Liposhifting is a face and body contouring filling and contouring procedure that is also called fat transfer and is usually performed in conjunction with liposculpture (tumescent liposuction), the procedure that uses a tumescent solution of lidocaine and epinephrine to “liquefy” fat. However, the origin of liposhifting came from the need for patients who previously had traditional liposuction but later experienced uneven skin texture or dimpling. Unlike traditional liposuction, liposhifting does not remove fat tissue but instead, like that name implies, moves it to fill in areas of the body with scars, indentations or dimpling. This “re-positioned” fat tissue creates a smoother, more even texture, both visually and to the touch.
Most liposhifting procedures are performed on larger areas of the body such as the thighs and buttocks, but fat can be transferred to most areas of the body. For the face, the temples and the upper cheek fat pad are treated. Patients have the choice of using general anesthesia, but most surgeons recommend local anesthetic. The procedure begins with the surgeon marking areas of treatment – for the body, the patient is advised to stand in order to ensure concise mapping. For the body, the surgeon makes a small incision and inserts an instrument called a Micro Graft Fat Cutter (MGFC), a specially designed cannula that consists of tiny holes and resembles a mini cheese grater. The MGFC is made in 3 different diameters for different body areas and is used on fat tissue in a “grating” motion. The blades break down the fat tissue and the broken down, emulsified fat is then re-released back under the skin to the treatment area. If the patient has opted to use the tumescent solution, he or she can move his or her body into different positions throughout the procedure to allow the surgeon better reach. For the face, fat is harvested from donor or host sites such as the thighs and buttocks and loaded into syringes. After treatment, the body is taped and a compression garment is used for up to 7 days in order to ensure that full fat grafting takes place. A skilled surgeon will displace or shift only 10% or less of fat tissue.
Recovery time after liposhifting is minimal if the tumescent solution is used. Some studies estimate that a patient can lose approximately 3 tablespoons of blood throughout the procedure (if treatment is done correctly). Usually only one appointment is needed, although some patients may require a second
follow-up. If a second appointment is necessary, a patient is advised to wait 3-4 months. If liposhifting is performed on the face, patients are advised to avoid activities that can create lines and wrinkles such as drinking through a straw, and to sleep on their backs. As previously mentioned, the ideal candidate for liposhifting is the patient who previously had traditional lipo performed and has completely healed. As with any body contouring procedure, ideal candidates are those who are in good health and are only approximately 25% overweight. Individuals who smoke must quit before the procedure and liposhifting is not recommended for those who experience conditions such as vascular, heart or nerve problems (due to the use of the tumescent solution). Risks are minimal but may include bruising, bleeding, possible scarring or infection. Also, if the surgeon is not skilled enough with the cannula when treating the body, permanent depressions and dimpling can occur.
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