Fat Injections - Another Type of Surgery

While most patients spent considerable time and energy leading a healthy lifestyle — which includes diet and exercise — in order to keep fat to a minimum, there are times when fat injections or fat transfers are highly desirable. In fat injections, fat is removed from the stomach or other area, and is injected into the facial area or into another part of the body. Fat injections add fullness to the face or the desired part of the body. This procedure provides some lifting and structure, and can also minimize some of the effects of aging.

In many cases, patients who are older can benefit from fat transfers. As we age, the dermis underneath the skin becomes thin. This can leave parts of the body looking too thin, and can even make parts of the skin appear to be sagging. Even very healthy patients who work out and have a small frame can find themselves looking more tired and older than they would like. In these cases, fat transfers can help.

Fat transfers can be used to fill in lines around the mouth, and can be used to augment the eyelid. They can be used to fill out the buttocks as well. When fat injections are used to augment the buttocks, this is sometimes called the Brazilian butt lift. Fat transfers can also be used to give hands a younger and more fuller appearance.

The procedure is done under local anesthesia and usually takes a few hours. The surgeon will harvest fat from the head, lower abdomen, or back using small syringes. The fat will then be processed in a special centrifuge before being injected into the desired area. Over the weeks of recovery time, some of the fat cells will be lost. However, when the procedure is performed correctly, a large percentage of the fat cells will remain and the face or desired area will retain a more youthful, fuller look permanently.

Although no surgery is completely free of risk, fat injections are considered very safe. This is because your own fat has been injected back into your body, and you can not be allergic to your own cells. This eliminates the risk of rejection and allergic reaction which can be a problem with other types of procedures. Antibiotics are taken before and after the surgery, but infection is still a minor risk. Some patients experience swelling and bruising after the procedure, but these eventually subside. One possible risk is asymmetry or unevenness of the final effect, but this can be largely eliminated by choosing a qualified, experienced Dallas plastic surgeon who carefully molds the fat cells towards the end of the procedure.

Most patients experience only minimal discomfort and only require one day away from work. Most patients need to avoid strenuous activity for seven to 10 days after the procedure, while the body recovers fully.

If you are interested in fat injections, there are many Dallas plastic surgeons who are qualified to perform the procedure. One of these professionals is Dr. W. K. Miles. Dr. Miles performs a number of surgeries, including fact transfers. He graduated from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School and completed residencies at Mt. Carmel Mercy Hospital and the University of Michigan . Dr. Miles has certifications from the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, and the American Board ORL/ Head and Neck Surgery (ABMS Board).