Fat transfer to jawline - is it a good idea or will it sag over time?

Question

Hi, I am 26 years old male and I have rather narrow jaw. I already used fillers to contour the jaw but I want something more permanent and less invasive than implants. Is fat grafting to the jawline a good idea or it will sag over time and will require surgery to remove the fat?

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. A facial fat transfer can increase volume along the jawline to create a well-defined contour. The transferred fat often improves the quality of skin as well, rather than sagging over time. The results of this procedure are also more long-lasting than dermal fillers and are typically maintained for three years or even longer for some patients. 
I recommend scheduling an in-person consultation with an experienced, board-certified facial plastic surgeon. They will be able to review your filler history, discuss your goals and concerns with you, and help you decide on the best course of action.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

For a more defined jawline to strengthen your profile (and help prevent the dreaded jawline "jowl" sagging), we use injectable fillers like Revanesse Versa - a filler known to limit swelling and give subtle, soft enhancements - or Radiesse. Using a cannula to limit pain and swelling, we inject on the bone in strategic points to get more lift and shaping, resulting in a more contoured lower face and defined, structured jawline. I would suggest getting a formal evaluation with a facial sculpting expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Providing that fat graft placement is done by an expert, a  board certified plastic surgeon with long experience in facial fat grafting, this can be very rewarding procedure. Fat grafts are placed close to the bone, possibly subperiosteal, so that sagging is unlikely. Hope this helps. Good luck.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

If done appropriately, fat transfer doesn’t migrate and will rejuvenate you and give you the appearance of lifting as opposed to sagging.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Fat is imprecise, unpredictable and unforgiving in comparison to fillers.
Grafts are limited where they can be injected and esp where the fat will survive. The goal of this type of treatment is to mimic a larger bone structure. Fillers can be injected right on the bone. Grafted fat needs to be surrounded by host tissue in order to survive. They are not the same and for what you are doing fillers are superior. 
If you opt for fat grafting be very selective in regards to provider and consider a conservative approach with second round of grafts in the future if needed. Removing grafted fat in that area is not simple if you don’t like the outcome. 
Fillers are simply superior for this type of work.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom,MD

Fat transfer to jawline - is it a good idea or will it sag over time?

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Fat transfer to jawline - is it a good idea or will it sag over time?

Answers (5)

Answer: Fat transfer

Answer: Fat transfer

Answer: Facial fat transfer

Answer: Facial fat transfer

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Recommended reading

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.