Facial fat transfer survival rate and guessing outcome?

Question

I would like to know how much of the grafted fat survives by the end of fourth week and sixth week? Particularly upper eyelid area on average? I mean is there too much volume difference between first and third month(which is typically considered as final result)? Or most of the swelling and fat absorption should have been subsided by the end of first month? Thank you.

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Though the amount of tissue that survives is dependent on various factors, such as the patient’s age and health, the location of the transfer, and the technique used, the current scientific estimate is a 25-50% survival rate. Because of this, surgeons frequently inject more fat cells than necessary to counteract absorption. This can result in a more swollen appearance at first, which generally subsides over several weeks or months. 
I recommend scheduling an in-person consultation with an experienced, board-certified facial plastic surgeon. They will be able to answer any questions you have and inform you of what you may expect with your chosen procedure.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, major disadvantage of fat grafting is an unpredictable take, survival rate. Based on our experience of over 20 years, graft survival rate depends of the location as well as patient. We say to our patients that around 50% survives in buttocks and breasts (40-70), 30% in periorbital areas (cheek, around eyes, brows) and 15% around mouth and lips. In general,  areas that do not move very much (breasts oposite to mouth) have better graft survival rate. It takes 8-12 months, based on literature and our own experience, for fat grafts to stabilize and and result to mature. Hope this may help. Good luck.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

In general, approximately 70% of the transferred fat cells will persist, while the body will naturally absorb the remaining 30% during the initial weeks following the surgery when the cells have not yet settled. However, once the blood vessels have formed, the transplanted fat cells will remain in place, resulting in permanent outcomes (it can take up to a few months).

The surgeon's technique and the patient's aftercare can greatly influence the outcome.

I hope this helps,

Best of luck !

Randal Haworth

The surgeon's technique and the patient's aftercare can greatly influence the outcome.

I hope this helps,

Best of luck !

Randal Haworth

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

When your results stop changing overtime, then you can consider them final. It’s varies based on the multitude of variables.
Plastic surgeons typically do not do revisions within the first six months anyway so there’s no point in doing anything but waiting. At six months it is unlikely that waiting further is going to change the outcome.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

Facial fat transfer survival rate and guessing outcome?

Answers (4)