Fat Grafting

Fat grafting is an innovative procedure in which fat is harvested and purified from an area of the body where it is unwanted such as the hips, belly or thighs, and injected into an area that lacks volume such as the face, breast or buttocks. Discomfort and scarring are minimal with the fat transfer procedure, and it can be highly customized to the individual’s unique anatomy and aesthetic sensibilities.

What is fat grafting?

As one ages, the fat volume in the cheeks, eyelids and other areas of the body begins to decline, causing a hollowed appearance and a depleted, tired look. Loss of fat volume can often make a patient look older than they are. Fat grafting provides a cutting-edge solution to this cosmetic problem and can actually make your skin look healthier and more vibrant.

Liposuction is typically used to extract the fat from the donor area, such as the belly, the hips or thighs, or the lower back. Once the fat cells are extracted, they are purified and sterilized. This improves the survival rate for the fat graft and leads to longer-lasting results. The next step is the injection of the donor fat into the target area

This is done carefully and strategically in order to achieve a natural, balanced outcome. It is very rare that anyone has a negative reaction to fat grafting, since the fat is taken from the patient's own body. The procedure results in a minimal amount of discomfort and post-operative scarring.

What are the benefits of fat grafting?

Excellent treatment for fine lines, wrinkles and dark circles around the eyes
Provides a smooth, firm and natural look
Slims and tones the donor area
Helps reverse the most damaging signs of aging
Helps revitalize your self-confidence and self-image

Woman hugging herself outside while looking off in the distance

Who is a good candidate for fat grafting?

Among the most important requirements for fat grafting is that the patient have adequate fat available at the donor site for transfer. Most patients who are in good physical and emotional health, who refrain from smoking and who are realistic in their expectations will qualify to receive a fat transfer procedure. Excellent circulation is also mandatory for fat grafting.

Fat transfer is an excellent solution for patients who are in the early stages of the aging process and who are plagued by volume loss in the cheeks, temples, around the eyes or in the breasts or buttocks.

What can I expect from my recovery?

Facial fat grafting will result in some minor swelling and bruising especially when it is performed around the eyes. These side effects last up to two weeks, but patients may return to work sooner using makeup to cover any discoloration. Dr. Zampell will provide you with a full roadmap for your surgery and recovery at the time of your consultation, answering all your questions in depth. You will also receive timely follow-up visits to ensure your recuperation is progressing properly.

Zampell Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

Why choose Dr. Zampell in Beverly Hills for fat grafting?

Dr. Zampell has many years of expertise and skill in plastic and reconstructive surgery. At the Ochsner Medical Center in Louisiana, she worked closely with pioneering veteran Dr. Robert Allen, an innovator responsible for many of the autologous flap surgery techniques used around the world today.

Dr. Zampell graduated with honors from Ohio State University College of Medicine in 2006, after which she completed a plastic surgery residency at New York University Medical Center. Dr. Zampell subsequently pursued an elite fellowship in the complex field of microsurgery at the University of California Los Angeles.