Fat transfer, also known as lipofilling or autologous fat grafting, is one of the most in-demand procedures in cosmetic surgery today. At Dr. Brianda Hurtado de Mendoza’s clinics in Málaga and Marbella, this innovative treatment allows patients to sculpt their bodies naturally by using their own fat — achieving balanced, long-lasting results without the need for implants or synthetic materials.
What exactly is fat transfer?
Fat transfer is a surgical technique that involves extracting fat from one area of the body — such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks — through gentle liposuction. This fat is then carefully purified and reinjected into another area where more volume or contour is desired, such as the buttocks, face, breasts, or even the hands.
The key advantage of this procedure is that it uses your own tissue, making it completely biocompatible and reducing any risk of rejection or allergic reaction. Additionally, the regenerative properties of fat help improve skin quality in the treated area.
How is a fat transfer performed?
1. Fat extraction
The procedure begins with gentle liposuction from areas where excess fat tends to accumulate, such as the abdomen, waist, or thighs. This not only provides the material for the transfer but also refines and contours the donor area.
2. Fat purification
Once harvested, the fat is processed through filtration or centrifugation to separate viable fat cells and regenerative factors from fluids or impurities. This step ensures the highest quality fat for reinjection.
3. Fat injection
The purified fat is then carefully reinjected into the target area. This stage requires precision and experience to achieve symmetrical, natural-looking results and ensure the fat integrates properly with surrounding tissues.
Main areas where fat transfer is performed
Fat transfer to the buttocks
The Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) is one of the most popular fat transfer procedures. It enhances and reshapes the buttocks naturally, without the need for implants. Fat is strategically injected to create a rounder, firmer, and more proportionate silhouette.
By removing fat from other areas such as the abdomen or hips, the overall body contour is improved, achieving the highly desired “hourglass” figure. The results are long-lasting, soft to the touch, and completely natural-looking.
Facial fat transfer
In the face, fat transfer is used to restore lost volume caused by aging. It’s perfect for filling the cheeks, under-eye hollows, nasolabial folds, or chin. Unlike dermal fillers, fat grafting offers longer-lasting results and helps rejuvenate the skin by stimulating collagen production.
Breast fat transfer
In selected cases, fat transfer can be used to increase breast volume or correct mild asymmetries. While it cannot replace implants for patients seeking a significant size increase, it’s an excellent option for those who prefer a subtle, natural enhancement.
Fat transfer to the hands
Hand rejuvenation using fat grafting is becoming increasingly popular. Over time, hands lose volume, making veins and tendons more visible. Fat transfer restores fullness, giving the hands a smoother, younger appearance.
Advantages of fat transfer
- Natural look and feel: since your own fat is used, results are completely natural to the touch and in appearance.
- Safety: no risk of allergic reactions or rejection.
- Long-lasting results: once the transferred fat successfully integrates, it becomes permanent.
- Comprehensive contouring: unwanted fat is removed from one area and used to enhance another.
- Regenerative benefits: fat contains growth factors that improve skin tone, elasticity, and radiance.
Risks and aftercare following fat transfer
While fat transfer is a safe and well-tolerated procedure when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon such as Dr. Brianda, all surgical procedures carry some risks. These may include minor asymmetries, partial fat reabsorption, or temporary swelling and bruising.
Recovery is generally smooth. Patients should avoid putting pressure on the treated area for the first few weeks and wear compression garments over the donor sites. Swelling usually subsides within a couple of weeks, and final results can be seen after three to four months.
Fat transfer in Málaga and Marbella with Dr. Brianda
Dr. Brianda Hurtado de Mendoza is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in facial and body fat transfer. Her clinics in Málaga and Marbella offer a personalized approach, combining advanced techniques with a natural aesthetic philosophy.
Her team employs the latest technology for liposuction and fat purification, ensuring maximum graft survival and optimal safety. During your consultation, Dr. Brianda will evaluate your anatomy and goals to create a tailored surgical plan, determining the most suitable donor and recipient areas for you.
Are you a good candidate for fat transfer?
Fat transfer is ideal for individuals who want to enhance their figure or rejuvenate specific areas without synthetic materials. The best candidates are those who:
- Have localized fat deposits in the abdomen, hips, or thighs.
- Are in good overall health.
- Seek natural, proportionate results.
- Do not smoke or can stop smoking before and after surgery.
During your consultation, Dr. Brianda will assess your expectations and physical characteristics to determine whether fat transfer is the right treatment for you.
Natural and long-lasting results
The results of fat transfer become visible within a few weeks, once swelling decreases and the grafted fat integrates fully. Around 60% to 80% of the transferred fat typically survives permanently, depending on each individual case.
The final outcome is a more harmonious figure, enhanced buttocks, or a rejuvenated face without artificial signs. Ultimately, it’s a natural enhancement that boosts both confidence and self-image.
Fat transfer is one of the most versatile and natural procedures in modern aesthetic surgery. It allows you to reshape your body, enhance volume in the buttocks, breasts, or face, and improve skin quality thanks to the regenerative properties of your own fat. At Dr. Brianda’s clinics in Málaga and Marbella, the procedure is performed with the highest standards of safety, precision, and artistry — always prioritizing harmony and natural beauty.
