Fat Grafting vs. Liposuction

Body contouring surgery is increasing in popularity. Liposuction and fat grafting can be used to reshape the body and restore confidence. Many women desire an hourglass appearance and are searching for the right procedure. Which one is right for you?

Dr. Austin Hayes is a board-certified plastic surgeon with offices in Portland, Seattle, and Hood River. Continue reading to learn more about the differences between the two procedures.

What is fat grafting?
Fat grafting takes fat from one area of the body and places it in areas that would benefit from more shape and fullness. Liposuction is used to remove fat from unwanted areas. This commonly includes the bra roll, flanks, waistline, hips, and thighs. Fine cannulas are used to transfer the fat to the desired areas. This could include the hollows of the face, cheeks, brow, temples, nasolabial folds, breasts or buttocks. Fat grafting to the buttocks is commonly referred to as a Brazilian butt lift.

What parts of the body are best for fat grafting?
Fat grafting can be performed to many areas of the body. The most common areas include the face, breasts, or buttocks. Combination procedures can be performed, such as facelift with fat grafting or comprehensive liposuction with transferring fat to the breasts or buttocks.

What is liposuction?
Liposuction removes fat from the body. Liposuction works best for contouring the body to help re-create ideal proportions. Many women desire an hourglass shape and liposuction can work really well for this goal. It's important to understand that liposuction doesn't work well for weight loss. It works best in people who have reached their goal weight, but have some areas of stubborn diet-resistant fat. 

Can you have both liposuction and fat grafting performed during the same operation?
Yes, it's common to have comprehensive body contouring with both liposuction and fat transfer. This can be performed at the same operation. The most common combinations include facelift with fat grafting, micro fat grafting to the buttocks, and fat grafting to the breasts. Fat grafting to the buttocks is called a Brazilian butt lift (BBL) and works very well to give an hourglass figure. By removing fat from the waist and hips, a BBL procedure shapes and plumps the buttocks. 

How do I know if I'm a good candidate for liposuction or fat grafting?
Austin Hayes, M.D. is a board-certified plastic surgeon. A consultation with Dr. Hayes is an excellent opportunity to learn how best to achieve your goals. Dr. Hayes takes a full hour for each new consultation, so that he can fully explain the differences between different cosmetic plastic surgery procedures and help you decide which procedures are best for you.

To schedule a consultation please visit our contact page or call our office at 503-297-9340.