Facial Fat Grafting in Washington, DC

Restoring Facial Volume Using Your Body’s Natural Tissue

Fat InjectionAge-related volume loss affects nearly every part of the face. The cheeks begin to flatten, the under-eye area may appear sunken, and the jawline loses its definition. These changes can make the face look older or fatigued, even when a person feels well. Facial fat grafting offers a method of restoring lost volume using a patient’s fat.

At DC Cosmetic Surgery Center in Washington, DC, this procedure supports long-term correction by addressing structure and contour without synthetic fillers.

What Is Facial Fat Grafting?

Facial fat grafting, or autologous fat injection, is a surgical technique that transfers fat from one area of the body to the face. Common donor sites include the abdomen, thighs, or flanks.

The harvested fat undergoes purification before being placed into areas of the face that have experienced volume loss through small injections.

This method offers a biologically compatible solution for facial rejuvenation and can enhance results when combined with other procedures.

Who Is a Candidate for Fat Transfer to the Face?

Facial fat grafting is appropriate for patients with visible loss of facial volume, particularly in the cheeks, temples, or periorbital region. Candidates must have adequate donor fat and be in good overall health. Individuals who have previously used dermal fillers but seek longer-lasting outcomes may benefit from this approach.

During the consultation, a complete assessment of facial anatomy, medical history, and cosmetic goals determines whether this procedure meets the patient’s needs.

My experience with Dr. Olding and his staff was absolutely wonderful

My experience with Dr. Olding and his staff was absolutely wonderful. After several consultations with other plastic surgeons I settled on Dr. Olding because I believed he was the most qualified and showed the best judgment while explaining my procedure to me. He was also recommended to me by my trusted dermatologist so that factored into my decision as well.
H. A.

What to Expect During the Procedure

The procedure begins with gently removing fat from a selected donor site using a liposuction technique. This fat is then refined to isolate viable cells and reintroduced to specific areas of the face using small syringes and blunt cannulas.

Each injection is placed with precision to ensure even distribution and natural contour. Facial fat grafting typically takes one to two hours and is performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the case. Most procedures occur on an outpatient basis.

What to Expect After Treatment

Postoperative effects include swelling, bruising, and tenderness at both the donor and injection sites. These symptoms usually resolve within one to two weeks.

Patients should avoid strenuous activity during the early recovery period, but can often resume normal routines within a few days. The body will absorb a portion of the transferred fat, but the remaining volume typically stabilizes after several weeks.

Long-term retention varies but is generally consistent with proper technique and aftercare.

Benefits of Facial Fat Grafting

Facial fat grafting offers a natural and long-lasting solution for restoring facial volume. By transferring your own fat (autologous fat), this procedure integrates seamlessly with existing tissues, minimizing the risk of allergic reactions or rejection.

Not only does it provide volume improvement, but the transferred fat also contains regenerative cells that can enhance skin quality. Fat grafting is particularly effective in addressing midface volume loss, periorbital hollowing, and defining the jawline, resulting in a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance.

Cost of Facial Fat Grafting in Washington, DC

Costs depend on the extent of treatment, the areas involved, and whether the procedure is performed alone or in conjunction with other surgeries, such as a facelift.

Patients receive a detailed estimate during the consultation, along with information regarding procedural logistics and recovery.

Why Choose DC Cosmetic Surgery Center

DC Cosmetic Surgery Center provides a clinical setting for patients seeking evidence-based facial rejuvenation. Our approach to facial fat grafting emphasizes anatomical accuracy, tissue compatibility, and aesthetic precision.

Procedures are led by Dr. Michael Olding, a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive training in volume restoration techniques. Patients who have previously undergone facelift surgery or who wish to explore other facial rejuvenation options receive comprehensive evaluations tailored to their goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

While the body reabsorbs some of the transferred fat, the remaining fat typically remains in place for years. Longevity depends on factors such as injection technique, post-procedure care, and patient physiology.
Yes. Facial fat grafting is often performed alongside procedures such as facelift or blepharoplasty. This combination addresses both volume loss and tissue laxity in a single surgical plan.
The midface, cheeks, nasolabial folds, jawline, and under-eye areas respond particularly well to fat grafting. These regions often experience volume loss earlier in the aging process.
Most patients return to routine activity within one week. Full recovery, including reduction in swelling and bruising, may take two to three weeks, depending on the individual.
Significant weight gain or loss can influence the size of the grafted fat cells. Maintaining a stable weight helps preserve the long-term results of the procedure.

Schedule Your Facial Fat Grafting Consultation

Facial volume loss can alter both appearance and facial harmony. For patients seeking a biologically compatible and long-lasting solution, facial fat grafting provides an alternative to temporary fillers. To begin the evaluation process, schedule your consultation today with our team in Washington, DC.

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