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Fat grafting to face migrates to other areas?

20s, I want volume to forehead and cheeks since it's so flat but i hear about patients where the fat migrates from forehead and down to the eyes causing puffy eyes and fat on cheeks which moved to jawline causing sagging. Why is it happening? Why does it "take" irregularly and lead to asymmetry? This is worrisome and makes me want to try fillers instead

Doctor Answers 4

April 13th, 2016

Fat transfer migrating

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No, fat transfer to the face does not migrate. It is one of the safest, most natural ways to add volume to the face and is an excellent option for people of all ages. Younger patients can enhance their cheekbones or lips with fat that is natural and long lasting. I add a fat transfer to my clients that are getting a facelift quite often. Discuss options with a board certified plastic surgeon to find out what would be best for you.
Edward E. Dickerson, IV, MD


Fayetteville Facial Plastic Surgeon
4.7 out of 5 stars 127 reviews

April 5th, 2016

Does fat transfer migrate

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No, fat transfer to the face does not migrate. In my opinion, it is one of the safest, most natural ways to apply volume to the face. 

Juan Diego Mejia, MD
Colombia Plastic Surgeon

April 6th, 2016

Fat Grafting to Face

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Fat transfer from the tummy or thighs to the face is an excellent option for people of all ages. Younger patients can enhance their cheekbones or lips with fat that is natural and long lasting. As we age, our face deflates, losing fat, causing sagging skin to look more obvious. Fat grafting to the face rejuvenates the face with biological filler, your own fat! I frequently use fat transfer to my facelift patients to enhance and prolong the result. It stays where I put it, does not move.Depending on the individual, one treatment does the trick, but sometimes secondary touch ups are needed. Be sure to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. Good luck!
Robert M. Tornambe, MD

Robert M. Tornambe, MD
New York Plastic Surgeon
5.0 out of 5 stars 33 reviews

April 5th, 2016

Fat injections

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Fat injections do not migrate. Swelling can happen in areas more dependent initially after a procedure. Aging over time can lead to soft tissue descent due to deflation or worsening skin laxity.

Learn more: https://www.stevenwallachmd.com/non-invasive-procedures/fat-injections/

Steven Wallach, MD

Steven Wallach, MD
New York Plastic Surgeon
4.2 out of 5 stars 30 reviews

These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.