How long does fat transfer to the face generally last and about how expensive is it?

Thank you for your question. Fat transfer to the face is generally very long lasting...years.  It slows down the aging process of the face associated with volume loss but does not "stop the clock."  How long the results last are dependent on many factors not associated with the fat grafting such as the amount of stress, sun exposure, and smoking that you are exposed to as well as your inherent genetics and facial structure.  A significant percentage of the fat in the 50-80% range survives permanently.  How much is used depends on you facial structure and is part of the art of aesthetic surgery...too much or too little are not ideal, you want it just right.  The procedure is very safe and effective and can be performed under local anesthesia in the office or in the OR as part of another procedure. All parts of the face can be treated effectively except the forehead, which can be problematic at times.  The cost is approximately $2,000-4,000 depending on what areas are treated.  All the best.

   In general, fat grafting has a few advantages.  A greater volume can be transferred than would be feasible with fillers.  The nasolabial area can be filled along with the marionette lines, the cheeks, areas around the malar bags, and the tear troughs among others.  The procedure can be performed under local but with more areas than just one or two, I think the procedure is far more comfortable with sedation or general anesthesia.  The cost probably depends upon the number of areas and time needed for the procedures.  Anywhere from $3000 to $7000 is probably reasonable, depending upon number of areas treated and anesthesia required.  Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

Fat transfer to the face is an excellent and long lasting treatment to address facial volume loss that occurs with aging.  Harvested fat can be used to fill the nasolabial folds, cheeks, malar eminences (cheek bone area), jawline, marionette lines (corners of the mouth), tear troughs, and temples.  After several weeks (once swelling subsides and some absorption has occured), the fat that remains will theoretically "live" in it's new location for life (though with weight changes, the appearance of your face can change as well).  In terms of longevity, it is an excellent treatment for facial volume loss.  I do not store the fat after the areas have been treated.  Fat grafting can be performed under local anesthesia in the office.  However, if your pain tolerance is very low or you are having several areas treated, you may be most comfortable with sedation/ light anesthesia.  Cost varies depending on location- starting in our office at ~$3500 with local anesthesia (anesthesia and facility fees are additional).