Fat Transfer – Nanofat in Des Moines, IA

Natural Regenerative Skin Rejuvenation
Fat transfer is an advanced, all-natural technique that uses your own fat to restore volume and rejuvenate skin. At Des Moines Plastic Surgery, board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. David Robbins performs fat transfer procedures using refined methods that allow harvested fat to be processed into microfat or nanofat, depending on the specific treatment goals.
The most powerful regenerative cells live in your own fat tissue. Microfat and nanofat transfer offer a powerful alternative to synthetic fillers by delivering both structural support and regenerative benefits using your body’s own tissue. This personalized approach allows for natural-looking enhancement with long-lasting results.

What Is Fat Transfer?
Fat transfer is a same-day procedure that begins with gentle fat harvesting from an area of the body where fat is naturally present. Once collected, the fat is carefully processed using specialized technology to refine it into different consistencies.
- Microfat: This method is used when volume restoration or contour enhancement is needed.
- Nanofat: The harvested fat is further refined into an ultra-fine solution designed for skin quality improvement and tissue regeneration rather than volume.
Fat transfer has been safely performed for decades and continues to evolve as techniques become more precise and customizable.
Microfat vs. Nanofat: Understanding the Difference
Although both techniques use your own fat, their purposes are distinct.
Microfat Transfer:
Microfat is used primarily for volume and contour enhancement. It is injected deeper into tissues to restore fullness and shape and is commonly used for:
- Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)
- Breast contouring or enhancement
- Facial volume loss
- Body contouring procedures
Nanofat Transfer:
Nanofat is processed into extremely small particles that contain regenerative cells and growth factors but minimal volume. Its primary role is skin rejuvenation and tissue repair, not contouring.
Nanofat can be injected or, in select cases, applied topically to improve skin health in delicate or superficial areas.
How Nanofat Transfer Works
Nanofat contains biologic components that support tissue repair and skin quality improvement. These regenerative elements help stimulate collagen remodeling, improve blood supply to the skin, and enhance overall dermal health over time.
Unlike fillers, which provide immediate structural volume, nanofat produces gradual improvement as the skin responds biologically. Results continue to develop as healing progresses, leading to smoother, healthier-looking skin rather than an artificially filled appearance.
Benefits of Nanofat Transfer for Skin Rejuvenation
Nanofat transfer is valued for its regenerative effects on skin and soft tissue, offering benefits that extend beyond traditional fillers. Depending on individual anatomy and treatment goals, nanofat may be used to support:
Skin Quality and Rejuvenation
- Improve skin tone and texture
- Soften fine lines and crepey skin
- Enhance skin hydration
- Facial and neck rejuvenation
Delicate and High-Sensitivity Areas
- Under-eye discoloration or hollowing
- Thin or fragile skin
- Hand rejuvenation
Scar and Tissue Repair
- Acne scars
- Surgical scars
- Traumatic scars
Specialized Applications
- Hair rejuvenation
- Select sexual wellness applications
A consultation is essential to determine which applications are appropriate and how nanofat may be incorporated into a personalized treatment plan.
Nanofat Transfer: Collagen Support and a Natural Alternative to Fillers
Nanofat transfer improves skin quality by supporting collagen remodeling and tissue regeneration. Rather than adding volume like traditional fillers, nanofat works at the cellular level to encourage healthier, thicker, more resilient skin over time.
Nanofat does not replace fillers in every case. During your consultation, your surgeon determines whether nanofat, fillers, or a combination approach is best suited to your anatomy and goals.
Combining Fat Transfer With Other Procedures
Fat transfer can be performed as a standalone treatment or combined with other procedures to enhance overall results. Depending on your goals, fat transfer may be paired with:
- Facial surgical procedures such as facelift surgery
- Laser resurfacing treatments (including HALO®, MOXI®, or similar technologies)
- Microneedling
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP), which may be added to harvested fat to support fat cell survival and enhance regenerative effects
Combination treatments are planned carefully to maintain balance, safety, and natural outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Choose Des Moines Plastic Surgery™ for Fat Transfer – Nanofat?
Des Moines Plastic Surgery™ is known for natural-looking results and high surgical standards. Dr. David Robbins is the only quadruple board-certified plastic surgeon in Iowa. Patients from West Des Moines to Ankeny and across the surrounding areas of Polk County choose our state of the art clinic for facial plastic surgery because we offer:
- A fully accredited, on-site surgical suite in West Des Moines
- Experience with more than 10,000 cosmetic surgery procedures
- A focus on safe, natural facelift outcomes
- Proven results highlighted in our Before & After Gallery
- A patient-centered environment that supports you from consultation through recovery
You can also explore our patient testimonials to see real experiences from individuals who chose our practice for their facial rejuvenation.
Schedule Your Fat Transfer – Nanofat Consultation in West Des Moines or Ankeny
If you’re ready to restore a more youthful look to your skin with nanofat, request an appointment at Des Moines Plastic Surgery™. Call us at 515.221.9999 or you can book a consultation online for either our clinic in West Des Moines or our plastic surgery office at the Coachlight Clinic in Ankeny. Dr. Robbins and his team will listen to your goals, evaluate your concerns, and create a fat transfer plan tailored to you.
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