Last week Dr Murray attended a Fat Transfer Conference in Sydney. The main lecturer was Sydney P Coleman who has just received the American Society of Plastic Surgeons trustee award for his work with Fat Transfer since the 80’s. The main topic of this conference was fat transfer to the face, the buttocks and behind the breasts for enhancement.
Read Below Dr Murray‘s Blog from the Conference:
During our discussion, we focused on the peri-orbital region. Dr. Coleman injects into both the upper and lower eyelids, noting that the tear trough and lower eyelid often contribute significantly to the appearance of baggy eyes, rather than the bags on the lids themselves.
We also explored the role of stem cells in enhancing skin appearance. Dr. Coleman suggested that regular fat transfer to the face every 2 to 5 years can utilise the beneficial properties of stem cells. These stem cells in the transferred fat can differentiate into collagen cells that integrate into the skin, providing noticeable improvements. Additionally, we discussed the potential effects of fat transfer on acne scarring, where injecting fat into scars can lead to significant enhancement, with some before-and-after photos showcasing remarkable results.
Another important topic was the challenge of addressing dark circles under the eyes. While improving dark circles is notoriously difficult, the results from fat transfer were impressive. It is worth noting that while the procedure can enhance the appearance of dark circles, it may lead to temporary secondary pigmentation that can last up to four months. However, this pigmentation is generally less concerning than the dark circles themselves.
We also looked at fat grafting to the back of the hands, which can diminish the appearance of bony and veiny hands. Six months post-treatment, the improvement in skin quality was evident.
In the context of breast enhancement, fat transfer was particularly intriguing. Some patients reported an increase of up to two cup sizes, with notable improvements in the upper pole of breasts that exhibited sagging. It was acknowledged that additional top-up procedures may be necessary to achieve optimal results, with some patients receiving between 300 to 350cc of fat.
Most fat transfer techniques can be performed under sedation with local anaesthetic, and the associated risks of infection and complications are generally low. However, it is important to note that fat transfer behind the breast is not recommended for individuals with a history of breast cancer.
Lastly, we discussed the application of fat transfer in the buttock region, where it is used by men seeking a more contoured appearance.
