Fat Transfer for Lips: Worth It?

Fat grafting to the lips, when it works, looks great.  The problem is neither the surgeon nor the patient knows if it will work perfectly.  There is some form of absorption, usually 30-50% and risk of asymmetry is high and usually we don't know the asymmetry exists until 4-6 weeks after surgery because of the swelling.  If a reliable source of permanent lip augmentation is desired, I would consider permalip lip implants.  They are permanent, take less than 30 min to place, downtime lasts about 7 days (about the same as filler) and, best of all, if you don't like, you have peace of mind knowing the procedure is completely reversible unlike all of the other options.  

Fat transfer to the lips is a good option, but to enhance the chances of the fat surviving in its new environment, stem cell assisted fat transfer may be the way to go. 

Fat transfer is a great treatment that can be used in a variety of ways.  Fat has become a vital part of facial rejuvenation.  I use fat in almost every facelift or eyelid surgery that I do because of the natural and youthful appearance that it can add to the results of your surgery. 
Lip augmentation has become very popular over the past few years.  When lip augmentations are done correctly they can add a very youthful, attractive appearance to the face.  One of the common complaints of lip injections is that they tend to go away faster then patients would like. 

Fat is a great alternative to fillers as it is going to last much longer.  The benefit of the fat is that it is going to last for years to come rather than the six to nine months that the majority of fillers last. 

I would not say that they will replace fillers as fillers and fat all have their place. Fillers are a great start for patients so that they can get feel for the rejuvenation that they can expect from adding volume.  Also fillers are a great quick fix as they can be done in the office in as little as ten minutes. 

Fat grafting give patients more options if they want a more long-term solution or I have many patients that like fat because it is natural and from their own body. 

I hope this helps, please consult your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.