Fat Transfer / Fat Grafting

Fat transfer is an excellent option for patients looking to add natural volume to their breasts, either due to volume loss through aging, or simply to add more volume to increase the size and improve the shape.

Fat transfer involves removing fat from one place via liposuction and reinjecting it into to another area to add volume and improve the shape. One of the additional benefits of fat grafting is the regenerative potential of the fat to improve the quality of the surrounding tissue including the overlying skin. Fat grafting is also very effective for treating breast asymmetry, or to smooth out irregularities sometime associated with implants.

About the surgery

During his training he was awarded a PhD from the University of Edinburgh for his international prize-winning research on stem cells within fat, and their regenerative potential. His work received multiple prizes from The British Association of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons and the European Association of Plastic Surgeons. Based on his research, Mr West routinely uses fat grafting and fat transfer as part of his approach to tissue rejuvenation.

Fat transfer can be performed alone or together with other procedures to rejuvenate the breast such augmentation, mastopexy and implant exchange. Fat grafting offers safe, long lasting and natural results for patients looking to restore natural volume to their breasts.

Indication

Volume loss, asymmetry, increase size

Anesthetic

General / deep sedation

Downtime

1 – 2 weeks

Results

Rebalancing and rejuvenation of tissue by volume restoration and tissue regeneration. Providing a natural and youthful look.

Anatomy

The required volume of fat is removed by liposuction and then injected to restore volume and rejuvenate tissues.

Duration

1 -2 hours

Exercise

3 – 4 weeks

Price

From £4500

WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE DAY

The team will welcome you to the clinic and get you settled and relaxed. We will go through the procedure and discuss the process and sign the consent form. Photographs will be taken before heading to theatre.

Mr West will mark the areas to be treated to ensure the correct placement. Local anaesthetic is injected into the fat donor site which stings for a few seconds. Through small incisions fat will be removed via a small cannula. This fat is then transferred to the areas of the face requiring additional volume. It is injected through very small incisions in multiple thin lines. Skin is usually closed with a small dissolvable suture, and small steristrips (thin plasters) are applied over the scars.

Following surgery you will be transferred to the recovery area and will be looked after by our dedicated recovery team. We will ensure all aftercare is explained and follow up appointments are arranged before letting you leave.

Frequently asked questions

Will all the fat injected stay?

There is some initial swelling that will resolve over the first week. The fat that is injected needs to develop a blood supply to survive and typically 50 – 70% of the injected fat will survive. This fat is then permanent and will behave like other fat in your face. Any significant changes in weight will have an effect, and as you age the fat will naturally reduce in volume.

Is one treatment enough?

Not all the fat injected will remain, therefore it is often necessary to have more than one initial treatment. As we naturally age and lose further volume it may be necessary to have top ups.

What are the follow up or aftercare procedures?

Wounds are check usually 7 – 10 days after surgery. A further review appointment is made for 4 – 6 weeks after surgery.

When can I start playing sports again?

Light activity is ok after 1 week. Vigorous exercise should be avoided for at least 2 weeks.

Can fat grafting be used to treat asymmetry?

Yes. Fat grafting can be a really effective treatment for facial asymmetry.

Can fat grafting rejuvenate tissue?

There has been lots of research into the regenerative properties of fat – Mr West was awarded a PhD for his research in to this subject. Certainly, there is good clinical data that shows that fat grafting can help regenerate tissues, and can help soften areas of tight scar tissue.

Related Treatments

Breast augmentation

Breast augmentation uses implants to enhance breast size and shape, boosting body image and self-esteem. It’s tailored to individual needs, with various implant options discussed during consultation to achieve desired results.

Mastopexy

Breast lift (mastopexy) is a surgical procedure that reshapes and lifts sagging breasts by tightening skin and repositioning the nipple. It does not increase volume but can create a fuller appearance; implants or fat grafting can be added for more volume.

Breast lift with implants

Breast reduction

Breast reduction surgery relieves physical discomfort and boosts confidence by reducing breast size, reshaping the breast, and lifting the nipple. It improves quality of life and has one of the highest satisfaction rates among plastic surgery procedures.

Related Conditions

Volume loss / hollow cheeks / hollow temples

Aging face / saggy face / tired face

Eye bags / dark circles / tired eyes

Facial lines / creases / wrinkles

Jowls

Client Results

Testimonials

“After years of being self conscious about my eyes, i decided to have my upper blepharoplasty with Chris and the results are better than I had ever anticipated. The service I received before during and after the operation is unmatched. Dr west is a patient, calming and a highly skilled surgeon. If you’re thinking of going for it. Do it, you won’t regret it! Thank you again.”

“I recently had upper eyelid surgery ( blepharoplasty ) with Mr Christopher West. Very experienced surgeon so I felt straight away I’m in a good hands. I had barely any bruising or swelling and the scars are so neat. Overall the results exceeded my expectations which I’m extremely grateful for! 10/10 highly recommended! Thank you.”

“I found Dr Christopher West from 3 people's recommendation and came all the way from London. The upper blepharoplasty procedure was completely painless. I had a small amount of post op bruising, but could carry on with life almost immediately after. The recovery time was around one week. Once my sutures were removed the result was immediately evident. I am extremely pleased with the results of my upper blepharoplasty, and cannot hesitate to praise the skills of Dr Christopher West. Fantastic results. I highly recommend Mr Christopher West”

“I had been researching my options for surgery for a couple of years, I'd had lots of consultations with London based surgeons, I opted for Mr West as not only had I seen his work first hand on a few friends, I liked his approach to surgery, he is very honest and if he feels you don't need something or wouldn't benefit from it he will tell you straight, he's very good at managing your expectations. After a couple of consultations I booked in with him, for an upper blepharoplasty. Mr West saw me before surgery to go over everything, he has a very calming and kind nature which definitely helps before you are about to go under the knife, I am very happy with my results, Chris is very skilled surgeon, his stitches and incisions are immaculate, and I highly recommend him to anyone who is considering surgery.”