Facial fat transfer is an autologous procedure in which fat is harvested from one area of your body (typically the abdomen, flanks, or thighs), processed, and injected into facial areas to restore volume and improve contour. It addresses hollowing in the cheeks, temples, tear troughs, and nasolabial folds by using your own living tissue rather than synthetic fillers.

Candidates are generally those with volume loss in the face due to aging, genetics, or previous procedures, and who have adequate fat deposits for harvest. Ideal candidates have realistic expectations and understand that results depend on fat cell survival rates, which vary individually. A consultation with a qualified surgeon will help determine if you have sufficient donor fat and appropriate facial anatomy for transfer.

The procedure is performed under local or general anesthesia and typically takes one to two hours. First, fat is gently harvested from the donor site using a small-bore cannula. The fat is then processed and carefully injected into targeted facial areas to restore volume and smooth creases.

Recovery varies depending on whether only facial sites or both donor and facial areas are treated. Swelling and bruising peak within the first few days and gradually subside over one to two weeks. Most people can return to light activities within a week, though strenuous exercise and contact sports are typically restricted for several weeks.

Results appear gradually as swelling resolves over the first few weeks, with final results visible after about three months. Not all transferred fat survives; typical survival rates mean some volume loss occurs, and a qualified surgeon may overcorrect slightly to account for this. Results can last several years, though some fat resorption is expected over time.