Fat Pad Atrophy
Constant pounding, repetitive motion, and shoes with little or no support (like sandals, flip-flops, or high heels) can all contribute to thinning of, or damage to, the fat tissue on the bottom of the foot.
Fat pad atrophy is the loss of the protective layer on the bottom of the foot. When it happens, the thickness of the pad decreases, and you lose its shock absorbing capability, which is necessary to protect the bones and nerves in your foot.
When the fat pad is gone, it can result in bruising of the bone. It feels like your bones are actually hitting the ground or like you are walking on rocks.
The Procedure
The doctor implants Liposana in the affected area on the bottom of the foot to help start the restorative process. This fat transplant is done right in the office.
Its components enable fat cells to migrate and attach to the fibrous network of the extracellular matrix, part of fat’s native structure. Once implanted, it provides immediate structural support and protection where the fat pad atrophy occurred.
The area may need to be off-loaded (protected) for a short period of time to allow the fat to settle in the appropriate space.
What to Expect
Liposana® is implanted to replace or supplement injured fat issue in the foot. It stimulates the body’s natural ability to restore fat into existing tissue.
The transplant is intended to provide cushioning properties to help protect the bones and relieve pain.
Over time, Liposana® will be incorporated into the surrounding area and eventually be replaced by the patient’s own tissue.
Once back to normal activities, patients often report that their pain is significantly reduced or gone, and they are back to their regular lives.