Fat in bloodstream - how often does this kind of complication happen with BBL/fat transfer?

Question

Ok..so I've just read about the mother of 2 who died from fat deposits in her bloodstream following a bbl + lipo, performed at Vanity in Miami. I'm extremely nervous now because the doctor who performed her surgery is who I'm scheduled with. How often does this kind of complication happen with bbl/fat transfer?

Ricardo L. Rodriguez, MD · Answer

Fat in the Bloodstream as a result of BBL is an under-reported condition, but more and more cases are coming to light as the procedure gains in popularity. It has not happened to me in over 400 cases in 10 years, and I think it is technique related.There is an extensive network of vessels between the  gluteus muscles and this is probably where the fat gets injected into the bloodstream. To prevent risk of injection:Harvest small fragments of fat, as larger fragments can clog larger blood vessels.Avoid injecting under pressureInject slowly as you are withdrawing the canulaInject only small amounts (less than1cc in any given spot) of fat at a time. This is time consuming but guarantees that even if you inject into a vessel the amount will be too small to cause harm.Do not inject into the muscleTalk to your surgeon about his technique. In my opinion, it is very difficult to do a BBL in less than 5-6 hours unless you are harvesting large fragments, or injecting larger amounts at a time.*Updated to include a more recent web reference!

Sean Kelishadi, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  There is a risk of fat embolism 
with BBL, but there are several strategies to help minimize this risk:1) Go to a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with expertise in advanced body contouring techniques2) Knowing your anatomy and not injecting near the gluteal veins3)
 Using large bore blunt cannulas to decrease your chances of 
inadvertently cannulating vessels that can embolize (also helps decrease
 trauma to the fat and thus allow for better fat survival percentages)4) Not injecting a large bolus in one area and continuously moving the cannula5) Using top of the line equipment6)
 Operating at a hospital where board certified anesthesiologists are 
giving you anesthesia and emergency personnel are available should an 
untoward event occurThe above list is not all inclusive but is a good start.  I hope this helps and good luck!Sincerely,Dr. Sean Kelishadi

Fat in bloodstream - how often does this kind of complication happen with BBL/fat transfer?

Answers (2)

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