1. Fat is taken from the patient's abdomen, hips or thighs via a collection tube.

2. The collection tube gathers the fat in the area between the skin and the muscle tissue.

3. The fat is injected in the buttocks to enlarge and reshape.

4. During injection, doctors run the risk of venturing into the muscles, causing large veins to tear, and allowing fat to enter the bloodstream. Surgeons well-trained in the procedure know the safest area for injecting the fat is just below the skin.

5. Once in the bloodstream, the fat travels to the heart and lungs, creating blockages that can lead to death within minutes.