if it is considered a cosmetic procedure.
  2. Infection and scarring: Although fat grafting is among the safest cosmetic procedures nowadays, the potential risk of infection and scarring shouldn’t be neglected. Though rare, infections are still possible after the procedure. The same stands for scarring at the incision site.
  3. Unpredictable and uneven results: The results of fat grafting procedures can be unpredictable and it may not be possible to achieve the desired look after the first treatment. Many patients are required to repeat the procedure several times in order to achieve the smooth and even look they wanted.
  4. Bruising, swelling, and discomfort: This procedure can be uncomfortable and cause pain following the surgery. Patients may also experience bruising and swelling after the procedure.
  5. Fat absorption: The body may reabsorb transferred fat over time, which may lead to less optimal results and additional procedures.

Fat Grafting Candidates

While many people are interested in fat grafting for obvious reasons, not everyone is a suitable candidate. The plastic surgeon will evaluate the patient’s overall health and determine if he/she is in an adequate condition for fat transfer.

Here are several common factors that make someone a good candidate for this procedure:

  1. Good general health: Suitable candidates for fat grafting should be in good overall health, with no chronic medical diseases, blood clots, or other conditions that may affect the healing process.
  2. Sufficient fat deposits: Satisfactory amounts of fat are necessary in order to make fat grafting possible. Patients must have enough fat deposits in their donor site to achieve desired looks and results.
  3. Good skin quality: Since fat grafting is typically performed on the face, patients with excellent skin quality are more likely to achieve optimal results and reach their goals. The skin should be elastic and healthy in order to successfully handle the procedure and adapt to new contours.
  4. Non-smoker: Being a non-smoker is extremely important for these types of procedures. Candidates for fat grafting should be non-smokers or willing to quit smoking for a significant period of time before and after the procedure. Smoking can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of complications.
  5. Stable weight: Patients should have a stable weight and preferably be close to their ideal body weight. Significant weight loss after the procedure can affect the results.
  6. Realistic expectations: It is essential for patients to have realistic expectations about what the procedure can accomplish. It is crucial to have a complete understanding of the procedure’s potential outcomes and limitations. 

In the end, it is up to a plastic surgeon to determine if someone is an adequate candidate for fat grafting or not. If, for some reason, you don’t fulfill the necessary requirements for fat grafting, there are numerous other procedures available to achieve your desired aesthetic looks. Plastic surgery has evolved significantly since its inception, and your plastic surgeon will likely recommend alternative options more suitable for you.

Related Topic: What is Fat Grafting?

How do I prepare for a fat transfer procedure?

Once you become a candidate for a fat transfer procedure, your plastic surgeon will provide you with detailed pre-operative instructions and answer all your questions. You shouldn’t hesitate to ask your doctors anything that interests you about the procedure, as well as to address and share your concerns. Your doctor will examine your medical history, take your overall health into account and perform a physical exam prior to the procedure.

Depending on your health, lifestyle, and habits, you could be advised to pay attention to the following:

  1. Stop smoking at least 4-6 weeks before and after the surgery. Smoking can easily interfere with the healing process and cause unwanted complications.
  2. Avoid taking blood-thinning medications and supplements that can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising during and after the procedure. Such medication is aspirin, but your surgeon will recommend avoiding other medications that propose a certain risk.
  3. Healthy diet and hydration: A healthy and well-balanced diet can help patients optimize their bodies for a healing process. Staying hydrated is also necessary for an effortless and fast recovery.
  4. Arrange transportation after the procedure. Patients are likely to experience dizziness and limited mobility after the procedure, so having someone to safely get them home is mandatory.
  5. Take your time after the procedure and prepare a comfortable recovery area with all the necessities.

Fat Grafting Recovery

Recovery after fat grafting is different for every patient since it depends on multiple factors. No one can safely say how long the recovery period will last, but one thing is certain – recovery requires patience and careful attention to post-operative care.

Your plastic surgeon will give you detailed instructions on how you should behave and what to do in order to recover as quickly as possible. Generally, patients are advised against exercising in the first weeks after the procedure. They may also feel discomfort and mild pain for up to 48 hours, as well as notice bruising and swelling at the incision site for up to 72 hours. You can always consider wearing compression garments to reduce bruising and swelling. All these sensations will subside after a while and you will be left with the natural appearance you expected. 

Depending on the fat grafting type and the body part the procedure is performed, your surgeon can advise you to avoid putting pressure on certain areas, change the sleeping position, and wear a binder to prevent forming of the blood clots under the skin.

It is also highly important to rest to allow your body to heal properly. You should avoid bending over, lifting heavy objects, and twisting your body.

In general, you will be able to fully return to your daily activities within a few weeks. Anyhow, make sure to contact your doctor for any unusual changes or symptoms and attend follow-up appointments regularly.

Final Thoughts

Schedule a consultation with an accredited plastic surgeon if you are considering a fat grafting procedure. This will give you the opportunity to discuss your goals, desires, concerns, and expectations and receive personalized recommendations. Make sure to ask relevant questions and take notes during the consultation to remember all the important details. 

The key to a successful fat grafting procedure is good communication with your surgeon and an understanding of the pros, cons, and limitations of the procedure. And remember, having realistic expectations is crucial.

FAQs

Will I have incision scars from fat grafting in Chandler?

You might have scars from liposuction, but the scarring tissue should be small and well-hidden. The majority of liposuction scars fade over time. However, some amount of scarring is possible during fat grafting, and it mostly depends on your genetics and the surgeon’s skills.

How long does fat grafting last?

The fat injected into your body becomes permanent soft tissue. However, like all our natural tissue, it is susceptible to change as you age over time and alter in weight.

What are the risks of fat grafting?

Complications of fat grafting are not typical, but you can experience infections, asymmetry, scarring, bruising, and fat embolism. After all, you may not be completely satisfied with the results.

Are there any areas where fat is not an ideal filler?

Yes, but this is on a case-by-case basis. Fat grafting is not optimal for lips and facial lines because fat doesn’t take to these areas as well as for other body parts. 

Selecting The Best Fat Grafting Surgeon

At the very end of this article, we want to present to you Dr. Rimma Finkel! She is an experienced and trustworthy plastic surgeon ready to support and work with every patient and provide top-notch aesthetic results! Fat transfers in Chandler, AZ, have never been easier and more accessible. 

Dr. Finkel provides cosmetic and reconstructive services and knows what’s best for each of her patients. You will know you are in the right hands considering her many years in the industry, double-board certification, and a team of professionals aimed to create a positive and pleasant environment.

So, if you’re seeking the best plastic surgeon in Chandler, look no more! Contact Dr. Finkel today and start working on your aesthetic goals.

Selecting The Right Fat Grafting Surgeon

Dr. Rimma Finkel

Fat Grafting in Chandler

Dr. Finkel is double board-certified in Gilbert Plastic Surgery. She also has multiple professional memberships to back this up.

After graduating from the University of Tennessee College of Medicine in 2001, she trained in General Surgery at Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center until 2006 and then in Plastic Surgery at the University of Louisville. Upon completion of these programs in 2008, Dr. Finkel started her own private practice.

Her professional memberships include:

American Academy of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

American Association of Plastic Surgeons

American Board of Plastic Surgery

American Society of Plastic Surgeons