What causes lumps and bumps to develop over time and how does the fat graft age?

Question

Fat Transfer (long term, what to expect):Hello, I am currently considering facial fat transfer and have already meet with a handful of surgeons who are skilled and experienced. However, as I do more research on people's personal experience with fat grafts I'm noticing some develop lumps & bumps over time. What causes that? Also how does a fat graft age? I am very active (HITT workouts and weight training daily) and I am concerned about how a fat graft will age for my active body type. I appreciate any insight! Thank you!

Edwin F. Williams, III, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. When fat grafting is performed by an experienced surgeon, it is rare to get lumps or bumps. I usually tell my patients that the fat usually will stay around for a few years, losing about 10% or so every year. Every patient is different, however, and the fat may stick around for a shorter or longer amount of time. Best of luck!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Swelling can persist for months, so it's important to be on the right after-care protocols. In addition to compression, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and radiofrequency treatments, lymphatic massage is highly effective in the prevention of fluid buildup, scar tissue, inflammation, and infections. Lymphatic massage also decreases the chance of irregularities, lumps or bumps; accelerates healing and minimizes downtime; and, following a liposculpture procedure, can help further contour the abdominals.

I recommend that my patients receive lymphatic massage treatments every day for a week following their procedure; twice per week for the following month; and then once per week until healing is complete.

I recommend following up with an expert about best after-care practices. Best, Dr. Emer.

Robert T. Buchanan, MD (retired) · Answer

Since you have already met "with a handful of surgeons who are skilled and experienced," pick the one who you liked the best and has excellent results and discuss your concerns with him/her. Stop researching other places as a huge number of these people probably have had the procedure by physicians who are neither skilled or experienced. Once past 4 months post procedure the grafted fat reacts just like any normal fat you have.

What causes lumps and bumps to develop over time and how does the fat graft age?

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What causes lumps and bumps to develop over time and how does the fat graft age?

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Everything you need to know about Facial Fat Transfer

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