Fat transfer techniques have been used in plastic and reconstructive surgery for many years to restore volume and improve contour using a patient’s own tissue. More recently, developments in fat processing have led to the introduction of nanofat grafting, a technique that focuses less on volume enhancement and more on skin quality and tissue support.
But what exactly is nanofat, and how does it differ from traditional fat transfer procedures?
This article explains the principles behind nanofat grafting, the areas commonly treated, and some of the factors patients may wish to discuss during a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon.
What Is Nanofat?
Nanofat is created from a patient’s own fat tissue. After a small amount of fat has been harvested, typically using a gentle liposuction technique, the fat is processed to create an extremely fine liquid suspension.
Unlike conventional fat grafting, where intact fat cells are transferred to provide volume, nanofat is filtered and emulsified into much smaller particles. This processed tissue can then be placed into superficial layers of the skin and soft tissues.
The purpose of nanofat treatment is generally different from traditional fat transfer. Rather than being used primarily to restore volume, nanofat is often used where improvements in skin texture, skin quality, and tissue appearance are being considered.
How Does Nanofat Differ from Traditional Fat Transfer?
Traditional fat grafting and nanofat grafting both utilise a patient’s own fat tissue, but they are processed differently and are typically used for different clinical purposes.
Traditional Fat Transfer
Traditional fat grafting may be used to:
- Restore lost facial volume
- Improve contour irregularities
- Enhance certain anatomical areas
- Support reconstructive procedures
The transferred fat contains intact fat cells that can contribute to volume restoration.
Nanofat Grafting
Nanofat is processed into a much finer consistency and generally does not provide significant structural volume. Instead, it may be considered in areas where skin quality and surface texture are of particular concern.
Which Areas Can Be Treated with Nanofat?
The suitability of nanofat treatment varies between patients and should always be assessed during an individual consultation.
Areas sometimes considered for nanofat grafting include:
- Under-eye (tear trough) regions
- Around the mouth
- Fine facial lines
- Temples
- Cheeks
- Areas affected by acne scarring
- Areas showing signs of sun-related skin changes
Because nanofat has a very fine consistency, it can be placed in delicate treatment areas where larger-volume fat grafting may not be appropriate.
Can Nanofat Be Combined with Other Procedures?
In some cases, nanofat grafting may be performed alongside other aesthetic or reconstructive procedures.
Examples may include:
- Facelift surgery
- Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty)
- Fat transfer procedures
- Laser skin treatments
- Microneedling treatments
Whether combination treatment is appropriate depends on an individual’s anatomy, medical history, treatment goals, and overall suitability. A full consultation is required before any recommendation can be made.
What Are the Potential Advantages of Using Your Own Tissue?
One reason autologous fat transfer techniques remain popular is that they use tissue taken from the patient’s own body.
Potential considerations include:
- No synthetic filler material is used
- The tissue originates from the patient
- Fat harvesting can often be performed through small incisions
- The technique can be incorporated into certain surgical treatment plans
However, as with any medical procedure, suitability varies and outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Are There Risks Associated with Nanofat Grafting?
Yes. Like all surgical and non-surgical procedures, nanofat grafting carries potential risks and complications.
Possible risks may include:
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Discomfort
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Irregularities in the treated area
- Need for additional treatment
- Unsatisfactory cosmetic outcome
The harvesting process also involves liposuction, which carries its own risks that should be discussed during consultation.
A detailed discussion of benefits, limitations, alternatives and risks should always form part of the consent process before treatment proceeds.
Is Nanofat Grafting Right for Everyone?
Not necessarily.
The most appropriate treatment depends on many factors, including:
- Skin quality
- Age-related changes
- Previous treatments
- General health
- Smoking status
- Treatment objectives
Some patients may be better suited to traditional fat grafting, surgical procedures, non-surgical treatments, or a combination approach.
A consultation with a GMC-registered plastic surgeon allows treatment options to be discussed in the context of an individual’s specific circumstances.
Consultation with Mr Ahmed Abd El Gawad
Mr Ahmed Abd El Gawad is a GMC-registered Consultant Plastic Surgeon with over 20 years of clinical experience in plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery. Consultations are available in Manchester, Liverpool and other clinic locations to discuss treatment options and assess suitability on an individual basis.
Any recommendation regarding nanofat grafting would only be made following a full clinical assessment and discussion of the potential benefits, risks, alternatives and expected recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does nanofat add volume to the face?
Nanofat is generally not intended to provide significant volume enhancement. Traditional fat grafting is usually more appropriate when substantial volume restoration is required.
Is nanofat the same as dermal filler?
No. Dermal fillers are manufactured products, whereas nanofat is processed from a patient’s own fat tissue.
How is nanofat collected?
A small amount of fat is typically harvested using a liposuction technique before being processed into a fine liquid suspension.
How long do nanofat treatment sessions take?
Treatment times vary depending on the area being treated and whether nanofat is being combined with other procedures.
Will I be suitable for nanofat grafting?
Suitability can only be determined following a consultation and clinical assessment.
Medical Disclaimer:
This article is provided for general information only and should not be considered medical advice. Treatment suitability can only be determined following a full consultation with an appropriately qualified healthcare professional. Individual outcomes vary, and no specific results can be guaranteed.