Facial Fat Injection (Fat Grafting)

What is facial fat injection surgery?
Facial fat injection, also known as fat grafting, is a procedure in which fat tissue taken from another area of the body is injected into areas of the face that need additional volume. Significant swelling and bruising may occur during the first weeks after the procedure. Over time, some of the injected fat tissue will be absorbed, and approximately 30% of the transferred fat may remain. For this reason, slightly more fat may be injected during the procedure. The final result generally becomes apparent within 6-9 months, and an additional session may be required if necessary.

What is the purpose of facial fat injection surgery?
The purpose of facial fat injection is to increase the thickness and volume of the facial skin and underlying tissues, rejuvenate the skin with fat cells rich in stem cells, and provide fullness.

Is facial fat injection a difficult procedure, and how long does it take?
Facial fat injection is not a difficult or painful procedure. It is performed under general anesthesia and takes approximately 1 hour.

How is facial fat injection surgery performed?
During the procedure, fat tissue is generally taken from areas such as the abdomen or thighs using thin cannulas. The collected fat is then processed and injected into the areas of the face where additional volume is required. Fat may be injected into areas such as the cheeks, forehead, eyebrow area, under-eye hollows, nasolabial folds, lips and chin. After the appropriate amount of fat is injected, the procedure is completed.

What are the possible risks and complications of facial fat injection surgery?
As with any surgery, there are risks such as bleeding, bruising-swelling, asymmetry and scarring after facial fat injection surgery. These risks will be minimized as much as possible with the appropriate approach of your surgeon and by the patient strictly following the recommendations.

Are there any side effects of facial fat injection surgery?
Facial fat injection surgery does not have any specific side effects, and the surgical risk is not higher than that of other aesthetic surgeries.

Will there be scars after facial fat injection surgery?
Since facial fat injection is performed using very thin cannulas, it generally does not leave visible scars on the face.

How long do the effects of facial fat injection last, and will I need another procedure in the future?
Some of the fat tissue injected into the face will be absorbed. Since it is not possible to know exactly in advance how much of the fat tissue will survive, the patient is evaluated at approximately the 6th month. In patients who wish, the procedure may be repeated as an additional session to increase the amount of retained fat and improve satisfaction.

What should be done before facial fat injection surgery?
Before facial fat injection surgery, our doctor evaluates the patient and a plan is made regarding the procedure to be performed. The surgery date is decided. As with all other surgeries, smoking should be stopped 2 weeks before surgery. Blood-thinning medications, herbal teas, vitamins and weight-loss medications should not be used starting 1 week before surgery. Only medications that the patient needs to use because of existing diseases should be taken with the doctor’s knowledge. You will be informed about how many hours you need to fast on the day of surgery.

Why is it important to stop smoking before facial fat injection surgery?
Since smoking significantly affects wound healing, it is strongly recommended that you do not smoke for 15 days before and 15 days after surgery. The patient should be aware that smoking is one of the main causes of poor healing.

How should I sleep after facial fat injection surgery?
In order to prevent swelling in the facial area from increasing and to allow it to decrease over time, you should sleep with your head elevated using 2-3 pillows. After approximately 3 weeks, you may sleep in any position.

How is dressing performed after facial fat injection surgery?
No special dressing is generally required after facial fat injection surgery. Facial care products recommended by your doctor are generally sufficient.

When can I return to work after facial fat injection surgery?
There will be swelling during the first 3 days after facial fat injection surgery, and rest is recommended. However, most of the swelling will have decreased within approximately 7 days. In most cases, completing 10 days is sufficient before going out in public and returning to work.

When can I start exercising after facial fat injection surgery?
For the first 3 days after facial fat injection surgery, you are generally advised to rest, walk around the house and perform simple daily activities. After 3 days, you may take short and careful walks outside. However, lifting weights and strenuous exercise are not recommended during the first weeks. Generally, all types of sports activities are allowed after 2 months.

Will I need to wear a facial compression garment after facial fat injection?
A facial compression garment is generally not recommended after facial fat injection.

Is facial fat injection painful?
Most patients state that they experience little or no pain after facial fat injection. However, mild tightness and pain may still be expected in the treated areas. Regular use of the prescribed antibiotics and painkillers is generally sufficient.

When can I take a shower after facial fat injection?
During the first 3-4 days after the procedure, the face should not be wet. Gentle face washing is generally allowed after 4 days, and showering is generally allowed after 7 days. Extremely hot or extremely cold water is not recommended during the early period.

When can I swim in the sea or a swimming pool after facial fat injection?
It is recommended to wait 2 months before swimming in the sea or a swimming pool.

When can I travel after facial fat injection?
Short-distance road travel can generally be made after 4 days. For a 1-2 hour flight, it is appropriate to wait until 7 days have passed.

How long should sexual intercourse be avoided after facial fat injection?
During sexual intercourse, blood pressure increases, which may cause unwanted bleeding after surgery. Therefore, it is recommended to wait 2 weeks before sexual intercourse.

When can I start sunbathing or use a solarium after facial fat injection?
After facial fat injection, sunbathing and solarium use are not appropriate for the first 3-4 months because the treated areas may be affected and the scars may become darker.

How much does facial fat injection cost?
In order to provide clear information about the cost of facial fat injection, the patient’s complaints and aesthetic expectations need to be evaluated objectively, and the procedures required need to be determined. Pricing information will be provided after the examination.

If you have any questions regarding surgeries or would like to be evaluated by Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Specialist Op. Dr. Fatih Söylemez, you can request an appointment via WhatsApp or Contact Form now.