# Fat Transfer (Autologous Fat Grafting)

> **Fat transfer** or fat grafting is a surgical procedure where both small and large volume defects can be corrected by transferring existing fat into the problem area.

- Canonical page: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure/fat-transfer
- Category: [Body Contouring](https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure-category/body-contouring)
- Procedure directory: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedures.md
- Medical disclaimer: https://doctormaresky.co.za/medical-disclaimer


## Overview

**Fat transfer** or fat grafting is a surgical procedure where both small and large volume defects can be corrected by transferring existing fat into the problem area. This procedure is one of the oldest plastic surgery techniques around and is still widely used today.

## The procedure

Autologous fats can be transferred from the back, flank, hips, thighs and tummy area. This fat is then prepared and placed in other areas of the body. The surgeon will use one of four liposuction techniques to ensure the grafting of viable fat cells.

## Preparation

- **Timeline:** **1-2 weeks** before procedure

### Medical tests

- **Blood work** if indicated
- Medical clearance if you have chronic conditions

### Medications

#### Medications to discuss stopping

- **Stop** aspirin and blood thinners **1 week** prior (with doctor approval)
- **Stop** NSAIDs (ibuprofen) **48 hours** prior
- **Stop** herbal supplements **1 week** prior

#### Medications to continue

- **Continue** essential medications as advised by **Dr Maresky**

### Lifestyle

- **Smoking:** **Avoid** smoking for at least **2 weeks** before procedure to promote healing

- **Alcohol:** **Avoid** alcohol **24 hours** before procedure

- **Fasting:** Light meal **2-3 hours** before procedure; avoid heavy meals

### Arrangements

- **Arrange** transportation home after procedure
- **Wear** comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
- **Arrange** for help at home for first **24 hours** if needed

## Recovery and aftercare

Fat transfer recovery time usually ranges from **one to three weeks**, with facial fat transfers taking up to **four weeks** for the swelling to completely reduce. During the first few weeks of recovery, patients will experience a large amount of swelling, which is completely normal.

## Expected results

Fat transfers are ideal for women who would like a full bust or buttocks without implants. The fat can also be placed in the face, making it an alternative to other treatments by filling fine lines and wrinkles.

## Liposuction techniques

- **Traditional Liposuction – assisted liposuction (SAL)**
- **Ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL)**
- **Laser-assisted liposuction (LAL)**
- **Mechanically-assisted liposuction**

## Frequently asked questions

### Who is a good candidate for fat transfer?

Anyone of legal age is a good candidate for this procedure, however, patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding or have a neurological disease are not advised to undergo a fat transfer.

### How long do fat transfer results last?

Fat transfer procedures have minimal scarring as the fat is injected into the new location leaving very little site scarring. Some patients can experience harvest site swelling that can last up to several weeks.

### What are the normal side effects?

Normal side effects include facial asymmetry, thin looking lips, difficulty smiling, swelling occurring longer than two days, and fluctuating inflammation and swelling.

### How long do fat transfer results last?

Fat that successfully integrates (typically **50-70%** of transferred fat) can last indefinitely as living tissue. Results are visible after initial swelling subsides (**2-4 weeks**), with final results apparent at **3-6 months**. Some patients may need touch-up procedures.

### What areas can be treated with fat transfer?

Fat transfer can enhance face (cheeks, under eyes, lips), breasts (augmentation or reconstruction), buttocks (Brazilian Butt Lift), hands, and correct contour irregularities. **Dr Maresky** will determine if you have adequate donor fat for your goals.

### Where is the donor fat taken from?

Fat is typically harvested from areas with excess like abdomen, thighs, flanks, or buttocks using gentle liposuction. This provides the dual benefit of contouring the donor area while enhancing the treatment area.

### What is the recovery time for fat transfer?

Recovery varies by treatment area. Facial fat transfer has **1-2 weeks** downtime with swelling/bruising. Body procedures may require **2-4 weeks** before returning to normal activities. **Dr Maresky** provides detailed recovery protocols for each area.

### Is fat transfer safe and natural?

Yes, fat transfer uses your own tissue, eliminating allergy or rejection risks. It's a natural, biocompatible option for volume enhancement. The procedure has been safely performed for decades with excellent safety profiles when done by experienced surgeons like **Dr Maresky**.

## Indicative pricing

- Estimate: R40,000 to R95,000 ZAR
- Cost factor: Donor and recipient sites
- Cost factor: Volume of fat transferred
- Detailed cost page: https://doctormaresky.co.za/cost/fat-transfer
- Final pricing is confirmed after an individual consultation.

## Consultation and contact

- Consultation: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure/general-consultation
- Contact: https://doctormaresky.co.za/contact