What Is Facial Fat Grafting?

Facial fat transfer, or fat grafting, is a minimally invasive procedure that restores volume to the cheeks, temples, jawline, and lips. Fat is gently harvested from a donor area—often the abdomen or thighs—purified, then precisely re-injected into areas where volume has been lost. While fillers can offer temporary improvement, facial fat grafting provides a more lasting, natural-looking result. It’s a popular option for patients looking to enhance their facial contours, soften signs of aging, or complement procedures like blepharoplasty.

What Are the Benefits of Facial Fat Transfer?

  • Restores youthful volume in the cheeks, temples, jawline, and lips
  • Softens facial hollows and improves contour
  • Uses your own tissue—no synthetic fillers or implants
  • Enhances facial symmetry and harmony
  • Provides long-lasting, natural-looking results
  • Boosts overall confidence and facial vitality

Who Is a Good Candidate for Facial Fat Harvest?

You may be a candidate for fat transfer if you notice a loss of facial volume that makes you appear tired, aged, or less vibrant. Ideal candidates are healthy non-smokers with enough donor fat to support the procedure. During your facial fat harvest consultation in West Palm Beach or Palm Beach Gardens, FL, Dr. Michael Connor will evaluate your goals, facial structure, and overall health to determine if facial fat grafting is a good fit for you.

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What to Expect During Your Consultation

Your consultation with Dr. Connor will help you feel informed, confident, and comfortable with your decision. He’ll take the time to understand your goals, answer your questions, and walk you through your options. Together, you’ll create a plan that aligns with your needs and feels right for you—free of pressure or sales tactics.

If facial fat grafting is a good match, Dr. Michael Connor will explain what to expect from the procedure, recovery, and results. He always aims to partner with you on a safe, supportive, and satisfying treatment experience.

Procedure at a Glance

  • Procedure: Facial Fat Transfer
  • Concerns Addressed: Facial volume loss, contour imbalance, hollow features
  • Anesthesia: IV sedation—this is a surgical procedure performed in the outpatient surgery center
  • Recovery: Return to work in 7–10 days; avoid strenuous activity for 4 weeks
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What to Expect on the Day of Treatment

Once you’re resting comfortably, Dr. Connor will make a few small incisions in the donor area and gently remove fat using liposuction. After purifying the fat, he carefully injects it into areas of volume loss using micro-cannulas for precision and safety.

In some cases, a slightly larger amount of fat is placed to account for natural absorption during the healing process. Once the procedure is complete, small incisions are closed, and you’ll rest in the recovery area before heading home.

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Recovery After Facial Fat Grafting

Recovery is usually smooth, with most patients returning to non-strenuous work within a week. You may experience some swelling, bruising, or soreness in both the donor and injection areas, especially in the first few days. These effects typically fade within 7 to 10 days and can be managed with over-the-counter or prescription medication.

Dr. Michael Connor will provide personalized aftercare instructions and follow-up appointments to monitor your healing. Sun protection is especially important during recovery, and once cleared, any temporary discoloration can be concealed with makeup. Strenuous activity should be avoided for about four weeks to allow the fat cells to stabilize and settle.

Why Choose Dr. Connor for Facial Fat Transfer?

Dr. Michael Connor is a board-certified, fellowship-trained oculoplastic surgeon known for delivering natural, balanced results tailored to each patient. With years of experience in facial procedures, his approach blends surgical precision with genuine compassion. Patients often say what sets Dr. Connor apart isn’t just his skill—it’s how he makes them feel.

His kind, easy-going demeanor creates a welcoming experience from consultation through recovery. In a field often marked by sales-driven care, Dr. Connor offers something different: integrity, transparency, and personalized support every step of the way.

Patient Reviews

“I am super impressed with this practice. Dr. Connor is extremely talented. I made an appointment thinking that I needed surgery. A less professional and ethical Doctor could have easily scheduled a costly procedure. Dr. Connor was able to take...”

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“They made the process easy from start to finish with their friendly staff, informative literature, affordable payment plan and post surgery follow up. The results were amazing.”

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“They made the process easy from start to finish with their friendly staff, informative literature, affordable payment plan and post surgery follow up. The results were amazing.”

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“I can not thank Dr Connor and his wonderful team enough for the care I received! Recently I had a basal cell below my right eye lid. The basal cell required the Mohs surgery first done by a dermatologist and...”

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“Dr Connor is terrific. He solved a persistent clogged oil duct problem painlessly. Staff is lovely as well. Very glad my optometrist recommended this excellent doctor.”

—Trish B.

“I was most comfortable with my first consultation with Dr. Conner explaining his procedure to correct and improve my upper and lower eyelids. From the moment I decided to have the surgery to my first appointment post surgery, I cannot...”

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“Dr. Connor did an excellent job with my upper blepharoplasty. I came to him for revision surgery after another completely incompetent doctor had ruined my face. Dr. Connor is the go-to leading plastic surgeon for revision surgeries. I wish I...”

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“I chose Dr. Conner because he was very highly recommended by several medical professionals. They were not wrong. He is highly competent and very personable. He took the time to fully engage in discussion of the process and procedure. He...”

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“Dr. Connor is an expert surgeon in oculoplastics and I knew I was in competent, capable hands from my first visit. Dr. Connor has a kind, thoughtful demeanor and was extremely responsive to my concerns. This was my first plastic...”

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“I had an upper blepharoplasty and lower skin pinch by Dr Conner. Both surgeries came out great. I would never go anywhere else. I am so pleased.”

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“My experience from beginning to end was flawless. The Staff were kind and always concerned for my comfort. I went to sleep and woke up with no pain or worries. They checked on me through the recovery period with answers...”

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“Had a mini brow lift! Best thing I’ve done. Very little pain once compression bandage came off. Everyone terrific and communicated a lot! Highly recommend Dr Connor and staff”

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“I had an upper blepharoplasty in January and I'm thrilled with the results. Dr. Connor is talented and kind. The before and after photos were taken a month apart. Everyone in his practice is fantastic. Highly recommend.”

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“From the first appointment through the final post op visit my expectations were exceeded.Everyone was professional and friendly. Dr Connor is a gifted surgeon and I was amazed to get a post op call at home from Dr. Connor with...”

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“The office is beautiful and the staff warm, welcoming and efficient. Dr. Connor is a very skilled Oculoplastic surgeon with a warm and calming personality. I very pleased with my lower lid blepharoplasty and recommend this practice highly.”

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“Amazing! Dr. Connor is extremely knowledgeable and truly an expert in his field. I am so thankful I chose Dr. Connor for my upper eyelid surgery and under eye laser procedure. During my visits and surgery I found the entire...”

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“I cannot praise the medical team enough; they are simply amazing! Dr. Connor epitomizes positivity, professionalism, and approachability, backed by unparalleled medical expertise and surgical finesse. Spending time with him and his compassionate team was genuinely enjoyable. And the results?...”

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“I can’t say enough amazing things about this practice! From the staff that welcomes you, to Kim and Lindsey who schedule and walk you through your procedure, and finally to Dr. Connor, Erin, and Melanie, top notch. My upper lids...”

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“The office staff and Dr. Connor are so kind and professional. I had amazing results after my upper eyelid bleph. I can wear my contacts again because the loose skin isn't dragging the lens with each blink. I look 12...”

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“I am 71 and my eyes had drooped so much that I basically had two narrow slits to try to see through. I had stopped reading magazines such as New York and Vanity Fair because the squinting was too difficult...”

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Frequently Asked Questions Facial Fat Transfer

How much does facial fat grafting cost?

The cost varies depending on the areas treated and the amount of volume needed. After evaluating your goals and anatomy, Dr. Connor will provide a detailed quote during your consultation.

Is facial fat grafting painful?

The procedure is performed under anesthesia, so you’ll be completely comfortable. Any post-procedure tenderness can be managed with medication and typically resolves within a few days.

How long until I see results?

Some initial fullness is expected as the fat settles. Swelling will decrease over several weeks, and final results typically appear between 3-6 months once the fat has fully integrated.

Can I combine facial fat transfer with other treatments?

Yes. Fat transportation in West Palm Beach & Palm Beach Gardens at Oculoplastic & Orbital Consultants is commonly paired with eyelid surgery or other facial procedures for more comprehensive rejuvenation. Dr. Connor can help you build a custom plan during your consultation.

Are there risks with fat transfer?

As with any procedure, there are potential risks, including swelling, bruising, infection, fat reabsorption, and minor contour irregularities. Dr. Connor’s conservative approach and attention to detail minimize these risks.

What are the alternatives to fat grafting?

If you’re not a candidate for fat transfer or prefer a non-surgical option, dermal fillers can temporarily restore facial volume. Dr. Connor can recommend the right approach based on your goals and anatomy.

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Schedule a Consultation for Facial Fat Grafting Serving West Palm Beach and Palm Beach Gardens

If you’re considering fat transplantation in West Palm Beach & Palm Beach Gardens, FL, we invite you to take the next step toward a refreshed, naturally fuller appearance. Dr. Michael Connor serves patients in South Florida with warmth, precision, and expertise. Contact us today to schedule your private consultation.

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