Understanding Facial Fat Grafting
Facial fat grafting is a natural, long-lasting way to restore volume to areas of the face that have lost fullness due to aging, weight loss, or previous surgery. Over time, our faces naturally lose fat in key areas like the cheeks, temples, and under the eyes—leading to a hollow or tired appearance. Fat grafting replenishes this lost volume using your own fat, creating soft, youthful contours without synthetic fillers.
Dr. Iyengar uses advanced techniques in fat harvesting, refinement, and microinjection to ensure smooth, precise results tailored to each patient’s facial anatomy and aesthetic goals.
When should I consider facial fat grafting?
If you’ve noticed deepening facial folds, sunken cheeks, hollow temples, or thinning under-eye areas, facial fat grafting may be a great option. It’s ideal for patients seeking natural results with long-term volume restoration. Many also consider fat grafting as part of facial rejuvenation surgery (such as a facelift or eyelid lift), or as a standalone procedure.
Fat grafting is particularly beneficial for those who prefer using their own tissue rather than synthetic products.
What are my treatment options?
Facial Fat Grafting (Autologous Fat Transfer)
The procedure involves gently harvesting fat from an area of the body—commonly the abdomen, flanks, or thighs—using liposuction. The fat is then purified and injected in small amounts into specific areas of the face to restore natural volume and contour.
Dr. Iyengar uses a layered, microdroplet technique to ensure even integration of the fat, producing smooth, subtle enhancement. Common target areas include the cheeks, tear troughs, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, jawline, and lips.
Nanofat and Skin Quality Enhancement
In select cases, a portion of the fat can be processed into nanofat—a fine, cell-rich solution used to improve skin texture, tone, and radiance. Nanofat can be used under the eyes, around fine wrinkles, or even in scarred areas to promote regeneration and collagen remodeling.
Why choose Dr. Iyengar for facial fat grafting?
As a plastic surgeon with an artistic eye and reconstructive expertise, Dr. Iyengar delivers natural, refined results through meticulous technique. His background in facial anatomy and attention to detail ensure precise fat placement for lasting results that enhance—not overpower—your features.
Whether performed alone or as part of a comprehensive rejuvenation plan, fat grafting with Dr. Iyengar is designed to restore harmony and confidence.
What does recovery look like?
Recovery after facial fat grafting is typically mild. You may experience temporary swelling, bruising, or fullness in both the donor and injection sites. Most patients can return to light activities within a few days, with more visible results settling over 1–2 weeks.
Because some fat is naturally reabsorbed, a small percentage of volume loss is expected, and touch-up procedures may be recommended for optimal results. However, the fat that survives becomes a living part of your tissue—offering long-lasting, natural rejuvenation.
Check out how our patients looked before and after.
Check out galleryCheck out what our patients have to say.
Aimee S.
There isn't a bad thing I can say about Dr. Iyengar or my experience. I found Dr. Iyengar after I had been to a friend's consultation up in Bellevue. I heard her quote and options, and knew I wanted to be closer to home for my procedure. I got in for my consultation the same week as I had inquired about my procedure. Dr. Iyengar won me over with the fact that we both grew up in Puyallup, we share a love for Olive Garden breadsticks, he is friendly, knowledgeable, has an incredible bedside manner, taking time to answer questions and get to know your needs, professional, and funny. From consultation to 3 weeks post op, and everything in between has been an experience that I would recommend to family and friends, and have recommend to anyone that asks. If you're going back and forth, do yourself a favor and stop looking. Dr. Iyengar is your guy!! My BFF and I are proof that this guy is THE. BEST.
Lawrence W.
I was having trouble getting a grip on some hand tools, and at a restaurant that used round table ware rather than flat and edged utensils I notice I couldn't seem to hold them from rolling. My primary physician referred me to Dr. Iyengar. Probably one of the better 20 mile appointments I've had.Dupuytren's contracture, is the culprit the good doctor diagnosed and showed how it prevents my hand from lying flat on a table top because the little, and ring finger were closing on the palm. I mentioned that the middle finger of that hand also locked often with some pain associated with the nuisance. "We can take care of these two procedures today if you'd like" he offered and it made sense if he was willing, I'd travelled 20 miles for the diagnosis, getting the cure at the same time was more than just good sense.
In less than an hour, a pain free hour, the troublesome contracting cord had been freed up and a needle shot of a drug, perhaps cortisone, though I've forgotten, and I was on my way to the physical therapist to learn what I could do following up on the minimal surgery.
From the time I entered the office until I left was a pleasant and friendly exchange of information and personal stories. I didn't wait long, so short I could not get through reading the diplomas and advanced training and education certificates hanging on the walls that Dr. Iyengar has garnered from his studies and surgical skills.
The good doctor keeps a friendly atmosphere for staff and patients, for me 20 miles no longer seemed inconvenient. I'll see him for the followup and look forward to that. You'll be in good hands with Dr. Iyengar and staff.
Lisa R.
I have lived my entire adult life self conscious of my neck sagging and double chin. Dr. Iyengar took such good care and gave me a tight neck and for once in my life I have a jawline! I had a neck and lower face lift with lipo in my chin.
Liza C.
From my very first consultation, I was blown away by the level of care and professionalism at this practice. Every single team member, from the front desk to the medical coordinators and assistants, was friendly, attentive, and truly made me feel at ease. The customer service is top-notch!
Dr. Iyengar is exceptional. His experience, skill, and depth of knowledge shine through in every interaction. His bedside manner is warm and reassuring, and he takes the time to truly listen to your goals without ever being pushy. He’s incredibly responsive and makes you feel confident and cared for from day one. Honestly, his fresh perspective combined with his expertise is a major positive!
The aftercare has also been outstanding! Thorough, diligent, and consistently supportive. I’ve felt cared for every step of the way.
My entire experience has been nothing short of excellent. I’d highly recommend this practice to anyone looking for a team that’s professional, compassionate, and truly invested in your care. They set the bar high!
Jenny M.
I’m incredibly grateful that I was referred to Dr. Iyengar for my breast reconstruction surgery. From the very first consultation, he has been an absolute blessing throughout the entire process. His kindness, super friendliness (a rare trait), helpfulness, caring nature, and outstanding service are truly remarkable. Additionally, his extensive knowledge and confident responses to my questions, along with his ability to treat me with personable care, make him an exceptional surgeon.
Quality care in all realms of plastic and reconstructive surgery.
We see our patients as individuals, not just cases on the schedule. Dr. Iyengar makes every effort to get to know his patients personally and thoroughly understand their goals. This personalized approach ensures that every patient receives the highest quality care and achieves the results of their dreams! Dr. Iyengar executes every procedure with precision, integrity and utmost care.
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