Facial Fat Grafting in Seoul, Korea
Facial fat grafting transfers purified fat from your own body to restore volume in cheeks, temples, under-eyes and more for soft, long-lasting, natural results, at NEST Clinic, Gangnam.
- Procedure 1–2 hours
- Downtime 3–5 days
- Swelling 5–14 days
- Results settle 2–3 months
🌸 Quick answer
What is facial fat grafting? Facial fat grafting, also called fat transfer, moves purified fat from your own body — usually the abdomen or thighs — into areas of the face that need volume, such as cheeks, temples, under-eyes and nasolabial folds. Because it uses your own tissue, results feel soft and natural and a portion becomes permanent. Some fat is absorbed in the first few months, so final results settle at 2–3 months and a touch-up is sometimes wanted.
What is facial fat grafting?
Facial fat grafting — also known as fat transfer or autologous fat injection — takes a small amount of your own fat, purifies it, and re-injects it in micro-droplets to restore volume and contour. It is used for cheeks, temples, under-eyes, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, jawline, forehead and lips.
Because it uses natural tissue rather than synthetic product, results are soft and long-lasting, and the fat's own cells can improve skin quality over time. It can be combined with lasers, lifting or fillers; for temporary volume without surgery, fillers may be the simpler first step.
What it improves
- Flat or hollow cheeks
- Tear-trough and under-eye shadows
- Deep nasolabial folds and marionette lines
- Hollow temples and forehead shape
- Thin lips, jawline and overall symmetry
Why people choose it
- Long-lasting, natural volume
- Uses your own fat — no synthetic filler
- Soft, smooth texture
- May improve skin quality over time
- Can be combined with lifting or lasers
Before & after: what changes
Change is gradual as swelling settles — the face looks softly fuller and more rested, with results clear at 2–3 months.
Who is a good candidate?
A good fit if you
- Have facial hollowness or volume loss
- Want natural-looking fullness
- Prefer your own fat over temporary fillers
- Have visible aging around the eyes or mid-face
- Have enough donor fat available
Less suitable if you
- Have very low body fat
- Want extremely sharp, angular contours (implants may suit better)
- Want instant dramatic lift (threads or HIFU may be needed too)
- Prefer a non-surgical, reversible option — consider cheek fillers
How facial fat grafting works
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Harvesting fat
Small amounts of fat are taken from the abdomen, thighs or flanks using gentle liposuction.
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Processing and purification
The fat is filtered or centrifuged to isolate healthy fat cells.
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Micro-injection
Fat is injected in micro-droplets into targeted facial layers for smooth, even distribution and better survival.
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Sculpting and contouring
Precise layering creates natural, balanced results. The procedure takes about 1–2 hours.
Recovery and results timeline
Expect swelling in the treated areas for 5–14 days, possible mild bruising, and tenderness at the donor site for 3–7 days. Most normal activities resume within 3–5 days and makeup is usually allowed after 3–4 days. Final results become clear at 2–3 months as the fat settles.
- First days Swelling and mild bruising
- 3–5 days Back to most activities
- 1–3 months Some fat reabsorbs
- 2–3 months Final result; remaining fat is lasting
Facial fat grafting cost in Seoul
Pricing depends on the areas, technique and surgeon. International patients pay the same local price; your exact quote is confirmed at consultation.
| Under-eye / tear trough | ₩1,200,000 – ₩2,500,000 |
|---|---|
| Cheeks or temples | ₩1,500,000 – ₩3,000,000 |
| Full-face fat grafting | ₩3,000,000 – ₩7,000,000+ |
| Stem-cell–enhanced grafting | ₩5,000,000 – ₩10,000,000+ |
| Procedure time | 1–2 hours |
| Results settle | 2–3 months |
Safety and precautions
- Temporary swelling and bruising are common
- There is a small risk of asymmetry or irregularity, often correctable
- The donor site may feel sore for a few days
- Choose a trained surgeon to avoid vascular risks
- Avoid smoking and keep weight stable to maximise fat survival
Aftercare tips
- Avoid pressing or rubbing the injected areas
- Sleep with your head elevated for the first few nights
- Avoid intense exercise for about 1 week
- Stay hydrated and maintain a stable weight
- Use gentle skincare and daily SPF 50+, and attend follow-ups
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Sohee Joo · Chief Executive Doctor, NEST Clinic
Medytox Best Doctor · Restylane (Galderma) Medical Advisor · Key Doctor for several injectable brands. M.Sc., Dongguk University College of Medicine; specialist training at Dongguk University Medical Center.
Facial Fat Grafting FAQ
How long do facial fat grafting results last?
A portion of the fat is reabsorbed in the first 1–3 months, but the fat that survives becomes essentially permanent and ages naturally with you. Results typically last years; some people choose a second session for refinement.
Is facial fat grafting painful?
The procedure is done under appropriate anaesthesia, so you are comfortable. Afterwards expect swelling and mild soreness at both the face and the donor site, easing within days.
How much downtime should I plan?
Swelling lasts 5–14 days and most activities resume within 3–5 days, with makeup usually after 3–4 days. If you are visiting Seoul, allow enough time before flying home.
How much does facial fat grafting cost in Seoul?
Under-eye grafting is around ₩1,200,000–₩2,500,000, cheeks or temples ₩1,500,000–₩3,000,000, and full-face ₩3,000,000–₩7,000,000 or more. International patients pay the same local price.
Fat grafting or fillers — which should I choose?
Fat grafting is longer-lasting and natural but is surgery with downtime; fillers are quicker, adjustable and reversible but temporary. Your doctor will advise based on your goals.
Is it safe for darker skin tones?
Yes. Fat grafting does not rely on heat or pigment targeting, so skin tone is not a limiting factor; careful technique keeps scarring at the donor and entry sites minimal.
Often considered with facial fat grafting
Would fat transfer or fillers suit you better?
Send a few photos to our English-speaking team on WhatsApp — our doctors will advise whether fat grafting or fillers fits your face, at the same local price for international patients.