Is it necessary to use PRP with fat transfer for a more successful retention rate?

Question

It has been said the most successful fat transfers use PRP to help the fat stick to blood supply. However I've had consults with renowned fat grafting doctors who don't use PRP. How necessary is it? Thank you.

Tim Neavin, MD · Answer

Good question.  There is not a tremendous amount of evidence showing that platelet rich plasma improves fat transfer survival.  However, anecdotally some surgeons report that they believe there is an improvement with fat retention using platelet rich plasma.  Therefore, it is not necessary to use platelet rich plasma for fat transfer but some surgeons such as myself do use it because there is no harm in doing it and it can likely improve results.

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

There is reasonably good evidence that adding PRP to facial fat grafting helps retention rate due to the growth factors in the PRP. That doesn't mean it is always necessary, especially for lower volumes. It is a difficult thing to measure because there are so many different systems for preparing PRP and the harvest and preparation of the fat. It does add some expense.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Harvesting is important to fat transfer. I use water-assisted fat harvesting which gives pure fat to transfer and combine with platelet rich plasma (PRP) to get the most viable and sustainable fat cells. This can be combined with Sculptra and/or implants to get desired results, if necessary. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a facial sculpting expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear heydoctors,
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

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

And I have some land to see in the Everglades. LOL. It really does not add to the results only adds to the $$$ the MD charges. Be careful out there.

Is it necessary to use PRP with fat transfer for a more successful retention rate?

Answers (8)

Answer: Fat viability

Answer: Fat viability

Answer: Is it necessary to use PRP with fat transfer for a more successful retention rate?

Answer: Is it necessary to use PRP with fat transfer for a more successful retention rate?

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Everything you need to know about Facial Fat Transfer

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Is it necessary to use PRP with fat transfer for a more successful retention rate?

Answers (8)

Answer: Fat viability

Answer: Fat viability

Answer: Is it necessary to use PRP with fat transfer for a more successful retention rate?

Answer: Is it necessary to use PRP with fat transfer for a more successful retention rate?

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Recommended reading

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.