Facial Fat Grafting (Fat Transfer)
Volume is youthful. But as we age, most of us tend to lose the fullness and softness of facial volume.
Lost volume can be replaced using injectable fillers like Juvéderm, or through the use of fat grafting, with very good results. Most facelift procedures benefit from the softness imparted by volume.By itself, or in combination with other procedures, the addition of volume is a significant part of cosmetic facial rejuvenation.
Fat grafting is often performed with other procedures such as a facelift to enhance overall facial rejuvenation. But it can also be done on it's own.
Off-the-shelf fillers are consistent and convenient but typically last about a year. Fat grafting, which uses your own living cells, can last three times longer, or more. Harvested fat also contains stem cells, believed to have skin-rejuvenating properties.
Who Is a Candidate
- Loss of facial volume from aging or weight changes
- Shallow contours or grooves (e.g., under-eye hollows, cheeks, or temples)
- Desire for a natural option using your own tissue
- Overall good health and stable weight
Consultation
- Review of medical history, current medications, and allergies
- Examination of facial proportions and skin quality
- Identification of potential donor sites (abdomen, flanks, thighs)
- Discussion of goals, options, and whether combining procedures is recommended
The Procedure
- Performed on an outpatient basis under anesthesia
- Fat is gently removed from a donor area using liposuction
- Harvested fat is processed and purified
- Fat is injected into targeted areas using a micro-droplet technique
- Touch-up procedures may be recommended for optimal results
Benefits
- Restores youthful volume and smoother contours
- Uses your own tissue—no synthetic filler
- Potential rejuvenating effects from naturally occurring stem cells
- Longer-lasting results compared to traditional fillers
- Can be combined with other facial procedures
Recovery
- Swelling and bruising for 1–2 weeks is common
- Most daily activities resume within several days
- Donor sites may feel sore, similar to liposuction recovery
- Final results appear over several months as swelling subsides
- Stable weight helps preserve results
Risks and Considerations
- Asymmetry or contour irregularities
- Prolonged swelling or bruising
- Infection or oil cysts
- Fat resorption over time
- Possible need for additional procedures
Why Choose CHRISTUS Health
At CHRISTUS Health, you receive patient-centered care in accredited facilities from a team dedicated to safety, clear communication, and natural-looking results.
We tailor every treatment plan to your unique anatomy and goals, guiding you through each step—from consultation to recovery—so you feel confident in both your care and your results.