15771 Grafting of autologous fat harvested by liposuction technique to trunk, breasts, scalp, arms, and/or legs; 50 cc or less injectate

Name of the Procedure:

Grafting of Autologous Fat Harvested by Liposuction Technique to Trunk, Breasts, Scalp, Arms, and/or Legs; 50 cc or Less Injectate

Summary

This procedure involves removing a small amount of the patient's own fat tissue via liposuction and then injecting this fat into areas such as the trunk, breasts, scalp, arms, or legs to enhance appearance or address specific medical conditions.

Purpose

The procedure aims to restore or enhance volume in targeted areas, correct contour irregularities, or improve skin texture. Fat grafting can be used for cosmetic enhancements or reconstructive purposes, promoting more natural-looking results.

Indications

• Volume loss in the trunk, breasts, scalp, arms, or legs due to aging, surgery, or trauma
• Contour irregularities or asymmetries in these areas
• Skin depressions or scars requiring correction
• Cosmetic enhancements for improved aesthetics

Preparation

Patients may be advised to:

• Fast for a certain period before the procedure, typically 8 hours
• Avoid certain medications that can increase bleeding risk, such as aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs
• Undergo relevant diagnostic tests like blood work or imaging studies, if necessary

Procedure Description

1. Harvesting: The surgeon performs liposuction, usually under local anesthesia, to extract the fat tissue from a donor area such as the abdomen or thighs.
2. Processing: The harvested fat is purified to remove any impurities or excess fluids.
3. Injections: The purified fat is carefully injected into the targeted sites (trunk, breasts, scalp, arms, or legs) using fine needles or cannulas, ensuring even distribution and molding as needed.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 1 to 3 hours, depending on the number of areas treated.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeon
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist (if general anesthesia or sedation is used)

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: swelling, bruising, and discomfort at both the donor and graft sites
• Rare risks: infection, fat embolism, or asymmetry and uneven contouring
• Complications may include fat resorption (loss of some fat volume over time) and cyst formation

Benefits

• Improved aesthetic appearance and volume in treated areas
• Natural-looking results using the patient's own tissue
• Minimal risk of allergic reactions

Patients might begin to see some results immediately, with optimal outcomes typically visible after a few months once swelling subsides and fat settles.

Recovery

• Post-procedure instructions may include wearing compression garments, avoiding strenuous activities, and monitoring graft and donor sites for signs of infection.
• Most patients return to normal activities within 1 to 2 weeks.
• Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor the progress and address any concerns.

Alternatives

• Dermal fillers for volume enhancement
• Synthetic implants for breast or body augmentation
• Other cosmetic or reconstructive surgeries

Alternative treatments may offer quicker recovery but may not provide as natural results or could carry different risks.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients may feel pressure or mild discomfort but generally experience minimal pain due to local anesthesia. Post-procedure, they can expect swelling, bruising, and temporary soreness at both the donor and graft sites. Pain management strategies, including prescribed medications and at-home care instructions, will be provided to ensure a comfortable recovery.