Autologous Fat Treatment (Lipofilling & Lipotransfer)

Why use foreign materials when the body itself provides the best material? Autologous fat transfer, also known as lipofilling or lipotransfer, is a proven method for treating wrinkles, restoring volume, and contouring the body.

I am Dr. Juliane Bodo, a board-certified specialist in plastic and aesthetic surgery in Berlin-Charlottenburg. In lipofilling, the body’s own fat tissue is gently harvested, processed, and precisely injected into areas that need volume or definition—without the use of any foreign materials. This method is suitable for both facial rejuvenation and for contouring the breasts, buttocks, or other areas of the body.

Autologous Fat Transfer to the Face – For a Fresh, Youthful Appearance

The harvesting and transplantation of autologous fat is a key component of modern facial rejuvenation procedures. Autologous fat contains regenerative cells and growth factors that not only smooth out wrinkles but also improve skin quality over the long term.

Unlike synthetic fillers (e.g., hyaluronic acid), autologous fat offers a natural, long-lasting alternative—without any risk of foreign body reactions or incompatibilities. The procedure is made particularly effective through modern water-jet-assisted liposuction, fine microcannulas, and precise injection techniques.

Facial Lipofilling:

• Glabellar wrinkles (frown lines)
• Tear Troughs (Dark Circles)
• Nasolabial folds
• Restoring Volume to Sunken Cheeks
• Definition of the Cheekbone Region
• Lip Augmentation & Contouring
• Chin and Lower Jaw Contouring
• Chin Wrinkles (Horizontal Wrinkles)

Benefits of autologous fat transfer to the face:

• Use of the body's own tissue – no allergic reactions
• Long-term result: Approximately 70% of the fat introduced is retained over the long term
• Improving Skin Texture with Stem Cells and Growth Factors
• Can be combined with a facelift, forehead lift, or eyelid surgery

After treatment: After autologous fat transfer to the face, swelling and minor bruising may occur. Keeping your head elevated (e.g., on two pillows) during the first few days can significantly reduce these symptoms. No visible scars will form. Small sutures are present only at the fat harvest sites (usually the abdomen or thighs).

Autologous Fat Treatment for Body Contouring – Lipotransfer for Harmonious Proportions

Why remove and dispose of fat when it can be used specifically for body contouring? In lipotransfer, the fat that was previously removed is used to gently shape and accentuate specific areas of the body.

Typical applications for autologous fat on the body:

• Breast augmentation with autologous fat (Breast Augmentation)
• Buttock Augmentation („Brazilian Butt Lift“)
• Shaping the Chin, Cheekbones, and Lower Jaw
• Hand Rejuvenation

Thanks to modern technology, fat tissue can be harvested, processed, and injected with precision in a particularly gentle manner—with a focus on aesthetics, natural results, and longevity. Important: Not every transplanted fat cell survives. Depending on the technique and the treatment area, 20–40% of the volume is lost—therefore, for larger volume augmentations (e.g., breasts, buttocks), multiple sessions may be possible or necessary.

After Autologous Fat Grafting—What to Keep in Mind

Face:

• Elevate the head for 2–3 days
• Mild swelling and bruising may occur
• No visible scars on the face, small stitches at the incision sites
• Usually able to socialize after just a few days

Body (chest, buttocks, etc.):

• Compression garments for 6 weeks, so as not to interfere with the growth of fat cells
• Temporary numbness or bruising may occur
• No physical exertion for about 2 weeks

Potential Risks Associated with Autologous Fat Grafting (Lipofilling/Lipotransfer)

Autologous fat transfer is considered a very safe procedure in aesthetic and plastic surgery—especially since it uses only the patient’s own tissue. However, as with any medical procedure, there are some potential risks and side effects that you should be fully informed about beforehand.

General Risks:

• Swelling and bruising at injection or blood draw sites
• Sensory disturbances (temporary) in the treated area
• Asymmetries caused by uneven fat integration
• Infections

Specific Risks:

• Partial volume loss: 20–40% of the transplanted fat may be reabsorbed—therefore, repeat treatments may be necessary for large-volume transfers.
• Hardening (fibrosis) caused by uneven distribution (especially when fat deposits are too large)
• Microcalcifications in the breast (relevant for breast augmentation; can be evaluated via mammography)

Risk Mitigation:

• Choosing an Experienced Specialist in Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery
• Avoid physical strain or pressure on the treated areas for 2–6 weeks (depending on the area)
• Avoid nicotine and alcohol before and after the procedure
• Follow through with thorough post-treatment care and keep your follow-up medical appointments

Conclusion: Naturally beautiful with your own fat—safe, effective, and versatile

Autologous fat transfer is one of the most versatile and gentle methods in aesthetic surgery. It combines volume restoration, skin rejuvenation, and body contouring—all without the use of foreign materials. Whether as part of a facial rejuvenation, breast augmentation, or a body contouring treatment—during a personal consultation, I’ll work with you to determine whether fat transfer is the right approach for your goals.

Autologous fat transfer is particularly suitable for:

• the replacement of removed breast implants
• a natural desire for gentle, scar-free volume correction
• simultaneous body contouring through fat removal (e.g., waist, thighs)

Frequently Asked Questions About Fat Transfer.