Treatment Overview
Fat grafting for the neck, also known as autologous fat transfer, is a cosmetic procedure where the patient’s own fat is harvested from another area of the body (such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks) and carefully injected into the neck to restore lost volume, smooth out wrinkles, and improve skin texture. In Korea, this procedure is performed with advanced micro-fat and nano-fat injection techniques to achieve natural, long-lasting rejuvenation with minimal downtime. The treatment is popular for addressing age-related volume loss, horizontal neck lines, and skin crepiness without the use of synthetic fillers.
Purpose & Benefits
The primary purpose of fat grafting in the neck is to restore youthful contours, enhance skin elasticity, and smooth wrinkles by replacing lost fat with the patient’s own natural tissue. Benefits include:
- Completely natural filler material (no synthetic substances).
- Long-lasting improvement compared to temporary dermal fillers.
- Enhanced skin quality due to stem cells and growth factors present in the transferred fat.
- Minimal risk of allergic reaction.
- Can be combined with other neck rejuvenation treatments (such as neck lift or laser resurfacing) for comprehensive results.
Ideal Candidates
- Individuals with mild to moderate neck sagging and volume loss.
- Those with horizontal neck wrinkles or skin crepiness.
- Patients seeking a natural alternative to synthetic fillers.
- People with sufficient donor fat in other body areas.
- Healthy individuals with realistic expectations and no active infections in the treatment area.
Possible Risks & Complications
While generally safe, fat grafting can involve:
- Minor swelling, bruising, or discomfort.
- Uneven fat distribution if not performed precisely.
- Partial fat absorption over time (requiring touch-up treatments).
- Rare infection or cyst formation.
Surgical Techniques Used
In Korea, fat grafting is performed using state-of-the-art micro-liposuction systems to harvest fat gently, preserving cell viability. The fat is then purified using advanced centrifugation or filtration systems before being injected into the neck in micro-droplets, ensuring smooth, even distribution. Korean plastic surgeons often combine nano-fat techniques for superficial fine lines and micro-fat injections for deeper volume restoration.
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery is usually quick, with most patients returning to daily activities within 2–3 days. Mild swelling and bruising typically subside within 1–2 weeks. Aftercare includes avoiding excessive neck movement, massaging the treated area only if advised by the surgeon, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to support fat survival.
Results & Longevity
Visible results are immediate, but final outcomes are seen after swelling subsides. Fat survival rates in Korea are typically higher due to refined harvesting and injection techniques, with results lasting several years if maintained with a stable weight and healthy lifestyle.
Treatment Process in Korea
The process begins with a detailed consultation where 3D imaging is often used to plan volume placement. On the procedure day, a small amount of fat is harvested under local anesthesia or light sedation from donor areas like the abdomen or thighs. The fat is purified with specialized equipment such as closed-system centrifugation to prevent contamination. Skilled surgeons inject the fat with micro-cannulas in multiple layers to achieve a natural, even finish. Korea is known for combining fat grafting with regenerative techniques like PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) or stem cell-enriched fat to further improve fat survival and skin rejuvenation. Many Korean clinics also offer same-day combination treatments with laser skin tightening for enhanced results, making Korea a top choice for patients seeking advanced, natural-looking neck rejuvenation.
Cost Range
In Korea, the cost of fat grafting for the neck generally ranges from ₩2,500,000 to ₩5,500,000 KRW (approximately USD 1,900 – 4,200), depending on the clinic’s reputation, the surgeon’s expertise, the inclusion of regenerative enhancements (PRP or stem cell enrichment), and whether the procedure is combined with other treatments. Package deals for facial and neck fat grafting are also common in Korean aesthetic clinics, often providing better value.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery Clinic – Known for advanced fat grafting and regenerative aesthetic techniques.
- View Plastic Surgery – Specializes in natural neck and face rejuvenation with high fat survival rates.
- JW Plastic Surgery – Offers stem cell-enriched fat grafting for superior results.
- ID Hospital – Combines fat grafting with skin tightening treatments for comprehensive anti-aging effects.
