Also called micro-lipoinjection or fat transplantation, autologous fat transfer involves the removal and relocation of the patient's own body fat to plump up an area that has lost volume as a result of surgery, injury, aging or another cause. Fat is removed through liposuction, often from the abdomen, buttocks or thighs. It is then processed and injected into the area being treated. Both sites are numbed with local anesthesia.

The procedure is commonly used for breast augmentation and wrinkle and crease reduction. Because the transplanted fat comes from the patient, it does not carry a risk of allergic reaction or rejection. Other advantages include a short recovery time, long-lasting results and effectiveness on any skin type.