It involves 3 main steps:
• removing the fat – small cuts are made in the skin and a thin tube is used to suck out small amounts of fat (similar to liposuction); the cuts are then closed with stitches
• preparing the fat – special equipment is used to separate the fat collected from any blood and other fluids
• injecting the fat – small amounts of fat are injected into the area being treated; stitches are not usually needed
It usually takes about 2 hours for the surgery to be complete. You may be able to go home shortly after the operation is finished, or you may need to stay in hospital for the night.
If a large amount of fat is being removed, the surgery may need to be carried out over 2 or more sessions.
You should not have any problems during the procedure, but you may have some discomfort for a few days or weeks afterward. If you have a large area of fat removed, the surgeon may give you painkillers if you need them.