Fat transfer surgery, also known as fat grafting or lipofilling, is a body contouring procedure that involves harvesting fat from one area of the body and injecting it into another area to restore volume and enhance shape. Common donor areas include the abdomen, thighs, and flanks, while recipient sites may include the face, breasts, hands, or buttocks. The appeal of this technique lies in its dual benefit: reducing unwanted fat where it's not needed and enhancing features where volume is desired. However, the most intriguing aspect of this procedure is what happens to the fat after it is transferred.

The Harvesting Phase: Collecting Viable Fat Cells

The first phase of Fat Transfer surgery in Dubai (جراحة نقل الدهون في دبي) begins with liposuction. During this process, a specialized cannula is used to gently suction fat cells from targeted areas. The method used is often designed to preserve the integrity of fat cells, as only healthy, undamaged fat can be effectively used for transfer. These harvested fat cells are then collected into a sterile container, preparing them for the next critical step. The quality of the harvested fat is crucial—it directly influences how much of the fat will survive after being injected into the new location.

Processing the Fat: Purification and Preparation

Once the fat is harvested, it undergoes a purification process. This step is essential to remove any blood, oils, fluids, and damaged cells that could hinder the success of the graft. The purification may involve decanting, filtering, or centrifugation. The goal is to isolate the healthiest, most viable fat cells for re-injection. Only this purified fat is suitable for transplantation, as impurities or non-viable cells can be reabsorbed by the body or cause inflammation. The purified fat is then placed into small syringes in preparation for the next stage: injection into the recipient area.

The Transfer Process: Precision Injection

The actual transfer of fat requires precision and expertise. The purified fat is injected into the target area in small amounts using fine cannulas. These small deposits are strategically placed in different layers of tissue to promote vascularization—ensuring that the newly transferred fat receives an adequate blood supply. This meticulous technique improves the chances of fat survival. Rather than injecting large amounts all at once, the fat is layered in small tunnels to allow better integration with surrounding tissues. The injected fat must quickly establish a blood supply from the surrounding tissue to survive.

What Happens to the Transferred Fat?

Not all the fat that is transferred survives. Typically, the body will absorb a portion of the injected fat—anywhere from 20% to 50%—in the weeks following the procedure. The fat that survives this critical period will establish a permanent presence in the treated area. During this time, the body works to supply the transplanted fat with nutrients and oxygen through new capillary growth. The success of this vascularization process determines how much of the fat will survive. The surviving fat cells then function like any other fat cells in the body: they will shrink or swell with weight fluctuations but remain part of the recipient area long-term.

Longevity and Final Results:

The results of fat transfer surgery become apparent gradually. Initial swelling may make the area look fuller than the final outcome. Over time, as the body absorbs the non-viable fat and swelling subsides, the final volume becomes more noticeable—usually within three to six months. The fat that remains is considered permanent. However, since these are living fat cells, their longevity depends on the individual’s lifestyle. Significant weight changes, hormonal fluctuations, or aging can influence the appearance of the treated area over time. Some patients may require multiple sessions to achieve or maintain the desired results, depending on the volume needed and how much fat survives.

The Biological Nature of Fat Transfer:

One of the most fascinating aspects of fat transfer is its use of the body's own tissues. Because the fat comes from the patient, there's no risk of allergic reaction or rejection, making it a natural and biocompatible solution for volume restoration. The procedure also benefits from the presence of stem cells in adipose tissue, which may enhance skin quality and promote tissue regeneration in the treated areas. These regenerative properties contribute to the procedure’s popularity in both aesthetic and reconstructive surgeries. Understanding how the body treats this transferred fat—nurturing it, integrating it, or in some cases reabsorbing it—helps set realistic expectations and underscores the importance of post-operative care.

Conclusion:

Fat Transfer surgery in Dubai (جراحة نقل الدهون) is a remarkable fusion of body contouring and natural tissue enhancement. From the careful harvesting and purification of fat to the strategic injection and integration process, every step plays a critical role in determining how much fat survives and how long the results last. While some fat inevitably gets reabsorbed, the remaining cells become a permanent part of the recipient area, adapting to the body’s natural processes. With a solid understanding of what happens to the fat, individuals considering this procedure can make informed decisions and optimize their outcomes.