At Southern Maryland Foot & Ankle, we are always looking for innovative treatments to relieve pain, restore function, and improve quality of life. One of the newer procedures now available is fat augmentation (also called fat grafting or fat pad restoration) for the foot.
Why Fat Augmentation?
The natural fat pads on the bottom of the foot act like built-in cushions. Over time, or due to medical conditions, these fat pads can thin out. Without that protective padding, pressure builds up on the bones of the foot, often leading to painful calluses, burning sensations, and difficulty walking.
Fat augmentation restores cushioning by transferring fat into areas of the foot that have lost padding. Think of it as “re-inflating the pillow” under your foot.
Benefits for Painful Calluses
- Pressure Relief: Reduces pain from calluses caused by excessive pressure on bony areas.
- Improved Comfort: Makes standing and walking more comfortable, even in regular shoes.
- Long-Lasting Results: While some of the grafted fat may be absorbed, many patients report lasting improvement in pain and function.
Other Applications in Foot & Ankle Care
Fat grafting has also shown promise in other areas, including:
- Post-surgical pain: Helping cushion areas that remain tender after surgery.
- Arthritis-related pain: Reducing pressure on joints affected by arthritis.
- Ball of the foot pain (metatarsalgia): Restoring natural shock absorption in the forefoot.
- Ulcer prevention in diabetics: Adding protective padding to reduce risk of skin breakdown in high-pressure areas.
- Ankle and tendon injuries: Assisting in soft tissue healing by delivering natural growth factors within fat tissue.
Is Fat Augmentation Right for You?
Not every patient is a candidate. We will evaluate your symptoms, foot structure, and overall health to determine if this treatment is appropriate. Fat augmentation is most effective for patients with painful calluses, loss of natural padding, or chronic forefoot pain that has not improved with traditional care.
Interested in Learning More?
If you are struggling with painful calluses or chronic foot discomfort, talk with us about whether fat augmentation could be part of your treatment plan.
📞 Call us today at or ask your doctor at your next visit if fat augmentation is for you.
Our mission is to bring you the latest, most effective treatments to keep you moving comfortably.