Treatment Overview
Fat Grafting (also called autologous fat transfer) is a regenerative dermatology treatment that uses a patient’s own fat to correct depressed acne scars and volume loss. Fat is harvested from areas like the abdomen or thighs, purified, and then carefully injected into scarred skin.
Unlike temporary fillers, fat grafting offers both volume restoration and regenerative benefits since fat contains stem cells and growth factors that improve skin quality over time.
In Korea, fat grafting for acne scars is often performed as part of multi-step scar protocols, combining it with subcision, CO₂ fractional laser, PRP, or Rejuran to maximize scar remodeling.
Purpose & Benefits
- Scar Lifting: Fills in depressed acne scars.
- Collagen & Stem Cell Regeneration: Improves long-term skin texture.
- Skin Rejuvenation: Fat-derived stem cells enhance elasticity and hydration.
- Natural & Biocompatible: Uses patient’s own tissue, minimizing risk of allergy.
- Long-Lasting Results: Unlike temporary fillers, fat grafting can provide semi-permanent improvement.
- Combination-Friendly: Enhances outcomes when paired with lasers or microneedling.
Ideal Candidates
Fat Grafting in Korea for acne scars is recommended for:
- Patients with atrophic scars (rolling, boxcar, or wide depressed scars).
- Individuals with volume loss in cheeks or temples due to acne scarring.
- Adults seeking a natural, longer-term alternative to fillers.
- Those willing to undergo a minor surgical procedure for scar repair.
Comparison with Other Treatments:
- Fat Grafting: Best for depressed scars + volume loss + skin regeneration.
- HA Fillers: Best for short-term scar lifting, reversible.
- Bellafill: Best for long-term scar correction (up to 5 years).
- Collagen Stimulators (Sculptra, Radiesse): Best for gradual collagen remodeling.
- CO₂ Laser / Fraxel: Best for texture and surface scar repair.
Possible Risks & Complications
When performed by Korean dermatologists or plastic surgeons, fat grafting is safe. However, possible risks include:
- Swelling & Bruising: Common at donor and injection sites.
- Asymmetry or Irregularity: May require touch-up sessions.
- Partial Fat Resorption: Some injected fat may be reabsorbed, reducing effect.
- Infection (rare): Prevented with sterile techniques.
Treatment Techniques Used
- Fat Harvesting: Liposuction performed on donor area (abdomen, thighs).
- Purification: Fat is centrifuged or filtered to isolate healthy fat cells.
- Micro-Fat or Nano-Fat Injection: Ultra-fine fat particles injected into scarred areas.
- Combination Therapy: Often combined with subcision, PRP, or laser resurfacing.
- Session Protocol: 1–2 sessions, with touch-ups as needed after several months.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Swelling, bruising, and mild soreness.
- 1–2 Weeks: Most swelling subsides, scars appear smoother.
- 1–3 Months: Regenerative effects (collagen, stem cell activity) become noticeable.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply cold compresses for swelling.
- Avoid massaging or pressing the treated area for 1–2 weeks.
- Use SPF 50+ sunscreen daily to protect skin.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle to support fat survival.
Results & Longevity
- Short-Term (2–4 Weeks): Scars appear lifted, skin looks fuller.
- Medium-Term (2–3 Months): Improved scar texture and skin quality.
- Long-Term: Results last years, though touch-up sessions may be required due to natural fat resorption.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Scar Evaluation – Doctor assesses scar type and donor area.
- Fat Harvesting: Small liposuction performed on abdomen/thighs.
- Purification: Fat processed into micro or nano-fat.
- Injection Session: Fat carefully injected into scarred or hollowed areas.
- Optional Add-Ons: Subcision, CO₂ laser, or PRP for combined results.
- Post-Care: Cooling mask and recovery ointments applied.
- Follow-Up: Touch-up sessions scheduled if needed.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Korean dermatologists are global leaders in acne scar combination therapies.
- Advanced fat processing techniques (nano-fat, stem cell-rich fractions) are used.
- Clinics integrate fat grafting with multi-step scar care (lasers, PRP, regenerative boosters).
- More affordable compared to Western countries for specialized cosmetic fat transfer.
- Seoul is internationally known for scar repair and regenerative dermatology expertise.
Cost Range (Detailed Breakdown)
Pricing for Fat Grafting in Korea for acne scars:
- Localized Scar Fat Grafting: USD 800 – 1,500
- Full-Face Fat Grafting for Acne Scars + Volume: USD 2,000 – 3,500
- Fat Grafting + Subcision/PRP Combo: USD 2,500 – 4,000
- Premium Scar Package (Fat Grafting + CO₂ Laser + Rejuran/Exosomes): USD 3,500 – 6,000
Additional Costs in Korea:
- Consultation: USD 30 – 50
- Add-ons (PRP, Rejuran, Exosomes, Microneedling): USD 200 – 600
💡 Many patients describe fat grafting as the “regenerative filler” for acne scars, since it restores volume naturally while improving skin health over time.
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Banobagi Dermatology – Fat grafting + CO₂ laser for scar remodeling.
- Oracle Dermatology – Nano-fat grafting with regenerative boosters.
- Renewme Skin Clinic – Fat grafting combined with PRP/Rejuran.
- View Plastic & Dermatology – Scar repair protocols with fat grafting + subcision.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center – Luxury fat grafting with multi-step scar therapy.
