What is the success rate of fat transfer to the face ?

In my opinion, when performed well, facial fat grafting is the best "permanent" filler (for most areas...especially the cheeks and midface). Certainly there is a bit of "art" involved, since you are correct in saying that some of the fat will dissolve after transplant. As a general statement, roughly 50% of the fat placed will dissolve over the first month of placement. Unfortunately there are a lot of factors that determine the success of transplant (overall health of the patient, method of fat processing, technique of the physician etc.). Most surgeons agree that the best fat for grafting should be taken from the torso (abdomen) or thighs. Fat from the face (ie neck) is thought to not transfer as well. In my practice I take extra time in consultation to thoroughly describe the pros/cons and theory behind fat grafting so that the patient truly understands what it entails. I would suggest that you proceed with a doctor that gives you the time to ask questions and, just as important, has lots of experience in this particular procedure (with relevant before/after photos). As in our practice, this procedure can be safely and comfortably performed in-office under local anesthesia with mild sedation. Best, Doc L.

The face is probably one of the best areas to perform fat transfer as it is very vascular and has a high rate of survival. However, fat grafting is variable and the percentage of take varies from each patient. You would likely get some permanent results and if you need more you can always repeat the process.

Thank you for your question in regards to fat transfer. There is not a guarentee that having a fat transfer to the face will have permanent results. Some of the fat will dissolve regardless, in addition to any weight gain/loss as well. To be sure what is best for you, see two or more board-certified plastic surgeons in your area for a full and complete evaluation to make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have surgery. I hope this helps.

What survives is based on your body itself and the type of harvesting methods. I suggest sculptra injections long term to maintain the fat with PRP. Please consult with an expert in fat transferring. Best, Dr. Emer.

Transferring fat is an excellent way to re-volumize the face. A youthful face is a full face, so adding volume, whether it be with the use of a temporary or a permanent filler, can provide aesthetically pleasing results. As you may already know, not all of the fat transferred will survive, so it is possible that you would want a secondary procedure. It is also ideal if you are at a stable weight (no significant anticipated weight loss or gain) as this can affect your results, too. 

Fat grafting to the face is a overall very successful and results in very natural results.  The volume grafting does dissipate over time but some of the fat, in the range of 50% is retained at one year or more.  Most patients benefit from two grafting procedures.  

Thank you for your question.  Because of the robust blood supply in the face fat grafting has a larger percentage take, upwards of 75% -90%. Fat grafting to the face is an excellent long-term option at facial rejuvenation but be sure to see a board certified plastic surgeon in consultation as a good surgical technique helps improve your grafting results.  

To call fat transfer to the face permanent is not an accurate term. Fat is used in the face, unlike most synthetic fillers, with the hope that it may be permanent. There is no guarantee that the fat injected will survive or, even if it initially does will persist over time. It very well may and that can be partially influenced by surgical technique and where it is placed. The cheeks, for example, has the highest success rate in the face while the mouth region has the poorest by far. You do fat transfer because you are willing to accept the gamble on its survival and retention and because it has advantages over other treatment options.

Fat injection is permanent. However, not all the fat you inject survives. I find that about 60-70% usually survives after the initial swelling goes down.  Best of luck.

Fat transfer to the face is one of the most predictably satisfying procedures I do, for both me and my patients.  The rate of successful, permanent fill is highly dependent upon surgeon expertise, the techniques used to harvest and process the fat to be transferred, and how "hospitable" the environment where the fat is injected.  For an experienced surgeon using best practices for harvesting, processing, and injecting into the face, the survival of the fat injected is expected to be 60-90%.  In any individual patient it is not possible to predict exactly, but it is usually on the higher end (at least 75%).  Other than a facelift, it is the most powerful tool in my armamentarium for facial aging.  It usually has a very positive effect on the overlying skin too, making it more youthful, dewy-looking, and bright.  Best wishes for a beautiful result, whichever procedure you choose!