When performing autologous fat implants, fat is liposuctioned from a fat-rich part of the body, such as the thighs or abdomen. Then the fat is cleaned, the excess fluid is removed, and a small needle is used to inject the fat into the area to be treated. In order to maximize results, most autologous fat implants are injected into the muscle tissue, where the fat tissue receives nourishment from the high concentration of blood vessels. Generally speaking, autologous fat implants take from around 30 minutes to an hour to perform, and can be done in combination with other procedures such as a face lift or lipoplasty.

Following autologous fat implants, patients rarely experience much pain, but a light narcotic such as Tylenol with codeine should be sufficient to address any discomfort. Some patients find that their autologous fat implants dissipate somewhat over time, with a certain amount of the fat being reabsorbed by their systems, especially if there is not sufficient blood supply. Overall, however, autologous fat implants tend to be permanent and low-risk solutions to many cosmetic issues.