Fat transfer: natural volume using your own fat

Liposculpture reshapes the body by removing localised fat. Fat transfer goes one step further: as well as removing fat where there is excess, it reuses it to add volume elsewhere, such as the buttocks or breasts.

It is the name given to buttock fat transfer: fat is removed from the abdomen, flanks or back and grafted into the buttocks to increase volume and improve shape and projection.

It is normal for some of the grafted fat to be reabsorbed in the first few months. The percentage varies with the area, the technique and aftercare, which is why the final result is assessed from 3–6 months.

Yes. The fat that integrates into the recipient area stays, although, like the rest of your body fat, it can change with significant weight gain or loss.

Yes. It allows a moderate, natural breast enlargement or correction of asymmetries without implants. For a larger increase, it can be combined with implants or a breast augmentation with implants may be considered.

The volume that can be grafted depends on the fat available. If it is limited, your surgeon will explain what result is realistic or suggest alternatives such as implants.

Most patients return to normal activities within one to two weeks. After a buttock fat transfer you must avoid sitting directly on the buttocks for the period your surgeon advises.

As with any surgery, complications can occur: bruising, swelling, seromas, irregularities, more reabsorption than expected or, less commonly, fat necrosis or cysts. Your surgeon will explain the risks at your consultation and how to minimise them.