50 ml fat was transferred. Will I end up having a balloon face? (Photos)

Question

During the discussion doctor said over all i need 20ml fat bt he transfered 30ml left side n 20 ml right side. fat ws nt spinned bt used gravity proccedure to seperated the fluid. he said fat ws grafted in 2 layers. inside the muscle and on the tissue bed to retain more fat. its been 7 days stil i look the same as on first day. no absorption. Is this normal? i m worried. chin liposuction ws akso done.my doctor is also a plastic surgery professor in a government institute.

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

For a thin face, 50cc of fat can be transferred throughout the face.  We usually expect about 50% of the fat to be resorbed.  And at one week you also have some significant swelling.  So much of what you are seeing now will go away.  You had a nice shape to the face before so not sure what the goal of your fat transfer was.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

It may take up to a month or more forswelling to subside after fat grafting. If you're still unhappy afterthat, I'd suggest finding an expert for treatment options. Best, Dr. Emer.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs and I am sorry that your current results have caused you concern.  After any surgical procedure the operated upon tissues will have a significant amount of soft tissue swelling that will mask your long term results.  Additionally, fat graft "take" often requires 6-8 months to see what will survive. I know waiting is difficult but allow yourself a bit more time to have your results mature.  Hang in there!

50 ml fat was transferred. Will I end up having a balloon face? (Photos)

Answers (3)