Posted September 15, 2025 in Facial Fat Grafting
Facial fat grafting, also known as fat transfer, has become a popular option for patients seeking natural and lasting facial rejuvenation. By using your own fat instead of synthetic fillers, this procedure restores youthful volume while improving skin quality. However, it is only natural to wonder just how permanent the results are.
In this blog, Dr. Scott Green, a board-certified plastic surgeon with offices in Sacramento and Granite Bay, helps patients understand what to expect from facial fat grafting and how long results typically last.
How Facial Fat Grafting Works
The procedure involves harvesting fat from areas such as your abdomen or thighs, purifying it, and carefully injecting it into areas of your face that have lost volume. Common treatment zones include your cheeks, temples, under-eyes, and jawline. Since the fat comes from your own body, it integrates naturally into the tissues for a smooth, soft feel.
What Happens to Transferred Fat?
Not all of your transferred fat survives the process. Typically, 50–70% of the injected fat becomes a permanent part of the treated area. The fat that establishes a new blood supply remains indefinitely, while the rest is naturally reabsorbed by your body in the months following surgery. This is why some patients may require a touch-up session to refine results.
Are Results Really Permanent?
Yes, once the transferred fat cells establish themselves, they function like fat anywhere else in your body. This means that results are considered long-lasting, but not entirely “immune” to the effects of time. Significant weight fluctuations or the natural aging process can still influence the appearance of your results. Typically, you can enjoy benefits for many years, making fat grafting one of the longest-lasting facial rejuvenation options available.
Advantages Over Dermal Fillers
Unlike temporary fillers that dissolve within 6 to 18 months, fat grafting offers the potential for enduring volume restoration. Additionally, because fat contains stem cells and growth factors, you may notice improvements in skin tone and texture beyond volume enhancement.
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Scott Green
If you are considering facial fat grafting and want to know how permanent results may be for you, Dr. Scott Green can provide expert guidance. With extensive experience in facial rejuvenation procedures, he creates personalized plans to help patients look refreshed and youthful. He is board certified and earned his medical degree and Texas A&M School of Medicine. Contact our Sacramento office at (916) 909-1775 or Granite Bay location at (916) 471-2551 to schedule your consultation.