Treatment Overview
Fat Grafting with Cheek Elevation is a cutting-edge cosmetic procedure widely performed in Korea to restore youthful volume and lift sagging mid-face tissues. This combined approach not only elevates drooping cheeks but also replenishes lost volume by transferring your own purified fat to the targeted areas. Korean plastic surgeons have perfected this technique, achieving natural, long-lasting results with minimal scarring and downtime.
The procedure enhances facial contours, smooths nasolabial folds, and improves overall skin texture, making it a popular choice for patients seeking comprehensive midface rejuvenation without artificial implants.
Purpose & Benefits
The main objectives of fat grafting combined with cheek elevation are:
- Restore lost volume in the cheeks and midface
- Lift sagging tissues for a youthful facial contour
- Smooth deep wrinkles and nasolabial folds
- Improve skin quality and elasticity by stimulating collagen production
- Use your own fat cells, reducing risk of allergic reaction or rejection
- Achieve a natural, refreshed appearance without implants
Korea’s expertise in fat processing and lifting techniques results in high fat survival rates and balanced facial harmony.
Ideal Candidates
Ideal candidates include:
- Individuals aged 30–60 experiencing midface volume loss and sagging cheeks
- Those with deep nasolabial folds or hollow under-eyes
- Patients looking for natural rejuvenation using their own fat
- People who want a combined volumizing and lifting effect without synthetic fillers
- Healthy, non-smoking individuals with realistic expectations
Both men and women choose this procedure for its dual action and subtle yet impactful results.
Possible Risks & Complications
While generally safe, potential risks may include:
- Temporary swelling, bruising, or redness
- Uneven fat survival causing minor asymmetry
- Fat cysts or oil cyst formation (rare)
- Infection or bleeding (minimized by Korean clinic standards)
- Temporary numbness or discomfort around donor or injection sites
Korean surgeons mitigate risks with meticulous fat harvesting, purification, and precise grafting techniques.
Surgical Techniques Used
The Korean method of fat grafting with cheek elevation involves:
- Fat Harvesting: Using gentle liposuction (commonly from the abdomen or thighs) to collect fat
- Purification: Processing fat to remove impurities and enhance cell viability
- Cheek Elevation: Using either a deep plane lift or SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) tightening to lift sagging tissue
- Fat Injection: Carefully layering fat into targeted midface areas such as cheeks, under eyes, and nasolabial folds for volume restoration
- Minimal Incisions: Hidden incisions behind the ears or inside the mouth minimize visible scarring
This combined approach ensures a lifted, volumized midface with a natural contour.
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery time varies but generally includes:
- First 3–7 days: Swelling, mild bruising, and discomfort; cold compresses recommended
- 1–2 weeks: Most swelling subsides; patients can return to work and light activities
- 4–6 weeks: Fat settles, and final results become more apparent
- Post-op care: Includes lymphatic drainage massages, gentle facial care, and avoiding strenuous exercise for 3–4 weeks
Korean clinics often provide personalized recovery plans and advanced therapies like LED light treatments to speed healing.
Results & Longevity
Patients typically enjoy:
- Restored midface volume with a lifted, youthful contour
- Smoother nasolabial folds and under-eye hollows
- Natural, soft-feeling results since the patient’s own fat is used
- Results lasting 5 to 10 years or longer, depending on fat survival and lifestyle
- Improved skin texture due to regenerative effects of fat-derived stem cells
This procedure offers a lasting solution superior to temporary fillers, with the added benefit of lifting sagging tissue.
Treatment Process in Korea
Korean clinics offer a streamlined, patient-friendly experience:
- Consultation: Detailed facial assessment with 3D imaging and personalized plan development
- Surgery Day: Fat harvesting and cheek elevation performed under local or general anesthesia (2–3 hours)
- Post-Op Care: Professional aftercare including medication, cold therapy, and follow-ups
- Recovery Support: Optional services such as accommodation, translation, and transportation assistance for international patients
- Follow-Up: Scheduled visits to monitor fat survival and healing progress
Korea’s advanced medical tourism infrastructure makes the entire process smooth for global patients.
Cost Range in Korea
The price of fat grafting combined with cheek elevation generally ranges:
- ₩7,000,000 to ₩14,000,000 KRW
- Approximately $5,500 to $11,000 USD
Costs vary based on:
- Surgeon’s expertise and clinic reputation
- Amount of fat harvested and injected
- Additional procedures or technologies used
- Included post-op care and patient support services
Premium clinics often bundle services for optimal results and comfort.
Popular Clinics in Korea
Reputable clinics known for excellence in fat grafting and cheek lifts include:
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery – Specializes in natural fat grafting techniques
- ID Hospital – Leaders in facial contouring with integrated lifting and volume restoration
- GNG Hospital – Offers precise midface elevation with fat grafting expertise
- THE PLUS Plastic Surgery – Known for custom-tailored approaches and excellent patient care
