Is facial fat transfer permanent once the fat "takes"? When would I start to see the final results after surgery?

Question

I understand that much of the fat doesn't survive, but once it takes to that area, is it truly permanent? And when will I start to see the final results after surgery?

David M. Kowalczyk, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

Good Afternoon! Facial fat transfer is a great way to improve volume within the face. I tell my patients that 30-50% of the fat transferred, on average, will not survive. Therefore, we must overinflate the area to anticipate for this. I always save fat as well to reinject in any irregularities after several weeks. The longevity of fat is about 5-10 years though this is debated. The final results show themselves in many cases by 3-6 months. Hope this clarifies things!

Robert T. Buchanan, MD (retired) · Answer

First, if the transfer is done by an expert, you should have at least 75-80% or more of the fat survive. Most edema and fat absorption occurs in the first few months, so you will start to see the final result by then. Any fat remaining after 4 months is essentially permanent. The problem is that normal fat in the area atrophies over time, so nothing is really permanent.

Is facial fat transfer permanent once the fat "takes"? When would I start to see the final results after surgery?

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Is facial fat transfer permanent once the fat "takes"? When would I start to see the final results after surgery?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Facial Fat Transfer

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.