How long does a facial fat graft last?

Question

Kimberly Butterwick, MD · Answer

While every patient is different, most fat grafts can last for up to 3 years in the face or longer. This is longer than any other dermal filler currently on the market. I typically perform a fat transfer procedure and freeze extra fat in a special freezer, which is a certified tissue bank.  We then perform enhancement injections with the frozen fat once per year or so for up to 3 years. With these enhancement injections in the office, your result will often last for years, often 5 years or longer.  However, only 40% of fat grafts tend to survive, which is why I usually add enhancements at regular intervals. Another advantage to facial fat grafts is that they are non-allergenic because your own fat is used. We do have to perform a mini-liposuction procedure in order to extract the fat, but this can be done under local anesthesia. Please find a board-certified dermatologist to find out if you are a candidate for facial fat grafting to restore volume and youth to your face and hands.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Facial fat grafting procedures have become very popular in the past few years, because, if done correctly, they can produce a subtle or dramatic result that is permanent.  Facial fat grafting tends to have a higher percentage of the fat survive than does grafting in other areas of the body.  Fat grafting permanence usually reveals itself in about 3 months in uncomplicated healing.Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Julie Khanna, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Good Morning, thank you for your question.  Fat grafting can be a great way to enhance or add volume to an area with a long lasting and, after full healing, a permanent result.  That being said, it often can involve more than one procedure to reach your goal (due to natural re-absorption of some of the fat after the procedure) and, as always, aging keeps happening.  Always consult with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon to help you reach your goal safely and with a great, long lasting result.
Best of Luck,
Dr. K.

How long does a facial fat graft last?

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How long does a facial fat graft last?

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Everything you need to know about Facial Fat Transfer

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.