I want to treat overly-aggressive thigh lipo with a fat transfer. Is this just as risky as getting a BBL? (photo)

Question

I had lipo on my thighs but have this area where it was clearly done too aggressively. Was wondering about getting it fixed with fat transfer. But been reading about fat transfer and it being possibly dangerous with BBL. some mortality cases, etc. this scared me a bit off of the fat transfer idea. So was wondering if those warnings are BBL specific or if it also applies to thigh area. Picture attached. Thanks in andvance.

Dana Goldberg, MD · Answer

Fat transfer to the buttocks has a higher risk than fat transfer to other locations because there are large veins near where the fat is often transferred. This can increase the risk of fat getting into and blocking the blood vessels. The blood vessels in the thigh are much deeper than where the fat is injected, and there are smaller amounts injected as well, which decreases risk.

Sabrina Fabi, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question and photos. Fat transfer to the thighs would not be as risky as a BBL and even a BBL is relatively safe when performed by an experienced, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist. To achieve the results you want with fat transfer, you must have sufficient fat in another area of the body to serve as the donor site. Another option is Sculptra injections into the thigh, which could also enhance that upper leg contour. Your doctor should be able to customize your treatment plan to your needs based on your specific situation and desired results.

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

Fat grafting to the thigh is very safe.  However, fat does not have much integrity and if what you have is a depressed scarred area, it is unlikely fat will correct the contour.  The overlying skin has to be able to stretch to allow the fat to expand the area.  Fat is the only option though, and so massage of this area to get it ready for grafting is recommended.

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

Amaruki I appreciate your concern however fat transfer is a common procedure used to treat areas in which liposuction caused contour irregularities. BBL is a much more extensive procedure and carries higher risks. Discuss all options with a board-certified plastic surgeon to your area.  Good luck.

Kamran Khoobehi, MD · Answer

The problem with the BBL is that some surgeon place too much fat (1000cc +). The procedure in your case is very safe since you may need 100 cc of fat at most.

I want to treat overly-aggressive thigh lipo with a fat transfer. Is this just as risky as getting a BBL? (photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Liposuction Revision With Fat Transfer

Answer: Liposuction Revision With Fat Transfer

Answer: Very safe

Answer: Very safe

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Everything you need to know about Liposuction

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

I want to treat overly-aggressive thigh lipo with a fat transfer. Is this just as risky as getting a BBL? (photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Liposuction Revision With Fat Transfer

Answer: Liposuction Revision With Fat Transfer

Answer: Very safe

Answer: Very safe

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Liposuction

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