Treatment Overview
Fat grafting (also called fat transfer or fat injection) is a minimally invasive procedure where a patient’s own fat is harvested (usually from the thighs, abdomen, or flanks), processed, and reinjected into areas needing volume.
For dark circles, fat grafting is highly effective when the primary cause is tear trough hollowness, volume loss, or thin under-eye skin. By restoring lost volume, it reduces shadows, improves skin thickness, and enhances under-eye smoothness.
In Korea, fat grafting for dark circles is refined and natural-looking, often paired with stem-cell enriched fat grafting or combined with regenerative injectables like Rejuran i or exosomes for longer-lasting rejuvenation.
Purpose & Benefits
- Volume Restoration: Fills hollow tear troughs, reducing deep shadows.
- Natural Material: Uses your own fat, reducing allergy risk.
- Skin Quality Improvement: Fat is rich in stem cells, improving skin texture and elasticity.
- Long-Lasting Effect: Results can last several years with proper maintenance.
- Synergy with Other Treatments: Often combined with lasers or skin boosters for brighter, smoother under-eyes.
Ideal Candidates
Fat grafting in Korea for dark circles is recommended for:
- Patients with deep tear troughs or hollow under-eyes.
- Adults with volume loss due to aging.
- Those with thin skin showing veins or blood vessels.
- Individuals seeking natural, long-term improvement instead of fillers.
Comparison with Other Treatments:
- Fat Grafting: Best for hollow-type dark circles.
- Fillers (Hyaluronic Acid): Good for temporary correction (6–12 months).
- BB Laser / Chemical Peels: Best for pigmentation-related circles.
- Carboxy Therapy: Best for vascular (bluish) dark circles.
- Rejuran i / Exosomes: Best for skin regeneration.
Possible Risks & Complications
Fat grafting is safe when done by experienced Korean plastic surgeons, but possible risks include:
- Mild Swelling & Bruising: Common, resolves within 1–2 weeks.
- Fat Reabsorption: Some fat naturally resorbs; touch-up may be needed.
- Unevenness or Lumps: Rare, corrected with minor adjustments.
- Infection (very rare): Avoided with sterile techniques.
Treatment Techniques Used
- Micro-Fat Grafting: Uses very fine cannulas for smooth under-eye contouring.
- Nano-Fat Grafting: Fat is emulsified for skin regeneration and brightening.
- Stem Cell-Enriched Fat: Adds regenerative benefits for skin quality improvement.
- Combination Approach: Often paired with fillers, PRP, or skin boosters for complete rejuvenation.
- Protocol: Usually 1–2 sessions, with touch-up after 6–12 months if needed.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Swelling, mild bruising.
- 1–2 Weeks: Swelling subsides, results start to settle.
- 1–3 Months: Final outcome visible as fat integrates with tissues.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply cold compress during first 24–48 hours.
- Sleep with head elevated to reduce swelling.
- Avoid smoking or alcohol (affects fat survival).
- Use gentle skincare and SPF 50+ daily.
- Follow doctor’s instructions for follow-up visits.
Results & Longevity
- Short-Term (2–4 Weeks): Noticeable improvement in hollowness and shadowing.
- Medium-Term (3–6 Months): Stable results with smoother, rejuvenated under-eyes.
- Long-Term (Years): Many patients enjoy results for 3–5 years; maintenance touch-ups may be needed.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Diagnosis – Surgeon evaluates dark circle type and donor fat sites.
- Fat Harvesting – Small liposuction performed on thighs, abdomen, or flanks.
- Fat Processing – Fat purified, sometimes enriched with stem cells or PRP.
- Micro-Fat Injection – Fine cannulas used to place fat smoothly under the eyes.
- Optional Add-Ons – Rejuran i, exosomes, or laser toning for skin quality.
- Post-Care – Cooling mask and follow-up visits for swelling management.
- Follow-Up – Results monitored, with touch-up session if needed after 6–12 months.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Surgeons are world-renowned for delicate fat grafting techniques.
- Korean clinics specialize in nano-fat and stem cell-enriched fat for anti-aging.
- Focus on natural results that avoid puffiness or overfilling.
- More affordable compared to Western clinics, with package pricing.
- Seoul is a global hub for under-eye rejuvenation and anti-aging procedures.
Cost Range (Detailed Breakdown)
Pricing for Fat Grafting in Korea for dark circles:
- Basic Under-Eye Fat Grafting (micro-fat): USD 1,000 – 2,000
- Stem Cell-Enriched Fat Grafting: USD 2,000 – 3,500
- Nano-Fat Grafting + Skin Boosters (Rejuran/Exosomes): USD 2,500 – 4,000
- Premium Dark Circle Package (Fat Grafting + PRP/Exosomes + Laser Toning): USD 3,500 – 6,000
Additional Costs in Korea:
- Consultation: USD 20 – 50
- Pre-op Tests (if required): USD 50 – 150
- Add-ons (Rejuran i, PRP, Exosomes, PN): USD 150 – 500 per session
💡 Many patients say fat grafting feels like a “permanent filler with extra skin benefits”, since it restores volume naturally and improves skin quality over time.
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery – Micro & nano-fat grafting for natural under-eye rejuvenation.
- Oracle Dermatology & Plastic Center – Fat grafting + skin boosters for long-lasting results.
- Renewme Skin Clinic – Fat grafting combined with Rejuran i for skin repair.
- View Plastic & Dermatology – Premium fat transfer packages with PRP and exosomes.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center – Stem cell-enriched fat grafting + multi-step repair protocols.
