How Can I Increase the Take Rate for a Fat Transfer?

There are several factors that can affect fat graft survival:


Surgical technique. There is no one agreed upon method to properly perform fat transfer. There is a general consensus that the fat must be handled very gently, using minimal suction to harvest the fat. The fat must be isolated from any blood products, numbing medicine and ruptured fat cells. Some surgeons use a centrifuge whereas others use different methods. This is where finding a plastic surgeon who can show you photos of good long term (ideally 1+ years postoperative) results is very important. The specific details of the grafting process aren't quite as important as long as it leads to good long term results.

Graft Volume. I find it very important to place the fat as a fine, three-dimensional lattice in order to maximize the surface area available for the new blood vessels to reach the fat grafts. If the fat is placed in too large a volume the blood vessels won't be able to reach the "core", leading to fat cell death.

Excessive motion to the recipient site. This is what limits fat grafting results to the lips. They're so mobile that it is very difficult for the new blood supply to make it to the new fat cells. The tear trough area generally does very well in this regard as it is not mobile at all. I wouldn't do excessive massage or manipulation of the area, though.

Smoking cigarettes. Cigarettes constrict the blood vessels of the face, limiting the blood supply to the new fat

Age. Fat grafting doesn't take as well in patients who are in their 70s and older.


I'm not sure how long you've waited between treatments, but it is important to realize that in my hands patients will have a perceived low point in their result about 6 months after the procedure (when the swelling has all dissipated). Then from 6 months to 18 months after the procedure the grafts will "take" and continue to blossom.

Most of the longevity is determined by the surgeon and their experience. Those of us that do a lot of fat transfer have used trial and error to try all of the techniques out there and we have found what works best in our hands. The goals of the patient are to keep the area safe. No trauma ( for instance no contact sports). Keep your weight stable. I make sure all my patients are at their ideal weight prior to the surgery. I had a patient yesterday that is trying to lose ten pounds so she is going to return in a few months when that is done. Smoking or anything that decreases the oxygen supply to the fat is a no no. This is includes things like skidiving, ocean diving, and high mountain climbing (again those of us that have done a lot have seen everything! Hope this helps.Best of luck,DrC

The viability of fat cells after fat injections depends on how gently the fat is removed, the size of the fat particles, the manner in which the fat is treated, the recipient site's vascular supply, ensuring that the fat is not placed into an empty space without much blood flow, and that you do NOT smoke.