Penile Augmentation By Fat Injection

Enlargement of the penis by fat injection is considered an experimental high-risk procedure, and there is currently insufficient data to establish its safety and effectiveness, according the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS).

The procedure involves removing fat through a syringe or liposuction tube from one area of the body (such as the flank, or "love handles") and injecting it into the shaft of the penis.

Aesthetic plastic surgeons warn that patients could experience complications, including infection, bleeding and contour irregularities, from fat transplantation to the penis. Furthermore, there is no evidence that the enlargement resulting from fat injection will be permanent, since a large percentage of the fat transferred from one part of the body to another is likely to be absorbed after only a few months.

In light of the apparent lack of long-term studies on this procedure, ASAPS urges patients to view penile augmentation by fat injection as investigational. Patients electing this procedure should be certain they are fully informed by their physician of all possible risks. In addition, they should check the credentials of the operating physician to determine whether his or her training and certification are appropriate for this type of surgical procedure. It is also advisable to seek a second opinion.