Fat-enhanced Augmentation: The Coleman Technique
Probably the most exciting development in Plastic Surgery over the last few years has been the growth in fat injections, also known as fat-enhanced augmentation. Pioneered by the American Plastic Surgeon Dr Sydney Coleman, the technique involves removing fat from one part of the body through liposuction and re-injecting it to another.
How are fat injections carried out?
Fat is removed from an area of the body where there is excess – for instance around the belly button using a special atraumatic liposuction technique. This fat is then spun in a centrifuge to separate the fat cells from the fluid. The fat cells are then carefully re-injected into another area to give volume. Typical areas maybe indented scars, facial indentations, cheek bone highlights, and breast reconstructions. Of the fat injected around 2/3 of the fat survives.
Is the technique complicated?
The technique is very dependent upon the skill and experience of the surgeon as very careful handling and injection techniques are required to maximise the survival of the fragile fat. Vivek has spent years using this technique and has been involved in a multinational research trial using fat injections.
What areas are best treated?
Any area of indentation can be filled out, so areas of indented scars or volume loss from the face are particularly well suited. Vivek likes to do some fat injections as an adjuct to a face lift to improve the look of the cheekbones and correct the tear trough deformity caused by mid face descent.
Can the technique be used for breast Augmentation?
In theory, yes. However a few words of caution. Firstly, the fat cells injected into the breast have a very high concentration of adipose-derived regenerative cells (stem cells), much higher in fact that bone marrow. As breasts cancer is the commonest female cancer it is not yet established whether it is safe to inject fat into normal breasts. This is the subject of ongoing trials including one Vivek has been involved with. We think it is too early to start injecting fat into normal breasts at this stage, although we know that some companies have started offering this. As soon as the technique proves safe we will start to offer it.
If you would like a consultation for fat injections please either call 0800 334 5153 or use our online contact form