Fundamentals of Fat Transplantation

Transplantation of adipose tissue is used for cosmetic as well as for reconstructive purposes. The methods of harvesting, processing, and transplantation vary in practice. Grafts are harvested almost exclusively using special extraction needles. Smaller fat particles are harvested using fine needles with small diameters of lateral openings and again transplanted using thin injection needles. There is a proven relationship between the diameter of the fat particles and that of the perforations in the extraction needle. The adipose tissue can be harvested from different regions of the body, mostly from the buttocks or the trochanter region and also possibly from the inner sides of the upper thigh or the knee region. Just a few hours postoperatively, the beginning of the neovascularization becomes evident. A certain loss in volume is generally experienced. Finally, the risks and complications of transplantation of autologous adipose tissue are discussed.