How Long Does Fat Grafting Really Last?
Fat grafting has become an increasingly popular option for those looking for a natural-looking enhancement. Whether it’s used for breast augmentation, facial rejuvenation, or restoring volume elsewhere in the body, the appeal is easy to see. You’re using your own fat to enhance or restore shape, without implants or synthetic fillers.
But one of the most common questions patients ask is, ‘how long does it actually last?’
Fat grafting can offer long-lasting results, but it’s important to understand how the process works and what factors can affect the outcome. Like any cosmetic procedure, managing expectations is key to making a confident, informed decision.
What happens during fat grafting?
Fat grafting (also known as fat transfer) involves removing fat from one part of the body, often the stomach, hips, or thighs, using liposuction. That fat is then processed and carefully injected into another area that needs volume or reshaping. Common uses include subtle breast enhancement, adding fullness to the cheeks or under-eye area, and softening deep lines in the face.
As the fat comes from your own body, there’s no risk of allergic reaction or rejection. The results are often subtle, and in many cases, fat grafting can be done alongside other procedures such as a breast lift or facial surgery.
How long do fat grafting results last?
Once fat has been transferred, your body needs time to establish a new blood supply to support those fat cells. Some of the transferred fat will not survive this process and will naturally be reabsorbed by the body, usually within the first few weeks after the procedure.
On average, about 60-80% of the fat survives long-term. The rest is gradually lost, which is completely normal and expected. The fat that does take tends to stay put, and the results can last for many years, sometimes even permanently, provided your weight stays fairly stable.
It’s worth noting that some patients need more than one session to achieve their ideal outcome, particularly when larger volume changes are involved. This is especially true in natural breast augmentation, where a further fat transfer may be required if you’re aiming for a more noticeable difference.
How to ensure lasting results
Several factors can influence how much of the fat survives and how long your results last. Your general health, the technique used, and how well you follow post-procedure instructions all play a role. Smoking, for example, can reduce blood flow and affect fat survival, so it’s strongly advised to stop both before and after the procedure.
Weight changes can also impact your results. If you lose a significant amount of weight after the procedure, you may notice a reduction in volume in the treated area, just as you would in other parts of the body. Similarly, major weight gain can increase volume unpredictably, so maintaining a steady weight is important for long-lasting results.
In facial fat grafting, the changes are usually more subtle, but they can still be impressive. Volume lost through ageing can be restored with fat to the cheeks, temples, and jawline. While some of that volume will fade as the fat settles, the remaining result is often long-lasting, softening your features and giving a more youthful, refreshed appearance.
What should you expect?
Fat grafting isn’t an instant or one-size-fits-all solution. Results take time to develop as swelling subsides and the fat settles. In the first few weeks, you may look slightly fuller than expected and that’s partly due to swelling and the fat that won’t survive long-term. As your body adjusts, the final result gradually becomes visible over the following months.
If you’re considering fat grafting, it’s important to go in with realistic expectations and a clear understanding of the process. Mr Nigel Horlock has extensive experience in natural breast augmentation, facial rejuvenation, and body contouring using fat transfer. During your consultation, he’ll talk you through what to expect, and how to achieve results that feel both natural and lasting.
If you’re ready to explore fat grafting, get in touch to book a consultation.
