Complete Information About Facial Fat Injection
Fat injection and dermal fillers are cosmetic techniques used to eliminate skin wrinkles and lines and restore facial volume to a more natural state. Facial fat injection is a type of dermal filler in which the required fat is harvested from the individual’s own body and, after purification, is injected under the skin. In this article from Dr. Benyamin Rahmati’s website, we aim to introduce the fat injection procedure, its applications, how it is performed, its results, and other related information—so stay with us until the end.
Introduction to the Facial Fat Injection Method
As we age, the body produces less collagen, which leads to skin aging, wrinkles, and sagging. Facial fat injection, also known as fat transfer to the face, is a cosmetic surgical technique in which natural body fat is used to add volume to the face and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Compared to other dermal fillers, fat injection offers a more natural and organic approach since it utilizes the body’s own fat cells. This method is minimally invasive and has a relatively short recovery time. Approximately 50 to 70 percent of fat cells survive the transfer process, making the results long-lasting.
The use of fat injection in the face
You may wonder which areas of the face and what types of imperfections can be treated with fat injection. This method can be used for the following purposes:
Fat Injection for Slim Faces
One of the common applications of fat injection is to correct facial thinness. In faces that are overly slim, the cheekbones, jawline, or other areas are usually more pronounced. Fat injection can restore volume to these slim faces and enhance their aesthetic appearance. In such cases, fat may be injected into multiple facial areas. Anyone seeking a solution for wrinkles, hollow areas, or facial sagging can benefit from this method to restore lost volume. The ideal candidates for fat injection are those who are in overall good health and have a strong potential for recovery after the procedure. A crucial requirement for this treatment is having a sufficient amount of excess fat in other areas of the body so it can be harvested and injected under the facial skin.
Steps of Facial Fat Injection Procedure
The process of facial fat injection and skin rejuvenation involves several steps that must be carried out in certified medical centers and reputable cosmetic clinics.
Facial Assessment
First, the physician carefully examines the areas of the face where fat is intended to be injected. Strategic points on the face are selected as injection sites, and photos are taken of these areas. At this stage, the doctor also determines how much fat is needed for the procedure.
Fat Harvesting
As mentioned earlier, in this method, the required fat is extracted from the patient’s own body. During this stage, liposuction is used to remove excess fat from areas such as the abdomen, flanks, thighs, and similar regions.
Fat purification
The harvested fat from body tissues contains blood and other impurities. In this stage, centrifugation is performed to separate fat cells and stem cells from other materials, so they can be used in the next step.
Fat Injection
After purification, the fat cells are injected by the physician under the skin in the targeted facial area. Fine and thin needles are used for this purpose. Local anesthetics are applied during the procedure, which typically takes between 30 minutes to one hour. Afterward, a recovery period follows, and the final results of the fat injection gradually become visible.
Post-Fat Injection Care
After undergoing fat injection and transfer, several precautions must be observed to minimize potential side effects:
- Avoid rubbing or applying pressure to the injection area.
- Depending on the extent of treatment, swelling and bruising in the treated area may last for 7 to 14 days.
- The area from which the fat was harvested should be gently washed and dried during the initial days after extraction.
- Clean the injection site gently using mild cleansers, and avoid using allergenic or cosmetic products.
- Generally, you may resume physical activities such as exercise two weeks after the procedure, but you should consult your physician about this.
- Applying cold compresses during the first days after injection helps reduce bruising and swelling. However, never place ice directly on the skin; wrap it in a clean cloth first.
- You may return to work 3 to 7 days after facial fat injection, depending on your personal preference, as some people may want to wait until visible effects have fully subsided.
How Long Does It Take for the Face to Look Natural After Fat Injection?
One of the most common questions about facial fat injection is how long it takes for the healing process to complete and the face to return to its natural appearance. It’s important to know that swelling and sensitivity in the injection area are normal reactions. The time needed for full recovery depends on your body’s system, but generally it takes between two weeks to one month for the face to look natural again.
Cost of Fat Injection
There is no fixed price for facial fat injection, as the cost depends on various factors such as the technique used, the timing of the procedure, and your city of residence. Additionally, the physician performing the fat injection plays a significant role in determining the final cost. It’s important to note that health insurance typically does not cover the cost of facial fat injections. Keep in mind that the reputation of the clinic and the qualifications of the physician are far more important than the cost itself.
Fat injection durability in the face
Fat grafting in the face is known for its long-lasting results. A portion of the injected fat is reabsorbed by the body during the first few weeks after injection. However, the fat that remains after 6 weeks is considered permanent. This retained fat integrates into the facial tissue and develops its own blood supply.
The long-term durability of fat injection results depends on your body and genetics. Over time, due to aging and the natural degeneration process, even the injected fat may gradually be absorbed. Nonetheless, results typically last between 5 to 10 years.
Side Effects of Facial Fat Injection
Since the fat used for injection is taken from the patient’s own body, fat transfer is considered a safe procedure with minimal risk of serious complications.
However, like any medical or cosmetic procedure, fat injection may cause certain side effects, including:
- Swelling and tenderness at the injection site (usually resolves within a few days)
- Facial asymmetry due to uneven fat absorption (can be corrected with additional sessions)
- Infection at the injection site if sterile techniques are not properly followed
Fat injection results
Choosing the right doctor for facial fat injection
In this article, we introduced facial fat injection as a method for reducing wrinkles and rejuvenating the skin, and we provided essential information about the procedure.
When choosing your doctor, it’s crucial to consider their skill, credentials, and experience—not just the cost.
Undergoing this procedure in unlicensed or unqualified centers can be extremely risky and lead to several complications.
Dr. Benyamin Rahmati is one of the most reputable cosmetic surgeons with extensive experience in rhinoplasty, blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), temporal lift, Botox, fat injection, chin implants, and various other aesthetic surgeries.
For facial fat injection, Dr. Rahmati is one of the best choices to achieve optimal results while minimizing possible side effects.
