Is 9 cc' s a conservative amount for fat transfer to cheeks and under eyes?

Question

Just found a plastic surgeon who will do the fat transfer. He said I had a negative vector under my eyes and correct that with a fat transfer. He told me can place 9cc's total under eyes, cheeks and a arch. I just want to look like my self just alittle refreshed. I dont want to look like maleficent or a chipmunk. Is 9ccs total too much?

Mark G. Albert, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi, 9cc is a reasonable amount to inject especially since we expect to lose 50-60% of the injected volume. There are a lot of variables to consider, and the number of injected CCs is usually determined during the procedure. I recommend seeing a board certified aesthetic plastic surgeon for this treatment.

Trevor M. Born, MD · Answer

Dear panabellaThe volumes for transfer can vary.  The amounts depend on the surgeon and your facial contour.  As long as you have discussed your goals with your surgeon - your results should be amnazing.With Warm RegardsTrevor M Born MD

Theda C. Kontis, MD · Answer

I routinely use fat transfer to the lower lids, either with or without fat removal, to restore the lower lid volume loss seen with aging.I am also conservative and use about 2-3cc for each lower lid--including the lateral arch, I think 9cc is a reasonable amount (FYI it is less than 2 teaspoons!). However, we usually advise patients that risks of fat transfer include loss of the fat, because not all that is transplanted survives. We assume there will be about a 50% "take". The final results should be evident at about 3-4 months.

Gilbert Lee, MD · Answer

Thank you for your questions. The amount of fat needed to treat areas depends on your specific face. Fat grafting is an excellent way to add volume and fill any defects that may be present but every patient is different in requirements of fat. If you are unsure, I recommend getting a second opinion with a board certified Plastic Surgeon who has experience in fat grafting. They will be able to assess your specific anatomy and help form a plan. In our office we offer 3D imaging to give our patients an accurate idea of what their final result will look like. Good luck!

Michael Zenn, MD · Answer

It depends, as always.  A severe negative vector may not be corrected with fat as it is soft and may does not provide the structural support.  With a slight vector, fat can make all the difference and I generally would use 3 - 4 cc per side and get about 80% take.  The more fat with less take runs the risk of lumps or cysts from non-take.  A surgeon familiar with fat grafting should be able to examine you and know what is needed.  Ask to see some pics of "similarly vectored" patients.  Hope that helps!Dr. Z

Is 9 cc' s a conservative amount for fat transfer to cheeks and under eyes?

Answers (5)