How Does Facial Fat Grafting Work?

If you’re losing facial volume, it might feel like your only option is to replace it with dermal fillers and other injectables. But for some people, injectables might not offer the best solution because there’s a slight risk for reactions. Others may be hesitant to turn to injectables, as they’re nervous about looking too “artificial” or overdone.

So is there another way to reverse the signs of aging without risking allergic reactions or looking like someone other than yourself?

The answer could be facial fat grafting. This procedure is an innovative procedure that can replace lost facial volume with your body’s own fat. That means there’s no risk for allergic reactions or rejection; plus, facial fat grafting helps preserve your appearance so you look like you – only younger!

How Facial Fat Grafting Works

Facial fat grafting works in two steps: 1) Removal of fat from the tummy or thighs, and 2) Injection of the fat into key facial areas. During the first step, your plastic surgeon will remove some fat from the selected harvest area, which many patients are pleased to discover provides some body contouring benefits. The fat is cleansed and prepared for the second step; at this point, the fat is injected into facial areas that have seen significant volume loss.

Most patients may see some swelling after the procedure, but this usually only lasts for a couple of weeks. You should start to see results once the swelling goes down; your final results will usually be visible after four to five weeks. Facial fat grafting results can last for a couple of years, making it an excellent procedure for patients looking for a more permanent solution to volume loss than what can be achieved with injectables.

Combining Facial Fat Grafting With Other Procedures

Facial fat grafting can be done as a solo procedure; it’s also commonly done in conjunction with a facelift procedure. If you’re curious to see if facial fat grafting is right for you, schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Kyle Song to find out more.