Grafting of autologous fat harvested by liposuction technique to face, eyelids, mouth, neck, ears, orbits, genitalia, hands, and/or feet; 25 cc or less injectate
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Grafting of Autologous Fat Harvested by Liposuction Technique to Face, Eyelids, Mouth, Neck, Ears, Orbits, Genitalia, Hands, and/or Feet; 25 cc or Less Injectate
Summary
This procedure involves taking fat from one part of the patient's body using liposuction and injecting it into specific areas like the face, eyelids, mouth, neck, ears, orbits, genitalia, hands, or feet. This can help restore volume and improve appearance in these areas with the addition of up to 25 cc of fat.
Purpose
The procedure addresses volume loss, contour irregularities, and age-related changes in targeted areas. The purpose is to enhance aesthetics, improve symmetry, and restore a more youthful appearance by utilizing the patient's own fat.
Indications
- Volume loss in the face, hands, or other areas
- Contour deformities or irregularities
- Age-related fat atrophy
- Enhance reconstruction post-injury or surgery
- Correct congenital deformities
Preparation
- Fasting for 6-8 hours prior if general anesthesia is used
- Discontinue blood-thinning medications as advised
- Conduct pre-operative assessments such as blood tests and imaging
Procedure Description
- Harvesting Fat:
- A tumescent solution is injected into the donor site (abdomen, thighs).
- Liposuction is performed to harvest fat cells.
- Processing:
- The fat is purified and prepared for injection.
- Injection:
- Local anesthesia or sedation is applied to the target area.
- The purified fat is meticulously injected into the desired areas in small, controlled amounts.
Tools used include liposuction cannulas, syringes, and centrifuge for fat processing.
Duration
Typically takes 1 to 3 hours, depending on the extent of fat grafting.
Setting
Performed in a hospital, outpatient surgical center, or clinic with appropriate facilities.
Personnel
- Plastic Surgeon or Dermatologic Surgeon
- Surgical Nurses
- Anesthesiologist, if general anesthesia is used
Risks and Complications
- Infection
- Fat necrosis or lump formation
- Asymmetry
- Reabsorption of grafted fat
- Bruising or swelling
Benefits
- Natural enhancement with minimal scarring
- Improved contour and volume
- Long-lasting results if fat survives
Recovery
- Wear compression garments as instructed
- Manage swelling and bruising with medications and cold compresses
- Avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks
- Follow-up appointments for assessment
Alternatives
- Dermal fillers (hyaluronic acid or synthetic fillers)
- Implants for specific areas
- Pros: Immediate results, no donor site needed
- Cons: Risk of allergic reaction, not permanent
Patient Experience
During the procedure, the patient will feel minimal discomfort due to local anesthesia. Post-procedure, expect swelling, bruising, and some tenderness, which can be managed with prescribed medications. Full results are usually evident within a few months as the fat settles and integrates.