Fat injection is a modern procedure that offers both aesthetic and biological benefits in body contouring. In this method, fat cells harvested from the patient’s own body are repurposed as a natural filler. In addition to correcting volume deficiencies beneath the skin, the procedure also supports tissue vitality. The stem cells contained within the fat cells can have a rejuvenating effect on the treated area. In this respect, the procedure not only provides visible improvement but also contributes to enhanced skin quality. Fat injection can be applied to areas such as the face, buttocks, and breasts, making it an ideal solution for those who prefer natural methods over synthetic materials.
Fat injection is an aesthetic procedure performed by injecting fat tissues taken from the person’s own body into areas of volume loss. The method, also known as “lipofilling” or “fat transfer”, is preferred both to provide natural fullness and to support tissue regeneration. It is applied to improve the aesthetic appearance and achieve symmetrical proportions, especially in areas such as the face, buttocks and breasts.
Fat cells are usually taken from areas such as the abdomen, hips or thighs. It is transferred after purification with special processes. If the injected fat cells remain alive, permanence can be maintained in the long term. The fat injection method is a safe alternative for people who are sensitive to fillers.
MayClinik, which offers international health services in the field of aesthetic surgery, aims to achieve natural, harmonious and aesthetic results by making personalized plans in fat injection applications. The procedure, which provides shaping with your own tissue, progresses in full harmony with your body.
The fat injection procedure consists of three main stages: harvesting, purification, and transfer. In the first stage, fat is collected from fat-rich areas of the body—usually the abdomen, waist, or thighs—using the liposuction technique. Special low-pressure cannulas are used during the procedure to prevent damage to the fat.
In the second stage, the obtained fat is purified through methods such as centrifugation or filtration. Only viable and usable fat cells are separated during the purification process. Once the tissue is prepared to an appropriate consistency for injection, it is carefully applied to the target area.
Fat transfer is performed with fine cannulas, creating a natural appearance in the area where volume is desired. The procedure is carried out under local anesthesia or sedation to ensure patient comfort. The duration of the procedure may vary depending on the number of areas to be treated. The results become more apparent over time and provide a natural appearance in harmony with the surrounding tissues.
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Fat injection is a preferred method for aesthetic and restorative purposes. Fat injection can be performed to correct volume loss, aging, weight changes or deformities due to genetic factors. In particular, depressions in the face area, loss of prominence in the cheekbones can make the person look more tired or older. Fat injection offers a natural and permanent solution to correct this appearance.
It can also be applied to provide fullness in areas such as breasts and buttocks or to clarify contour lines. It is more preferred than synthetic filling alternatives thanks to its natural tissue support and compatibility with the body. Fat injected under the skin can increase skin quality by supporting collagen production in the area where it is located. Versatile effects such as volumizing and revitalizing the overall appearance of the skin make fat injection special in the aesthetic world.
Fat injection is a suitable option for individuals who experience volume loss in certain parts of their body and are aesthetically uncomfortable with this situation. Especially people who have loss of clarity in their facial features and who want fullness in areas such as cheekbones often resort to this method. It is also an application that can be preferred for those who have symmetry disorders in the breast, slight volume deficiencies or those who aim for a more balanced appearance.
In order to have fat injection, it is necessary to have a sufficient amount of fat tissue in the body. Fat tissue, usually taken from areas such as the abdomen, waist or thighs, is transferred to the area to be aesthetically improved. Since extremely thin individuals may not have enough fat, alternative methods should be considered. Pregnancy, breastfeeding or active infection are not suitable times for fat injection.
The cost of a fat injection procedure can vary depending on many factors. The size of the treatment area, whether the injection is planned as a single session or multiple sessions, and the techniques used all play a role in determining the cost. Combining fat injection with other aesthetic procedures may also affect the overall price.
Additionally, factors such as the clinic’s facilities, the expertise of the physician, and the city where the procedure is performed directly impact the cost. Since aesthetic treatments are planned individually, a personalized budget is determined for each person. Therefore, it is not possible to mention a fixed price. Consulting a reliable clinic aligned with your health and aesthetic goals is the best way to obtain accurate pricing.
It is perfectly natural for mild bruising and swelling to occur in the treated area after a fat injection. This is part of the body’s adaptation process to the tissue. As the injected fat cells integrate with the surrounding tissues and the healing process begins, these effects gradually diminish. Noticeable swelling and bruising generally decrease significantly within a few days to a week. In some individuals, this may take several weeks. The healing time varies depending on factors such as the treated area, the amount of fat transferred, skin type, and the individual's metabolism. Following the doctor’s post-procedure recommendations, using cold compresses to reduce swelling, and being mindful of resting positions can help minimize these temporary effects more quickly.
Since local or general anesthesia is administered during the fat injection procedure, the patient does not feel any pain. The entire process takes place in a comfortable and controlled clinical setting. The type of anesthesia is determined based on the area from which fat is harvested and the area where it will be injected. After the procedure, mild pain or sensitivity may occur. These discomforts typically subside within a few days and can be managed with simple painkillers. A feeling of tightness or fullness in the treated areas is also normal. Paying attention to rest, especially in the first few days, and allowing the body time to adapt can minimize these sensations. When performed in a clinical environment by an experienced physician, pain levels are minimal. Throughout the process, patient comfort and satisfaction are prioritized. Therefore, the procedure is generally well tolerated and considered a relatively easy recovery experience.
The fat cells transferred during the fat injection are evenly distributed in the targeted area using special techniques. The technique ensures that the fat is injected into the tissue in a controlled and layered manner. This prevents the fat from migrating to other areas or causing unwanted deformities. When performed by experienced professionals, the risk of such issues is very low. While a portion of the injected fat is naturally absorbed by the body, the remaining amount survives in the area and integrates with the tissue. However, excessive physical activity or pressure on the area during the recovery phase can increase the risk of fat cells shifting. Therefore, it is important to follow the post-procedure guidelines carefully. When performed using the correct technique, the fat cells become permanent in the targeted area, and migration to other regions is not expected.
Fat injection is usually performed in a single session. However, since every individual’s body structure and fat retention rate differ, a second session may be necessary in some cases. Approximately 40–60% of the fat cells transferred in the first session become permanent. This ratio varies depending on the individual's metabolism, the treated area, the method of fat preparation, and the physician’s technique. If the desired volume is not achieved or volume loss occurs over time, the procedure can be repeated 6 to 12 months later. A second session may be required especially in areas such as the face and breasts, which change shape with facial expressions or movement. In some individuals, the first session may be sufficient and no further treatment is needed. Following post-procedure recommendations helps improve fat cell retention and increases permanence.
Fat injection is performed through tiny openings in the skin using microcannulas, which are nearly invisible to the eye. Since no large incisions are made during the procedure, prominent scars commonly seen in traditional surgeries do not occur. There are a few millimeter-sized entry points at the fat harvesting and injection sites. These areas usually heal quickly and blend with the skin tone over time, becoming unnoticeable. When performed by experienced surgeons, scars are barely visible. In some individuals, slight redness or discoloration may persist temporarily due to skin type, but this is also a transient condition. Proper post-procedure care and protection from sun exposure reduce the risk of scarring. Therefore, permanent or aesthetically disturbing scars are not expected after fat injection.
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