Body Contouring

Sandpoint, Hayden, Coeur d'Alene and North Idaho

Fat Transfer

Autologous fat transfer involves removing fat from one part of your own body and implanting it elsewhere to improve contour that has changed due to surgery, disease, weight fluctuations, or the aging process. Often, the fat is harvested during liposuction. Since we are using your own tissue, there is no risk of rejection or allergic reaction.

The many uses for autologous fat transfers include:

In order for the fat to survive in its new location, a blood supply must be re-established. This is called revascularization. Some procedures may require more than one session in order to achieve the full effect. Fat cells which do not survive are harmlessly absorbed by the body or may form an area of scar tissue.

The idea of removing unwanted fat from one part of your body and putting it where you want it is one of the most exciting concepts in cosmetic surgery. This is an area which is being improved at a rapid pace as more research continues to be done. Fat transfer is not appropriate for every area of the body. The fat cells have a better chance of survival in certain parts of the body.

Buttock Augmentation

Buttock sculpting procedures have become very popular. Buttock enhancement can be achieved with implants, but fat transplants have more controllable and pleasing results, and carry a lower risk of infection and implant extrusion.

Fat is injected into the upper quadrants of your buttocks, giving them a fuller and more youthful appearance. The effect is even more dramatic when the fat is harvested from the thighs, stomach, and back through liposuction, as this can accentuate the overall look of the lift. To achieve the appearance that you desire, it may be necessary to have multiple separate procedures as not all of the fat survives the transplant process.

Although it is possible to use this method to fill or enlarge the breasts, it is not currently recommended for most breast surgery patients because the fat cells which die off can leave behind small amounts of scar tissue that can be difficult to identify on mammogram, and the long-term effect of fat injections into the breast tissue have yet to be studied extensively.

Other areas for fat transfer

Fat transfer for lip or cheek augmentation and facial reshaping are very safe and effective procedures which provide long-term results. Please see the lip augmentation and facial reshaping pages for more information.

Dr. Michelle Spring provides surgical expertise and exceptional patient care in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery in Sandpoint, Ponderay, and all of Northern Idaho. With extensive training in breast surgery, body contouring, and facial surgery, she offers cosmetic procedures with an emphasis on natural results, safety and personal attention to your individual goals. If you are considering cosmetic surgery, learn more by viewing our Plastic Surgery Photo Gallery or FAQ's page, and contact Dr. Spring today to schedule your fat transfer consultation.

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