Fat transfer survival - what type of things cause fat cell death?

Dear BGtea44,

I instruct my patients not to sit for 2 solid weeks. We provide them a specialized pillow that our patients can sit on during that time. They can sleep on their stomachs or sides.
Fat viability depends a lot of surgeon technique. The fat has to be placed back into the buttocks as soon as possible so that it has a greater chance of survival. It has to be placed carefully so that not too much fat is placed in only one area.


Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

In our experience around 50-60% of fat transferred for buttock/hip augmentation would survive. However, that is not entirely predictable and small difference in graft take from one area to other may be seen. Extensive pressure for prolonged time, fall, localized injuries may further alter fat survival in affected areas. Hope this helps.

After a second BBL, it's important to protect the newly transferred fat—especially in the first 2–3 weeks, which is the most critical period for fat survival.
* Excessive bending, pressure, or bumping into objects can reduce fat survival, especially on the hips and buttocks where grafted fat is still establishing blood supply.
* Sexual activity that puts pressure on the buttocks or hips can also be risky early on.
To protect your results, Avoid direct pressure on grafted areas for at least 3 weeks, Sleep on your stomach or sides, Delay intercourse involving hip or glute pressure for 2–3 weeks, or until your surgeon clears you.
Gentle movement is okay, but anything that causes pressure, friction, or trauma should be minimized during early healing.
Erman AK, MD. Plastic Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgeon.