Fat Grafting Fundamentals
Fat grafting, or lipofilling, uses the patient's own fat harvested from donor sites such as the abdomen or thighs to augment facial contour. Because the tissue is autologous, the technique can create natural results when injections are placed in precise layers and microdroplets. In Korea, surgeons are known for delicate sculpting and disciplined injection patterns that reduce the risk of irregularities.
Before considering fat grafting, a thorough evaluation of nasal and sinus health is essential to plan safely. Sinusitis symptoms such as congestion, facial pressure, or persistent nasal discharge can influence anesthesia risk and postoperative swelling. An ENT consultation helps rule out an active infection and ensures an appropriate timing for surgery.
Recovery and Safety
Recovery from fat grafting typically involves mild swelling and temporary numbness that gradually recedes over weeks. Most patients resume light activities within a week, while the final contour solidifies over one to three months. Following surgeon guidelines on head elevation, sun exposure, and gentle massage supports consistent results.
Safety considerations include infection prevention, fat graft retention, and avoiding pressure on treated areas. If sinus health changes during recovery, persistent sinusitis symptoms should prompt medical advice before resuming intense activities. Maintaining hydration, balanced nutrition, and sleep supports healing and reduces postoperative stiffness.
Contour and Lifting
Fat grafting complements contouring and lifting by restoring midface volume and supporting structural balance. Targeted injections can reduce hollows around the cheeks and nasolabial folds, enhancing overall symmetry. Precise microfat distribution preserves natural movement and helps integration with surrounding tissues after a lift.
For patients pursuing combined procedures, planning harmony between facial features and nasal or lip lines is essential. Surgical teams assess how grafted fat will interact with nasal airflow and regional swelling to minimize downtime. Discussing any history of sinusitis symptoms with the surgeon can guide timing and technique.
Hospital Choice Trends
Choosing a hospital with board certified plastic surgeons and accredited facilities remains central to safety. Look for surgeons with proven experience in midface fat grafting and portfolios showing natural results. Korean clinics increasingly emphasize meticulous technique, rigorous safety standards, and transparent outcomes.
Recent beauty trends favor subtle volumes that restore youth without changing identity, especially around the cheeks and temples. Techniques like small volume grafts and refined fat processing methods are popular for natural texture and quicker recovery. Ask about postoperative care, recovery management, and long term follow up to maximize durability.