INTRODUCTION TO FAT TRANSFER
A Fat Transfer is exactly what it sounds like—removing fat from an area in which you have some “extra” to an area where fat is needed. This can be fat removed by liposuction in the belly area and transferred to the back of the hands, the cheeks, the buttocks, your lips or even your breasts.

Fat transfer is changing the way plastic surgery is performed all over the world, particularly in facial rejuvenation. Also called “Fat Grafting” or “Autologous Fat Transfer,” this method of rejuvenating the face is becoming more and more popular as surgeons learn more about the potential of stem cells—cells which come from your own body—to enable fat to last longer once transferred.

As we age, the fat in our bodies decreases in some areas and increases in others, much to our dismay! While your facial fat seems to disappear, giving you sagging cheeks and a turkey neck, the fat in your abdomen and bottom seems to expand! The use of liposuction and fat transfer can help address both problems simultaneously, taking advantage of the extra fat to help plump up those facial areas that look younger with a bit more fat. The backs of the hands also age with time, leaving them thinner and exposing the veins and tendons. Injecting dermal fillers is one option; injecting fat is now another.

GOOD CANDIDATES FOR A FAT TRANSFER IN MICHIGAN
In general, most healthy men or women are appropriate candidates for fat transfer.

Dr. F. Matthew Smith will review all the options for your fat transfer procedure with you at your private consultation at his Traverse City plastic surgery office, so that the two of you are in agreement as to the goals of your procedure.

HOW A TRAVERSE CITY FAT TRANSFER PROCEDURE IS PERFORMED
Dr. F. Matthew Smith performs most of his cosmetic surgeries, including fat transfer, in the accredited surgery suite at the Munson Medical Center. With the latest, cutting-edge equipment and a fully trained staff, the Munson Medical Center is an ideal place for his patients.

Because Dr. Smith wants to ensure a well-controlled and safe surgical experience that is comfortable for his patient, general anesthesia is always used for fat transfer procedures.

Once anesthesia has been induced, your procedure will begin. The area(s) from which the fat is to be removed are treated with liposuction and the fat retained. Once the fat has been specially processed, it is injected into the areas of the face or breast with very thin needles. There are usually no scars involved, although you might have small marks where the liposuction was performed.

RECOVERY FROM TRAVERSE CITY, MICHIGAN AUTOLOGOUS FAT EXCHANGE
Recovery is usually very rapid from a fat transfer procedure. Dr. Smith will give you full instructions as to showering or other post-procedure activities. 

Dr. Matthew Smith’s Traverse City fat transfer patients report a high satisfaction rate with their procedures. Please call us today for a consultation to discuss your interest in fat transfer at our Traverse City plastic surgery office.