The loss of facial fat, reduced collagen, and changes in bone density create a hollow, tired, or less defined appearance. Facial fat transfer restores that lost volume using your body’s own fat, creating soft, natural-looking rejuvenation.

Fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon Dr. Moriyike Akinosun uses advanced fat transfer techniques to restore facial fullness, refine contours, and enhance the results of other facial procedures. She approaches fat grafting with precision and restraint, ensuring results that look balanced and authentic.

What Is Facial Fat Transfer?

Facial fat transfer, also called fat grafting, involves removing fat from one area of your body, purifying it, and carefully injecting it into targeted areas of the face.

Because the fat comes from your own body, it blends naturally with your existing tissues. This makes it an effective alternative to synthetic fillers for patients seeking a more natural, longer-lasting approach to facial rejuvenation.

Fat transfer is commonly used to restore volume in the following areas while maintaining a soft, natural appearance:

  • Cheeks
  • Under-eye area
  • Temples
  • Jawline
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How Fat Transfer Works

Dr. Akinosun performs fat transfer using a refined, multi-step technique designed to maximize precision and long-term results.

The first step involves using liposuction to gently remove fat, typically from the abdomen, outer thighs, or another area where fat can be safely and discreetly removed. The harvested fat is then carefully processed and purified before Dr. Akinosun strategically injects it into areas of volume loss.

This meticulous approach allows for a smooth, even distribution and supports long-term fat survival, resulting in natural-looking volume that moves and feels like your own tissue.

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Fat Transfer vs. Dermal Fillers

Facial fat transfer and dermal fillers can both restore volume, but they offer different advantages.

  • Fat transfer uses your own tissue, making it a natural alternative for patients who prefer to avoid synthetic products. While not all transferred fat survives, the portion that does is long-lasting. It also allows for broader volume restoration across multiple areas of the face.
  • Dermal fillers are temporary and may be better suited for smaller, more targeted adjustments or patients seeking minimal downtime.

During your consultation, Dr. Akinosun will help determine whether fat transfer, fillers, or a combination approach is best suited to your goals.

Combining Fat Transfer With Facial Plastic Surgery

Fat grafting is often used to enhance the results of other facial procedures by restoring volume alongside structural improvements.

Dr. Akinosun frequently combines facial fat transfer with procedures such as a deep plane facelift to create more comprehensive, natural-looking rejuvenation. While lifting procedures reposition tissue to address sagging, fat transfer restores youthful fullness to create a more balanced, harmonious result.

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What To Expect During Recovery

Recovery after facial fat transfer is typically well tolerated, with most patients returning to normal activities within a short period.

Day 1

Expect swelling and bruising immediately after your procedure. Rest, keep your head elevated, and follow all care instructions. Discomfort is typically mild and managed with medication.

Days 2-3

Swelling and bruising peak during this period. Continue keeping your head elevated, use cold or warm compresses as directed, and avoid strenuous activity. Light walking is encouraged to support circulation.

Days 4-5

You’ll notice continued improvement in swelling and bruising. Continue your aftercare routine and light activity, but avoid anything that significantly raises your heart rate.

Days 6-7

Many patients feel ready to resume normal daily activities, though you should still avoid exercise and heavy lifting.

Days 8–10

You’ll see results begin to emerge as swelling continues to resolve. Protect your skin from sun exposure and avoid pressure on the treated areas.

Days 11–14

Most visible signs of treatment have resolved. You can return to your normal routine and gradually reintroduce more strenuous activity. Residual swelling will continue to refine over the coming weeks.

Frequently
Asked Questions

How long do fat transfer results last?

The fat that successfully integrates becomes a long-lasting part of your facial structure. While some reabsorption occurs early on, the remaining fat can last for years.

Will my results look natural?

Yes. Because it uses your own fat, results tend to look and feel very natural, blending seamlessly with your facial features.

Is fat transfer safe?

Fat transfer is considered safe when performed by a qualified, experienced surgeon. Using your own tissue also eliminates the risk of an allergic reaction.

How does recovery compare to fillers?

Fat transfer involves slightly more downtime than fillers because the procedure includes liposuction to harvest fat, but it offers longer-lasting results.

Can fat transfer be repeated?

Yes. In some cases, Dr. Akinosun may recommend follow-up treatments to further enhance or refine results.

Meet With
Dr. Akinosun

A facial fat transfer consultation is the first step in understanding what’s possible and creating a plan tailored to your features and goals. From the beginning, Dr. Akinosun’s calm demeanor puts patients at ease, while her thoughtful, individualized approach guides you through each stage of the process. Patients visit from Oakbrook Terrace, Naperville, and surrounding Chicagoland communities to experience her personalized care.

Moriyike Akinosun, MD