Fat Transfer

Fat transfer, also called fat grafting or autologous fat transfer, involves removing a small amount of fat from another area of your body, processing it, and carefully injecting it into areas of the face that have lost volume due to aging.

Donor fat typically comes from your abdomen or inner thighs, as those are areas where the fat is usually available and suitable for use in the face. The fat is processed to create smaller and more consistent particles in the form of microfat or nanofat. Then the fat is injected into the skin, usually in the mid-cheek or where it’s needed.

Fat transfer is commonly used to restore volume to the cheeks, temples, under-eye hollows, jawline, and other areas where facial fullness has diminished. It may also be used to enhance facial contours or improve the appearance of certain scars.

While some of the transferred fat is naturally reabsorbed during healing, the fat that successfully establishes a blood supply can provide long-lasting results. Many patients enjoy improvements for years, especially if they maintain a stable weight.

Both treatments have advantages. Fat transfer offers the benefit of using your own tissue and may provide longer-lasting volume, while dermal fillers are less invasive and provide immediate results with minimal downtime. Dr. Johnson will help determine which option is best for your goals.

Most patients experience swelling and bruising in both the donor area and the treated facial areas for one to two weeks. As healing progresses, the transferred fat settles into place and the final results become more apparent over several months.

Yes. When performed with careful technique and artistic precision, fat transfer restores youthful contours without creating an overfilled appearance. The goal is subtle, balanced enhancement that complements your natural facial features.