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Facial Volume Enhancement
Fat Transfer
Fat transfer, or fat grafting, is a surgical procedure that permanently restores fat in the face. Fat is typically harvested from the abdomen, flanks, or hips with liposuction. The fat is spun in a centrifuge, then injected carefully beneath the skin in areas where aging and atrophy have caused hollowing. Fat transfer is frequently combined with other surgical procedures such as:
- Fat transfer with facelift – for a youthful restoration of the skin and contours of the face
- Fat transfer with eyelid surgery – for a soft, natural, and replenished appearance
- Fat transfer with mini facelift – for a more conservative and long lasting approach to facial rejuvenation
Patients who are candidates for fat transfer will have moderate to severe volume loss in the face, may be interested in additional surgical procedures, and are looking for long term results.
If you are interested in facial volume enhancement but aren’t sure about undergoing surgery, we also offer non-surgical options.
*Individual results may vary.
What areas of the face can be treated with facial fat transfer?
Facial fat transfer can restore volume in areas such as the cheeks, temples, under-eye hollows, nasolabial folds, lips, and jawline. It can also help improve facial asymmetry or age-related volume loss.
Is facial fat transfer a better choice than dermal fillers?
Neither option is universally better. Facial fat transfer may be preferable for patients seeking longer-lasting volume using their own tissue. Dermal fillers may be better for those who want a less invasive treatment with little downtime and more temporary, adjustable results.
Can facial fat transfer replace the need for fillers?
In some cases, yes. Facial fat transfer can provide lasting volume enhancement, potentially reducing or eliminating the need for regular filler treatments. However, some patients still choose fillers later for smaller adjustments or additional refinement.
How can I get ready for facial fat transfer?
Your surgeon will provide specific instructions that may include not smoking, drinking alcohol, and taking certain medications or supplements that can increase bleeding. But you should not stop prescribed medications without medical guidance.
How long does facial fat transfer take?
The procedure typically takes about one to several hours, depending on how much fat is harvested, the number of areas treated, and whether facial fat transfer is combined with another procedure.
What anesthesia is used for facial fat transfer?
Facial fat transfer may be performed using local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. The appropriate option depends on the extent of treatment, whether other procedures are being performed, and your surgeon’s recommendations.
How does the surgeon decide which donor area to use?
The surgeon chooses a donor area based on where you have enough available fat and where liposuction can be performed safely. Common donor areas include the abdomen, thighs, hips, and flanks.
Will liposuction of the donor area leave scars?
Liposuction requires small incisions, so tiny scars are possible. These incisions are usually placed in discreet locations and tend to fade over time.
Will removing fat from the donor area change how that area looks?
It can create a subtle change in contour, depending on how much fat is removed. Because facial fat transfer usually requires only a modest amount of donor fat, the change may be relatively minor.
What should I expect during the first few days after facial fat transfer?
Swelling and bruising are common, and the treated areas may initially look fuller than expected. You may also experience tenderness at the donor site, and your surgeon may recommend limiting certain activities while healing begins.
When can I resume normal activities after facial fat transfer?
Many patients can return to lighter daily activities within several days, although swelling and bruising may take longer to improve. Avoid strenuous exercise and more demanding activities until your surgeon clears you.
How long does it take for facial fat transfer results to settle?
Initial swelling often improves over several weeks, but it can take a few months for the transferred fat to stabilize and for the final result to become more predictable.
Can facial fat transfer be repeated?
Yes. Facial fat transfer can be repeated if you want additional volume or refinement. Your surgeon will typically wait until the initial results have stabilized before determining whether another procedure would be beneficial.
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