Is 20cc a reasonable amount for entire face fat transfer?

Question

I went through a fat transfer to my face in several spots. After the procedure, I was told they used 20cc and that that was "a lot" but from what I've read, that doesn't seem like much for an entire face. So I was honestly surprised to hear that 20cc was a lot. My two questions are: is 20cc generally considered a large amount for the entire face? and what is to be done in these cases? . Is there a standard practice around this and how long should one wait for another fat transfer?

Arnold Almonte, DO · Answer

It all depends on what you're trying to achieve. Fat can be injected into the cheeks, brows, temples, nasolabial folds, chins, lips, really anywhere that needs volume!  For a full face rejuvenation, I think it's a good amount, because it's important to remember that 25-30% of it gets resorbed by the body, so you do have to "over inject" today in order to achieve the desired result several weeks from now. This is why you need an experienced injector, one who can asses you and properly predict what you're going to need. Fat is superior to commercially produced fillers because not only does it provide volume, it also brings with it stem cells, and all the benefits they provide, fresher skin, healthier tissue, etc. With regards to repeat treatments, there is no set time frame. Everyone ages differently. It could be a year, it could be 5 years before you need your next treatment.  The key is maintaining good follow up appointments with your doctor. I wish you the best!

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your questions. With fat grafting, there is no standard by which to measure. It depends on the deficiencies you had and the areas you were trying to treat and how much. As well as the fact that some of the fat will absorb so cautious over-correction is usually appropriate. Depending on how many ares were treated (everyone has a different definition of "full face"), I do not think 20 cc is an unreasonable number....I have done more and I have done less. As for repeating a treatment, I would wait at least 12-18 months before repeating facial fat grafting. Good luck!

T.G. Khan, DO, FACS · Answer

if the fat is properly spun down and concentrated at the appropriate centrifuge speed, I feel that 20 mL injected into the face should be sufficient.

Walton Montegut, MD · Answer

Fat Transfer is a great procedure and it is different in every patient.  The amount that is needed depends on the areas that will be injected.  The volume that is needed for each face depends on the patient's individual anatomy, and what is youthful for that face.  And, each patient is unique.  20cc's may be the right amount for your face.  This is determined at the time of surgery.  The benefit of fat transfer is the added volume as well as the transfer of stem cells which enrich the skin as well.  This is the added benefit of doing fat transfer.I hope this helps.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Every patient is different. I have put in as little as 10-20 cc's and as much as 50-60cc's. It all depends upon the individual

Is 20cc a reasonable amount for entire face fat transfer?

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Is 20cc a reasonable amount for entire face fat transfer?

Answers (7)

Answer: Fat Transfer Amounts

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