After Fat Transfer Surgery

Storm in the kitchen (Credit: Dr. Yuji)

After the procedure, you may need someone to drive you home. You may also need someone to help you with daily living activities during the time specified by your doctor. The doctor will instruct you to limit activity, including exercise, for up to three weeks after the procedure. Within two to three days after the procedure, the bandage is removed by the doctor. Patients can begin to shower after the bandage is removed.

There is typically some swelling and some bruising. The swelling may last for several weeks. However, bruising will subside within a few days. The treated area may be reddened within the first 48 hours. Discomfort can be managed with oral medications. Scabs may form at injection site as well. Normal activities can often be resumed almost immediately, except that you are advised to stay out of the sun.

Complications and Risks: Complications are possible with any medical procedure, but complications from fat transfers are infrequent. The most common, but infrequent, complications of fat transfers include uneven skin texture, infection, abscess, excessive bleeding, or scarring. If fat is injected into two or more areas, patients may have asymmetry whereby the fat appears uneven in different areas. Treatment for complications can range from oral medications to surgical intervention, depending upon the extent of the complication. Following the doctor's instructions before and after the procedure can reduce the risk of complications.

Consult a Qualified Plastic Surgeon: Talk to a qualified doctor about your goals and the treatment options available for your condition. A qualified doctor will help ensure the treatment is appropriate for your condition, increase the odds of success, and reduce the risk of complications.

Costs: The fat transfer procedure includes three costs: local, regional, or general anesthesia fees, facility fees, and surgeon's fees. Other cost factors include the doctor's skill and training, the geographic location, and the technique. It is difficult to establish an average cost for the fat transfer procedure because every case is unique. Since body fat transfers may be performed during other procedures, anesthesia and facility fees may be combined with those procedures. The total fees for fat transfers can range from a minimum of $5,000 to $10,000 or more.