As we age, we tend to lose volume in various parts of the body. The overlying skin will then creases and sag. Fat injections to these areas can create a more natural and youthful appearance, which may be permanent. Fat can be injected to repair contour deformites, correct defects, rejuvenate hands, augment lips and enhance breasts.


What does the surgery involve?

The surgery is usually done under twilight anaesthesia using the LIPOKIT, an integrated all-in-one closed system machine. Fat is first harvested, by liposuction, from your abdomen, hips or any other area that has excess fat. It is then centrifuged to refine the fat, screened out impurities and to condense it before transferring to the desired area.

This procedure is usually done as day surgery and most patients are able to return to their normal activities after 1-2 days of rest.


Is fat injection permanent?

Previously, survival rate of the fat injected was less than 50%. With the use of the Lipokit, the entire process is accomplished in a closed infection-free environment, thus survivability of the transferred fat cells has been raised to 70%. In order to achieve the right volume and desired outcome, the procedure may need to be repeated once or twice. The transferred fat will stabilize and remain permanent in the area after 6 months.


What are the risks?

Concerns have been raised regarding the potential of calcification of fat injected into the breasts mimicking and hence, delaying the diagnosis of breast cancer. This is unfounded as current mammographic equipment is able to distinguish between this form of calcification and the microcalcification of breast cancer.