Autologous fat treatment (lipofilling & lipotransfer)

Lipotransfer: Information at a glance

duration of the surgery1 hour
anesthesiaLocal anesthesia
hospital stayoutpatient
Post opCooling, head bandage
socially acceptableafter about 1 week
Costsabout 3.000 €

Natural volume through body fat – for face and body

Autologous fat transfer treatment, also known as Lipofilling or Lipotransfer, is a proven method for wrinkle treatment, volume filling, and body contouring. The body's own fatty tissue is gently removed, processed, and injected into areas that require volume or definition – without any foreign materials. This method is suitable for both Facial rejuvenation as well as to Shaping of breasts, buttocks or other body areas.

Autologous fat treatment on the face – for a fresh, youthful appearance

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

In contrast to synthetic fillers (e.g. hyaluronic acid), autologous fat offers natural, long-lasting alternative – without the risk of foreign body reactions or intolerances. The procedure is particularly high-quality thanks to modern waterjet-associated liposuction, fine microcannulas and precise injection techniques.

Lipofilling in the face:

  • Glabellar lines (frown lines)
  • Tear trough (dark circles)
  • Nasolabial folds
  • Volume building of sunken cheeks
  • Definition of the cheekbone region
  • Lip augmentation & contouring
  • Chin and lower jaw modeling
  • Wrinkles on the chin (horizontal wrinkles)

Advantages of autologous fat treatment on the face:

  • Use of the body’s own tissue – no allergic reactions
  • Permanent result: approx. 70% of the injected fat is retained in the long term
  • Improvement of skin structure through stem cells and growth factors
  • Combination with facelift, forehead lift or eyelid correction possible

After treatment: After the autologous fat transfer treatment on the face, swelling and small bruises may occur. Head elevation (e.g., on two pillows) during the first few days, these discomforts can be significantly reduced. There are no visible scars. Small stitches are only placed at the fat removal sites (usually the abdomen or thighs).

Autologous fat treatment for body contouring – lipotransfer for harmonious proportions

Why liposuction and dispose of fat when you can use it specifically for body modeling? LipotransferThe previously removed fat is used to gently shape and emphasize certain areas of the body.

Typical areas of application for autologous fat on the body:

Thanks to modern technology, fat tissue can be harvested, processed, and injected in a particularly gentle manner – with a focus on aesthetics, naturalness, and durability. Important: Not every transplanted fat cell survivesDepending on the technique and region, 20–40% of the volume is lost – for larger volume augmentations (e.g. breast, buttocks), several sessions possible or necessary.

After autologous fat treatment – ​​what to consider

Face:

  • Head elevation for 2–3 days
  • Slight swelling and hematomas possible
  • No visible scars on the face, small threads at donor sites
  • Social ability usually after a few days

Body (chest, buttocks, etc.):

  • Compression clothing for 6 weeksin order not to impair the ingrowth of fat cells
  • Temporary numbness or bruising may occur
  • No physical exertion for about 2 weeks

Possible risks of autologous fat treatment (lipofilling/lipotransfer)

Autologous fat transfer is considered a very safe procedure in aesthetic plastic surgery—especially since it uses only the body'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 Hematomas (bruises) at injection or withdrawal sites
  • Sensory disturbances (temporarily) in the treated area
  • Asymmetries due to uneven healing of the fat
  • infections

Special risks:

  • Partial volume loss: 20–40% of the transplanted fat can be reabsorbed – therefore, repeat treatments may be necessary for large-volume transfers.
  • hardening (fibrosis) due to uneven distribution (especially with excessively large fat deposits)
  • Microcalcification in the breast (relevant for breast enlargement, can be clarified by mammography)

Risk minimization:

  • Choosing an experienced specialist in plastic and aesthetic surgery
  • No physical strain or pressure on the treated areas for 2–6 weeks (depending on the region)
  • Avoid nicotine and alcohol before and after the procedure
  • Thorough follow-up care and medical check-ups

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

Autologous fat treatment is now one of the most gentle and effective methods for aesthetic correction of the face and body. It combines volume augmentation, skin rejuvenation, and body contouring – all without the use of foreign materials. Whether as part of facial rejuvenation or a body contouring treatment: In a personal consultation, we will determine together whether lipotransfer is the right method for your needs.

Autologous fat treatment is particularly suitable for:

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

Once ingrown, fat cells remain permanently. Approximately 60–80% of the injected volume is usually stable after 3–6 months.

For larger volume enhancements (e.g., breasts or buttocks), a repeat treatment may be beneficial. For facial enhancements, one session is usually sufficient.

No – the injection sites are tiny, and the extraction sites (e.g. on the abdomen or thigh) require only a small skin incision, which usually heals unnoticed.

On the face: after a few days. On the body (e.g., after a Brazilian butt lift): 1–2 weeks, depending on the extent. Physical rest for approximately 4–6 weeks.

Preferably belly, flanks, thighs or inner knees – depending on individual fat distribution.

Yes – autologous fat is ideal for treating wrinkles, volume loss and facial skin rejuvenation.

Costs vary depending on the region and scope. You'll receive a precise estimate during a personal consultation.

last updated on 15.07.2025

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