Can RF treatment kill fat graft when received earlier than 1 month post-op?

Question

5 months ago I had a thigh lipo and brazilian butt lift. But then my hospital without checking my surgery date offered me a Radiofrequency treatment. Afterwards, I found out that rf treatment can kill fat graft when received earlier than 1 month post-op. I am worried and stressed out that the rf treatment received on my thighs and stomach area near the bbl surgery site would have affected fat survival rate. And comparing my surgery photos month by month I feel like fat is sliding downwards.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Awesome788181,

I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.
It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.

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

Agustina Hilario Duran, MD · Answer

Hi! Thanks for your question. It's understandable to be worried, but since the radiofrequency (RF) treatment was applied 5 months after your BBL, it’s less likely to affect fat survival significantly. RF is more concerning in the first few weeks post-op, but after 5 months, the fat cells have typically stabilized. If you're noticing changes, like fat appearing to slide downward, it could be due to normal fat redistribution, gravity, or skin laxity. Still, it's important to consult your surgeon to evaluate your case and discuss any concerns about the results.

Manuel Diaz, MD · Answer

Hello! thanks for the question. If this treatment is  correctly applied RF/cavitation, focusing on the dermis and hypodermis, will not affect the BBL in the slightest and will help tighten/lift the skin and reduce cellulite in the buttock area. Basically what could affect is the misuse of the equipment on the skin. Also keep in mind that after a BBL, some of the transferred fat is lost. so if you notice a small change it is possibly due to this and not RF. Visit your surgeon for recommendations. Good luck!

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Radio, frequency treatments can reduce subcutaneous fat, whether the fat has been grafted or is native.
Often radio frequency treatments have no impact on fat, but the treatment can create fat loss.
It’s also common for a substantial amount of grafted fat to dissipate after the grafting procedure.
I suggest you follow up with your provider.There is no yes or no answer to your question.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD

Can RF treatment kill fat graft when received earlier than 1 month post-op?

Answers (4)