How to Have a Better Recovery from Fat Transfer Surgery

Excess fats in the buttocks, thighs, and abdomen can be useful in restoring volume or smoothing wrinkles in other parts of your body. Transferring them to another body part is a procedure known as ‘fat transfer’, and it is a surgical technique that uses liposuction to get the fat out. Fat transfer surgery is an outpatient procedure conducted under local anaesthesia. Small incisions are created for fat removal and liposuction, and the fat is then re-injected into the graft area. Fat transfer surgery comes with a considerable amount of recovery period, and there are certain things you must remember and do to ensure a better recovery. Here are some of them:

• Choose the right surgeon – Fat cells will survive longer in their new area if only the smallest amounts are injected gradually at a time. A good cosmetic surgeon knows this, so he may ask you to return for multiple sessions to ensure the best results. Be sure to ask questions about proper post-surgical care, especially concerning the drains (if any have been placed), the typical symptoms, and signs of any potential complications.
• Follow the surgeon’s advice – Your cosmetic surgeon will prescribe antibiotics to help prevent infections. You may be given mild painkillers to address any discomfort, too.

• Avoid exercising and strenuous activities – Chill for two weeks to avoid bursting the stitches and straining your wounds. You can resume work after a couple of days. The surgeon will remove your stitches after five to seven days.

• Wear the right support garments – If you have had fat transferred to your breasts, you may have to wear a sports bra daily for two to three weeks. You should avoid sleeping on your stomach for four to five weeks, too. A compression garment must be worn for up to six weeks if you have had fat transfer to your butt, and you should refrain from driving and doing strenuous tasks for a week.