Fat Transfer For Scars

Scar Treatments/Fat Transfer For Scars

Fat transfer effectively treats depressed, sunken, or indented scar tissue. It uses the patient’s own fat to treat the scarred area and improve its overall appearance.

What is fat transfer for scars?

Fat transfer for scars, or fat grafting for scars, is an effective, surgical scar treatment. The procedure involves removing fat from one body part and then relocating it to the scarred area. It works in two key ways: firstly, the fatty tissue helps fill out the scarred area, restoring volume and balance. Second, the fat cells also bring regenerative properties to the area, helping it heal.

Why choose fat grafting for scars?

Fat transfer as a scar treatment has historically proven to be very effective, mainly when dealing with sunken or depressed scars, like acne scars. It produces natural-looking results and has only minimal risks. Since the process uses the patient’s own fatty tissue rather than any foreign substances or chemicals, there is zero chance of any allergic or chemical reactions.

Who is an ideal candidate for the treatment?

Fat transfer scar treatment is best suited for patients with sunken, depressed, or volume-depleted scars. It is one of the most valuable options for sunken facial scars caused by acne. Patients should be in good general health before the procedure. It is important to source enough donor fat, usually from areas like the abdomen, thighs, or buttocks, to carry out the procedure successfully.

beautiful woman's face with flower shadows on it

Benefits of fat transfer scar treatment

The advantages of fat grafting for scar revision are:

Natural-looking and long-term results
Fills out depressed/sunken scarred areas
Low risk, due to the nature of the procedure
Supports skin regeneration because of stem cells within fatty tissue
Smooths uneven areas and improves scar appearance
Can provide greater confidence in one’s appearance

Fat transfer for scars treatment at The London Scar Clinic

Consultation

You will meet with one of our scar treatment specialists to discuss the procedure and have the chance to ask questions. They will assess your scars, looking at their depth and nature, and speak with you about your desired outcomes. They will also explain what to expect during the procedure and afterwards, and they may also assess other parts of your body (donor sites) to see which location is best for harvesting fat.

doctor comforting patient by holding her hand

Essential care before the procedure

Before the procedure, patients should cease taking any blood-thinning medicines or supplements. Smokers should also make efforts to temporarily stop smoking for at least two weeks before the procedure. You will also receive additional instructions from our specialists. Attending the procedure with a friend or family member who can help you home afterwards is best.

Fat grafting for scars procedure

On the day of the procedure, you will be given anaesthesia. Your surgeon will then remove some fat from the donor site via liposuction. The fat is then processed to clear out impurities before being injected into the scarred tissue. Results are not immediate, as it takes time for the fat cells to integrate with the surrounding cells and establish their blood supply.

Recovery & expected results

Fat transfer is the best filler for indented scars to produce natural results that will appear gradually in several months following the procedure. In the immediate post-treatment period, swelling, discomfort, and light bruising around the donor and recipient sites may occur. Fortunately, the recovery period is relatively short, and you should be able to return to your usual routine after a few days.

However, for the first few weeks, avoiding strenuous activities, like intense exercise or any contact sports, is advised to give your body time to heal. As time passes, the fat cells will integrate with their surroundings and take effect, helping to fill depressed scars and regenerate the area. These results’ overall impact and longevity can vary depending on your lifestyle.

FAQ

What are the potential risks of fat transfer?

While fat transfer for scars is generally considered a safe procedure, it does carry some potential risks and complications. Some potential risks include:

Oozing: this is common during the procedure or within the first 24 hours. The London Scar Clinic takes measures to minimise such risk and will provide the necessary after care advice.
Asymmetry: there is a possibility of uneven distribution of transferred fat, resulting in asymmetry.
Fat Necrosis: in rare cases, some of the transferred fat cells may not survive, leading to fat necrosis, which may result in irregularities and lumpiness.
Scarring: while the goal of fat transfer is to improve the appearance of scars, there is a small risk of developing new scars at the donor or injection sites.
Changes in sensation: temporary or permanent changes in sensation, such as numbness or hypersensitivity, may occur at the donor or injection sites.
Allergic reactions: although rare, allergic reactions to anaesthesia, medications, or materials used during the procedure can occur.

How much does the treatment cost?

The cost of fat transfer for scars depends on factors like the size and severity of the scar(s) needing treatment, and the number of sessions required.

Can lasers be combined with fat transfer?

Yes, and combining fat transfer and laser scar treatments can be effective. Laser treatment for scars may be administered either before or post-procedure to help improve scar appearance more quickly and promote skin healing processes.

What is my preferred donor site for fat transfer?

The abdomen, thighs, or buttocks are the most commonly chosen sites, due to their prevalence of fat cells. The ideal site for each patient will vary, which you can discuss and decide on with your specialist during the consultation.

Is the fat transfer for scars treatment permanent?

The longevity of the treatment’s effects will depend on various factors, like diet and lifestyle. For example, the effects may diminish if a patient loses weight. However, in many cases, the fat should remain in place indefinitely and provide visible benefits.

Is fat transfer more effective than dermal fillers as a treatment for scarring?

In certain instances, yes, it can provide longer-lasting benefits with fewer risks. However, certain patients may be more suited to dermal filler treatment. Again, this is something that your specialist can discuss with you during the consultation, using their expertise to decide on the most appropriate treatment.

How many sessions will I require?

That depends on a range of factors, like the number, size, and depth of your scars and the ideal outcome you are targeting. Patients with deeper, larger, and more scars need more fat transfer treatment sessions.