Does age affect whether fat cells survive? I'm 46 yrs old and was told that because of my age BBL would not be recommended.

Question

Because fat cells don't survive in an older person. That was the first time I heard that, although it sort of makes sense I guess. I've heard of the 30-50% chance of surviving fat cells in an ordinary surgery due to other contributing factors. Please let me know if it would be wasteful for me to pay for something that is scientifically known not to last. Thank you

Thomas S. Taylor, FACS · Answer

I believe your overall health, lack of medical issues and the techniques used by the surgeon to perform the fat transfer are the most important determinant in fat survival.  If there is a difference as one ages it is probably a small difference compared to the influence of the factors I mentioned above.  I hope this helps.Thomas Taylor, MD, FACS

William Bruno, MD · Answer

More important than age is the technique used during a fat transfer procedure. Depending on technique the amount of fat cells that permanently survive can vary between 50-70%. You should certainly discuss this surgery with your primary care physician to seek medical clearance before having any surgery. Consult with a few plastic surgeons in person to review your goals. Almost all patients can an improvement in their shape with this procedure.Best wishes,Dr.Bruno

Matthew J. Nykiel, MD · Answer

Hello and Great Question.  I appreciate the time you are spending researching this procedure.  My name is Dr. Matthew J. Nykiel.  I am a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, a Fellowship Trained Cosmetic Surgeon, and a Butt Augmentation Specialist.
In my opinion, the answer is Yes.  I do notice that as individuals are older the fat transfer is not as good as someone who is younger.  I typically start to have that conversation with patients around the age of 50 years old, some earlier and some later it depends on their goals and the quality of tissue for us to use.  I am not to saying that I will not perform fat transfer on older patients; I absolutely will; it is just a realistic discussion I have with patients so we both have realistic goals.  I think when you take a step back and think about it, it makes complete sense.  We know for a fact that a portion of the fat transferred does not stay, it is pretty logical to think that the 20 year old is going to have a better "take" ratio then say a 50 or 60 or even 70 year old.  
Again that is not to say that you are to old; I absolutely do not think you are too old and I agree with all the other doctors answers that you can still have a great result.  However, I also notice none of the answers provided answered your question:  does age affect fat transfer take rates?  In my opinion, yes it does.  As long as you know that and are aware of it, I think you are absolutely fine to have a fat transfer provided you and your surgeon discuss your goals and determine if your goals are potentially achievable.  
I hope that helps!  Best of Luck!
Matthew J. Nykiel, MD#TopREALSELFDoctor#CoreREALSELFDoctorButt Augmentation SpecialistLiposuction SpecialistBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

There is not really an upper limit on age.  Many of my patients are over 50; one was 72. Age will not prevent you from having a tremendous result.  Overall medical health and suitability of the procedure for the patient is more important than age.  The BBL does not stop the aging process.  About 50% of the fat that is transferred lives and becomes a part of you.  This will hold stable as long as there is no weight fluctuation.Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear youngranny,if you don't have other diseases and medical conditions, 46 is definitely not too old for a BBL. An examination would be required be sure you are a good match for a BBL. I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon.Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery 
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Does age affect whether fat cells survive? I'm 46 yrs old and was told that because of my age BBL would not be recommended.

Answers (8)

Answer: Does age affect fat cells survival

Answer: Does age affect fat cells survival

Answer: 46 too old for a BBL?

Answer: 46 too old for a BBL?

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Brazilian Butt Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Does age affect whether fat cells survive? I'm 46 yrs old and was told that because of my age BBL would not be recommended.

Answers (8)

Answer: Does age affect fat cells survival

Answer: Does age affect fat cells survival

Answer: 46 too old for a BBL?

Answer: 46 too old for a BBL?

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Brazilian Butt Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.