Because volume loss is a natural part of aging, fat injections offer a way to restore volume using your body’s own fat. After gentle liposuction from areas like the tummy or hips, the fat is purified and re-injected into areas such as the cheeks, chin, and lips. About 20-30% of the fat remains permanently, making this a natural, long-lasting way to enhance facial features. Fat injections can be done alone or alongside other treatments, such as facelifts or laser procedures, for a more comprehensive rejuvenation.
Fat transfer is particularly appealing because it’s natural, adds restorative benefits to the skin (thanks to stem cells in the fat), and lasts longer than most fillers. It’s an especially effective option for people with global volume loss who want to avoid synthetic products. That said, it’s not always a perfect substitute for fillers. Fillers can offer more precision and lifting power in areas that need fine-tuned shaping or where more structure is required.
The procedure itself is relatively straightforward. The fat is harvested using gentle liposuction, typically from the tummy, flanks, or hips, and then processed to concentrate the most viable fat cells. These fat cells are then re-injected using small, smooth-tipped cannulas. The amount of fat injected depends on the areas being treated and the patient’s anatomy. Some patients may need additional treatments to reach their desired volume if their fat retention is on the lower end, which is totally normal. Ultimately, fat transfer can be a fantastic solution for creating softer, natural results with added skin benefits.
