Edema after fat transfer, when would it go away completely? What can I do to help? Supplements?

Question

I had fat transfer 6 weeks ago. At first I developed a moon face. As it subsided, the swelling settled in my jowls and jaw.. I look boxy with a big chin. Few days ago, feeling depressed I had a long cry in bed, and to my surprise I woke up the next day to a beautiful V shaped face. But that didn't last long as the swelling came back the next day and I look squarish and saggy again. I suppose the tears reduced the sodium in my body, which temporarily took away the edema? I love salty foods.

Steven H. Dayan, MD · Answer

Dear lululusan,
Thank you for your question. Facial swelling after fat transfer can take up to weeks to months to resolve. It can also fluctuate in the healing process and is sensitive to factors such as heat and salt intake. It also depends on how much fat injection your surgeon performed. I recommend you call or see you surgeon to further discuss any persistent concerns. They may be able to offer additional treatment options to help decrease the swelling sooner. Drinking lots of water and avoiding high salt intake will also help keep your swelling down.

Karol A. Gutowski, MD, FACS · Answer

Salt may cause you to retain fluid but crying will not help the swelling, which is normal after any surgery. This is best discussed with the surgeon who did the procedure.

Harrison C. Putman III, MD (retired) · Answer

It certainly sounds like you have some edema from salt retention, but it has been my experience that results from fat transfer are not fully apparent until about 3 to 6 months or even more if a large volume fat transfer was performed. I would consult with your surgeon about this, but try to avoid salt intake as much as possible to see if that helps. Good luck!

Edema after fat transfer, when would it go away completely? What can I do to help? Supplements?

Answers (3)