Fat Grafting / Fat Transfer

Although patients can see some immediate improvement, it takes about six months for the final results to develop. Initial results will be affected by swelling and bruising, and it takes time for the transferred fat cells to settle into the skin. Some of these fat cells will be reabsorbed but this will not negatively impact the results. More fat can be injected as needed.

The number of necessary fat transfer sessions varies depending on the size of the treatment area and degree of volume loss. Most patients only need one fat transfer treatment for the face. Multiple treatments can also combat the fat cells that were reabsorbed after the procedure.

The time it takes to perform fat grafting or fat transfer procedures at The Cohen Clinic varies depending on different treatment areas. Small areas like the under-eyes or cheeks only take an hour. The details of your individualized procedure will be discussed at your consultation with Dr. Cohen.

After fat grafting or fat transfer procedures at The Cohen Clinic, it’s important that patients rest and recover for about two weeks. Although light activities can be resumed after one week, strenuous exercise and heavy lifting must be avoided for at least two weeks. Patients should also sleep with their heads elevated after a facial fat transfer.

Yes! Aside from the small amount of fat cells that might not survive the transfer, the results of this procedure are permanent. Because the patient’s own fat cells are used, they will exist naturally in the area they were transferred to, providing long-lasting enhancement.

During fat transfer at Cohen Clinic for Plastic Surgery, we typically take fat from the thighs or abdomen. It’s then purified and used to add volume to the face.

Absolutely! If you’re struggling with asymmetry in the face, fat grafting can be a perfect solution. It can add volume to areas of asymmetry to give you a more balanced and symmetrical facial appearance.

Yes! Fat transfer can be combined with many other cosmetic procedures. Typically, fat transfer can be done alongside a facelift, neck lift, eyelid lift, and more. During your consultation, Dr. Cohen will build a custom treatment plan that ensures you meet all your needs.

To maintain your results after fat transfer, you’ll want to keep your weight stable, avoid smoking and excess alcohol use, avoid excess sun exposure, and stick to a healthy diet and exercise regimen. After your procedure, Dr. Cohen will walk you through the best ways to maintain your results.

You may be a good candidate if you want to restore facial volume, smooth hollows, or achieve a more youthful contour using your own natural tissue. Ideal candidates are in good health and have enough donor fat for the procedure. Dr. Cohen at the Cohen Clinic for Plastic Surgery can evaluate your facial features and goals to determine if fat transfer is right for you.

Preparing typically includes avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol, and pausing certain medications or supplements that increase bleeding risk. Dr. Cohen will give you personalized pre-procedure instructions to ensure the safest and best outcome. Maintaining a stable weight and good skincare habits can also help optimize results.

Most patients experience swelling and bruising for one to two weeks, though this varies by area treated. Many people feel comfortable returning to daily activities within several days, but social downtime may be slightly longer. Dr. Cohen will guide you on what to expect based on your treatment plan.

Yes, fat transfer can refine or enhance results from previous facial cosmetic procedures by adding natural volume where needed. It is often used to soften hollows, correct asymmetries, or improve contour irregularities. Dr. Cohen can assess whether fat grafting is appropriate for revising your past results.

Yes. Because the transferred fat behaves like fat anywhere else in the body, significant weight changes can affect your final appearance. Maintaining a stable weight helps protect your long-term results, and Dr. Cohen can offer guidance on how to preserve your outcome.