Fat Transfer Pre & Post Operative Instructions
Please Read First
This page provides a condensed overview of preparation and recovery guidelines for dimpleplasty. For complete instructions—including anesthesia options, oral care, and recovery timelines—please download the full Pre-Operative and Post-Operative instruction documents below. These serve as your primary reference for a safe and successful recovery.
General Anesthesia Pre-Op & Post-Op Instructions Video
What to Expect
Fat transfer involves harvesting fat from one area of the body through liposuction and injecting it into another area to enhance contour and volume. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia, though local anesthesia with sedation may be used in some cases. Recovery varies depending on the areas treated but generally includes mild bruising, swelling, and restrictions on pressure to the transferred site.
Key Pre-Operative Guidelines (Summary)
Fasting: No food or drink (including water, mints, or gum) for 8 hours prior to surgery.
Transportation: Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home and remain with you for at least 1–2 days. Rideshare services are not permitted.
Medications: Stop aspirin, NSAIDs, and blood-thinning supplements (fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic, etc.) as directed.
Lifestyle Adjustments: Avoid nicotine for 4 weeks before and after surgery. Reduce or stop alcohol intake 2 weeks before and after.
Day of Surgery:
- Shower with mild soap the morning of surgery.
- Do not apply lotions, deodorant, or makeup.
- Wear loose, front-opening clothing.
Key Post-Operative Guidelines (Summary)
Positioning: Do not sit or lie directly on the area where fat was transferred (e.g., avoid sitting if fat was transferred to the buttocks). Use pillows or supports to protect the grafts while resting and sleeping.
Mobility: Begin gentle walking the day of surgery to reduce the risk of blood clots.
Medications:
- Tylenol (acetaminophen) is safe for pain.
- Narcotic pain medication may be prescribed; take with stool softeners.
- Antibiotics should be taken as directed.
- Zofran may be prescribed for nausea.
- Sinnech (Arnica montana) may be provided to help with bruising and swelling.
Bathing: You may shower the day after surgery. Avoid soaking in tubs, pools, or Jacuzzis until cleared.
Incision Care:
- Apply antibiotic ointment to liposuction puncture marks daily until healed.
- Keep incisions clean and dry.
Activity:
- Light activity is encouraged within a few days.
- Strenuous activity or exercise should be avoided for 6–8 weeks.
- Avoid direct pressure on the transferred area until cleared by your surgeon.
Return to Work: Most patients return within 5–7 days, depending on job demands.
Recovery Expectations
- Drainage: Mild drainage from puncture sites is normal in the first few days.
- Bruising: Expected, usually resolves within 2–3 weeks.
- Swelling: Can last for weeks to months; final results appear gradually.
- Skin Sensation: Temporary numbness or tingling is common and should improve over time.
- Emotional Recovery: Mood changes are normal as your body adjusts. Support is available if needed.
Follow-Up and Support
Urgent Concerns: Contact our office if you experience significant redness, warmth, drainage, fever over 101°F, or severe pain unrelieved by medication.
Emergency Situations: For difficulty breathing, chest pain, or signs of blood clot, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Ongoing Communication:
- For non-urgent questions, email: [email protected]
- For urgent matters, call the office at (808) 585-8855 (9am–5pm).
- After hours, contact the physician exchange at (808) 524-2575.
Appointments: Attending all scheduled follow-ups is essential to monitor healing and optimize results.
