Rebuild Youthful Facial Contours

Fat grafting is a surgical technique that uses your own fat to restore volume, improve contour, and enhance facial balance in areas affected by aging, weight loss, or genetics. Fat is harvested from another part of your body, carefully processed, and precisely placed into targeted facial regions. Because the material comes from you, results look and feel natural while integrating with existing tissue. Dr. Ulm plans each treatment around your specific anatomy and goals, focusing on subtle, controlled enhancements rather than overcorrection.

Fat Grafting Overview

woman with eyes closed touching chin

What Does Fat Grafting Treat?

Facial fat grafting helps restore volume and improve balance in areas where aging, weight changes, or genetics have created hollowing or contour loss, including:

  • Sunken or hollow cheeks
  • Under-eye hollows and tear troughs
  • Temples with volume loss
  • Nasolabial folds and smile lines
  • Marionette lines
  • Thin or deflated lips
  • Overall facial asymmetry

Why Choose Dr. Jason Ulm for Fat Grafting?

Dr. Jason Ulm is a double board-certified plastic surgeon and fellowship-trained at Harvard/Massachusetts General Hospital, and he brings his advanced expertise in aesthetic surgery to every fat grafting procedure. His background in complex reconstruction and aesthetic surgery allows him to handle the delicate facial anatomy with precision, especially in cases requiring subtle volume restoration and nuanced contouring.

You can expect an unrushed, highly detailed consultation focused on understanding exactly what you want to change and what you want to preserve. Patients consistently share that their results match the goals discussed, with improvements that look natural rather than “done.” Dr. Ulm is direct, honest, and meticulous in planning, and he always prioritizes creating balanced outcomes that match your facial proportions and goals.

Words from Our Clients "It has taken me some time to find the words to describe Dr. Jason Ulm."

My experience receiving chin liposuction from Dr. Ulm and his team was wonderful. From the very beginning they were supportive and informative, and really helped answer my questions and prepare me ...

My experience receiving chin liposuction from Dr. Ulm and his team was wonderful. From the very beginning they were supportive and informative, and really helped answer my questions and prepare me for exactly what I was in for. In the week leading up to surgery, they checked in on me and made sure to talk through any of my questions and fears, and the day of they were so kind and accommodating. They continued to check in during recovery, and my healing process was so quick and easy. I couldn’t be happier with the results - they’ve honestly changed my life and how I view myself. The whole process felt so personal and turned out exactly how I wanted!

SML

5 star rating

I cannot say enough amazing things about my breast reduction and brachioplasty with Dr. Ulm. From the very first consultation, I felt completely heard, respected, and cared for. Dr Ulm took the tim...

I cannot say enough amazing things about my breast reduction and brachioplasty with Dr. Ulm. From the very first consultation, I felt completely heard, respected, and cared for. Dr Ulm took the time to understand my goals, explain the procedures in detail, and set realistic expectations which gave me so much confidence going into surgery. Dr Ulm's precision, skill, and eye for aesthetics made all the difference , and I am so happy with the outcome. The entire staff was also warm, professional, and supportive throughout the entire process - from pre-op to recovery. They made sure I felt safe and informed throughout the process. I would totally recommend Dr. Ulm for any plastic surgery. This has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. I wish I had done it sooner.

Melanie

5 star rating

Best breast aug surgeon in Charleston! I had an amazing experience with Dr. Ulm. He did a breast aug & mini tummy tuck. I had previous breast implants (from another doc), but I needed to get th...

Best breast aug surgeon in Charleston! I had an amazing experience with Dr. Ulm. He did a breast aug & mini tummy tuck. I had previous breast implants (from another doc), but I needed to get them redone after breastfeeding children. My results are better than anything I could've dreamed of!

NSFW

5 star rating

I was referred to Dr. Ulm by my cousin who worked with him at MUSC. She said that he was the best and I couldn't agree more! He has brought me back to my pre-baby body after three children and I wi...

I was referred to Dr. Ulm by my cousin who worked with him at MUSC. She said that he was the best and I couldn't agree more! He has brought me back to my pre-baby body after three children and I will forever be grateful. He is very professional and took the time to make sure I would be thrilled with my results and I am! Ladies, do yourself a favor and visit Dr. Ulm. For the first time since having children, I am excited about swimsuit season!

Murrells

5 star rating

Dr. Ulm and his whole staff were wonderful. I went to a few different doctors for consults and felt most comfortable with Dr. Ulm due to his amazing bedside manner and his explanations of everythin...

Dr. Ulm and his whole staff were wonderful. I went to a few different doctors for consults and felt most comfortable with Dr. Ulm due to his amazing bedside manner and his explanations of everything. I scheduled my mommy makeover with him and I am glad I did. My results were better than expected and I received daily phone calls in the post operative time period to check on how I was doing. I highly recommend Dr. Ulm!!

Celebrated677251

5 star rating

I had an amazing experience with Dr. Ulm. He did a breast aug & mini tummy tuck. I had previous breast implants (from another doc), but I needed to get them redone after breastfeeding children....

I had an amazing experience with Dr. Ulm. He did a breast aug & mini tummy tuck. I had previous breast implants (from another doc), but I needed to get them redone after breastfeeding children. My results are better than anything I could've dreamed of!

mimzy123

5 star rating

I had 3 C-sections, the most recent 12 1/2 years ago, and during the pandemic, I lost almost 90 pounds. I had a lot of skin after I lost my fat. My abs were shot, and my skin was flabby, so I could...

I had 3 C-sections, the most recent 12 1/2 years ago, and during the pandemic, I lost almost 90 pounds. I had a lot of skin after I lost my fat. My abs were shot, and my skin was flabby, so I couldn't really enjoy my huge weight loss. I wanted a tummy tuck and brachioplasty. Last minute, I added on a little liposuction for the last little bit of stubborn fat. I met with Dr. Ulm, and felt immediately comfortable with going through with the procedure. We moved quickly because I wanted it done over my holiday break. It was DEFINITELY worth it. I was really anxious on surgery day as the pandemic was still going on, and I was nervous about major surgery, especially one I didn't "need." The anesthesiologist, nurse, and Dr. Ulm did not ignore my mental health on that day! I felt very safe and "in the right hands." He said the pain/recovery would be like with my C-sections, and that was about right! Afterward, Dr. Ulm called my husband every day to make sure I was okay, and I had to check in with a nurse every day. I felt confident that if there were a problem, I would be taken care of, even over a holiday break. Aftercare has been great, as well. My scar (on my abdomen) is right over my C-section scar. My arm scars are, of course, harder to hide, but I'm still very, very happy (as my arm flab was harder to hide!). I am still getting used to my tummy being numb, but he says it will keep getting better, and that is a small price to pay! I am about 12 weeks post-op, and I bought my first bikini ever! On the day of the consult, Dr. Ulm showed me where my scar would be, and he asked if that would "interfere with where my bikinis normally lie." I told him I have never worn a bikini. He said, "well after this, maybe you will." I didn't believe I would ever be THAT confident with my body. Laura was also awesome, helping me navigate all the craziness of scheduling the surgery and aftercare. She was always available to me. In summary, I DEFINITELY recommend Dr. Ulm and his team for your tummy tuck!

Sshdoughty

5 star rating

I am so glad I went to Dr. Ulm, I am 10 days post op for a tummy tuck, implant exchange and lift. This is by far the worst pain I have ever been in but it gets better each day. I’m excited to see w...

I am so glad I went to Dr. Ulm, I am 10 days post op for a tummy tuck, implant exchange and lift. This is by far the worst pain I have ever been in but it gets better each day. I’m excited to see what my final results will be but so far I’m satisfied!

Thrifty444293

5 star rating

My dream was to find a plastic surgeon to make me look refreshed and very natural. After going on several consults, I was so impressed with meeting Dr Ulm and his team. He listened to me when I exp...

My dream was to find a plastic surgeon to make me look refreshed and very natural. After going on several consults, I was so impressed with meeting Dr Ulm and his team. He listened to me when I expressed that I wanted to smooth out the deep wrinkles on my cheeks, remove the excess skin from my neck, & give me a slight lip lift to refresh my face . When I asked Dr. Ulm if I could speak to one of his past clients, he did not hesitate, and after listening to her rave about Dr Ulm and looking at her before and after pictures, I knew that I could trust Dr Ulm. He listened to every word I said.
Dr Ulm did a perfect job and truly displayed excellent work and making me look very natural. I find    myself looking in the mirror & so happy with what I see!! Double board certified, highly accomplished, and extremely meticulous in his work , Dr Ulm took the time to listen to me, showing me genuine care and concern while making me feel comfortable and explained the process every step of the way. Dr Ulm has a wonderful team that is professional, personable and dedicated. His experience, skill, and compassionate approach made me trust him completely.
Dr Ulm made me “Trust The Process” Forever grateful 🤍

Kat

5 star rating

A few months ago, I solicited a recommendation from an Aesthetispa professional (Lisa) for a plastic surgeon to perform an elective facelift. Being a retired engineering professional from New York,...

A few months ago, I solicited a recommendation from an Aesthetispa professional (Lisa) for a plastic surgeon to perform an elective facelift. Being a retired engineering professional from New York, I began to compile data on Dr. Jason Ulm, and requested a consultation. My “data mining” and research verified Dr. Ulm’s technical competence, credentials and experience. What was unexpected and most delightful was Dr. Ulm’s “ bedside manner” and personable style. I was so impressed with his compassion, attentive listening skills and probing questions intended to fully understand my personal goals. He thoroughly and clearly articulated the surgical procedures and processes, expected outcomes, and requirements to ensure success. SUCCESS ON ALL FRONTS WAS ACHIEVED! I could not be more delighted with the outcomes! Dr. Ulm and his competent support staff far exceeded every expectation. I highly recommend Dr. Ulm and his professional staff to anyone who demands world class technical competencies, compassion, and professionalism. Dr. Jason Ulm is “the whole package”….and I’m blessed he was my surgeon

Nagelc

5 star rating

Best breast aug surgeon in Charleston! I had an amazing experience with Dr. Ulm. He did a breast aug & mini tummy tuck. I had previous breast implants (from another doc), but I needed to get th...

Best breast aug surgeon in Charleston! I had an amazing experience with Dr. Ulm. He did a breast aug & mini tummy tuck. I had previous breast implants (from another doc), but I needed to get them redone after breastfeeding children. My results are better than anything I could've dreamed of!

NSFW

5 star rating

 I got botched by a Dr in Florida who was on Lifetime fixing botched patients therefore I thought he was good. I had a saline leak from a previous implant. This Florida Dr, despite my 5 emails...

 I got botched by a Dr in Florida who was on Lifetime fixing botched patients therefore I thought he was good. I had a saline leak from a previous implant. This Florida Dr, despite my 5 emails not to be bigger than I was before (I’m small framed) not only made my breast 350 to 415,, one breast was much larger than other by one size, they were oddly shaped, and they were much saggier from what I was before. I was so scared for surgery again, who to have it with. I didn’t want to stay that way , I always work hard on my body. I worked out running and weights, it crushed me. It was extremely emotional. It’s not like a bad tailored shirt I could take off. It decreased my confidence and was financially draining . Not only did Dr. Ulm's revision make me back to where I was but better !!! I’m perkier and shaped beautifully ! I think it’s so very very important to find a doctor who listens! Who knows how to give you the right fit and knows how to do beautiful surgery! Cosmetic surgery is an art!!! It’s so extremely important to find a good surgeon ! I highly highly recommend Dr. Ulm ! Thank Dr Ulm for giving me confidence back!!!

Marcie Amoroson

5 star rating

Dr.Ulm and his team are the best! My procedure was a breast implant exchange (went smaller), and he did exactly what I asked for. I know two other ladies who have gone to him for different procedur...

Dr.Ulm and his team are the best! My procedure was a breast implant exchange (went smaller), and he did exactly what I asked for. I know two other ladies who have gone to him for different procedures that also HIGHLY recommend him.

Camille

5 star rating

Dr Ulm and staff were so good to me . They are so nice and care for me well. Dr Ulm is down to earth, he was so gentle and professional. I didn't get any pain or discomfort after my breast argument...

Dr Ulm and staff were so good to me . They are so nice and care for me well. Dr Ulm is down to earth, he was so gentle and professional. I didn't get any pain or discomfort after my breast argumentation. Highly recommended.

QL

5 star rating

All I can say is after this procedure is I wish I had found Dr. Ulm and did this years ago! Dr Ulm listened to my concerns for wanting to look and feel as natural as possible and where I feel some ...

All I can say is after this procedure is I wish I had found Dr. Ulm and did this years ago! Dr Ulm listened to my concerns for wanting to look and feel as natural as possible and where I feel some plastic surgeons will go bigger then requested when it comes to breast Aug he gave me a range to work with and I trusted him to do the rest which could not have been more perfect. I feel like my new breasts were made for my body and I would recommend him and his friendly amazing staff to anyone! I have a new confidence I never thought could be possible

Bostonchick4

5 star rating

I had the most amazing experience with Dr. Jason Ulm! He is an amazing surgeon, very professional and gave me exactly what I wanted! My breast augmentation went smoothly and my scars are almost gon...

I had the most amazing experience with Dr. Jason Ulm! He is an amazing surgeon, very professional and gave me exactly what I wanted! My breast augmentation went smoothly and my scars are almost gone after 2 months! Highly recommend!!!

Hailey

5 star rating

I have had multiple procedures with Dr. Ulm and each time I couldn’t be happier!!
I have had a breast augmentation, chin lipo, and recently just got lipo 360. I am extremely happy with all of my...

I have had multiple procedures with Dr. Ulm and each time I couldn’t be happier!!
I have had a breast augmentation, chin lipo, and recently just got lipo 360. I am extremely happy with all of my results!!! 10000 out of 10 recommend Dr. Ulm 🤩

Taylor

5 star rating

Dr. Ulm’s office and staff are incredible! Friendly and helpful in every way. Dr. Ulm has been very helpful, knowledgeable, and answered all of my questions! Pre and post operative care has been in...

Dr. Ulm’s office and staff are incredible! Friendly and helpful in every way. Dr. Ulm has been very helpful, knowledgeable, and answered all of my questions! Pre and post operative care has been incredible. If I could give more than 5 stars, I would! My breast augmentation and lift healed great, the whole experience has been incredible. I would recommend Dr. Ulm and his practice to anyone wanting plastic surgery!

Mary-Michal

5 star rating

Dr. Ulm and his entire team are amazing! I saw him for a breast augmentation and had the most wonderful experience and am beyond thrilled with my results. He centered my experience around me and wh...

Dr. Ulm and his entire team are amazing! I saw him for a breast augmentation and had the most wonderful experience and am beyond thrilled with my results. He centered my experience around me and what I wanted. He gave his professional advice when asked but definitely followed my lead as the patient. He wants to see extensive inspirational photos to know exactly what his patients want and delivers it. I never once felt rushed in his office the way I have in others. He was also very easy to get in touch with post-surgery. I will send all my friends (in- and out-of-state!) to Dr. Ulm.

Katie

5 star rating

I came in with inspiration photos and an idea of what I wanted, but I’m so glad I trusted his recommendations because he truly knew what would look best for my body and proportions. My results from...

I came in with inspiration photos and an idea of what I wanted, but I’m so glad I trusted his recommendations because he truly knew what would look best for my body and proportions. My results from my breast augmentation look exactly like my inspiration, natural, balanced, and even better than I imagined. His attention to detail and expertise are unmatched.

Anniston

5 star rating

I recently got my first breast aug done with Dr. Ulm, it looks better than I could’ve ever imagined! I chose Dr Ulm after a long search of doctors throughout the southeast. I let Dr. Ulm use his ju...

I recently got my first breast aug done with Dr. Ulm, it looks better than I could’ve ever imagined! I chose Dr Ulm after a long search of doctors throughout the southeast. I let Dr. Ulm use his judgement to help me decide the best size and look for my body type, and I’m so happy with the results. Looks so natural and exactly how I wanted. It was such an easy recovery. The team is warm and friendly and professional, and the entire experience has been so comfortable and easy. 

Leigha

5 star rating

I had a breast augmentation/lift with Dr Ulm. He did an amazing job. He used my inspiration pictures for comparison and he hit the mark. I had pretty significant asymmetry/drooping from kids and th...

I had a breast augmentation/lift with Dr Ulm. He did an amazing job. He used my inspiration pictures for comparison and he hit the mark. I had pretty significant asymmetry/drooping from kids and they look even, perky and perfect for my body. I told him to do what he felt looked best and he delivered. Also, his bedside manner and professionalism was something I was happy with as well. I definitely recommend him and will be back for my next procedure. 

Tia

5 star rating

Could not be happier with my results! So in love with my breast Aug results, I wouldn't go anywhere else! They look and feel amazing and fit my body perfectly!

Madison

5 star rating

I can’t say enough about how great my experience has been with Dr. Ulm and his team. After two kids, I wanted my breast done so I made the appointment and we decided Preservé implants were the best...

I can’t say enough about how great my experience has been with Dr. Ulm and his team. After two kids, I wanted my breast done so I made the appointment and we decided Preservé implants were the best option for what I wanted to achieve. My surgery went better than expected and the healing process was easier than I imagined. I am beyond thrilled with my results and would recommend Dr. Ulm to anyone that is interested in having any sort of work done!

Megan

5 star rating

Dr. Ulm and his entire team are amazing! I saw him for a breast augmentation and had the most wonderful experience and am beyond thrilled with my results. Dr. Ulm was never once pushy. He centered ...

Dr. Ulm and his entire team are amazing! I saw him for a breast augmentation and had the most wonderful experience and am beyond thrilled with my results. Dr. Ulm was never once pushy. He centered my experience around me and what I wanted. He gave his professional advice when asked but definitely followed my lead as the patient. He wants to see extensive inspirational photos to know exactly what his patients want and delivers it. I never once felt rushed in his office the way I have in others. He was also very easy to get in touch with post-surgery. I will send all my friends (in- and out-of-state!) to Dr. Ulm.

Katie

5 star rating

I’d been considering a breast augmentation for years. When I consulted with Dr. Ulm and he explained the new Preserve technique it was an almost immediate “YES” for me. This type of breast augmenta...

I’d been considering a breast augmentation for years. When I consulted with Dr. Ulm and he explained the new Preserve technique it was an almost immediate “YES” for me. This type of breast augmentation checked all the boxes:
• noninvasive
• little downtime
• subtle and natural results

I carefully consulted with Dr. Ulm and his staff about my desired results. The day of surgery his entire staff was incredibly comforting and put my worries at ease. The recovery has been remarkably easy. I rested the day of surgery but was able to drive my kids to school the next morning. One of my biggest hesitations with the surgery was anticipating a long recovery and I am so pleased Preserve allowed me to get right back into my daily life. I am currently two weeks postop and easily give this entire experience a 10/10. I could not be happier with my results.

Kelly

5 star rating

I have an active lifestyle, so a procedure that would take me out for six weeks was never going to work.

After months of research, ...

I have an active lifestyle, so a procedure that would take me out for six weeks was never going to work.

After months of research, I found the Preservé technique — smaller incisions, less pain, and a recovery that actually let me get back to my life. It preserves your natural tissue and sensation, and the implants move with your body for a more natural look and feel.

I did a few consults. Some felt rushed. Dr. Ulm took his time and understood my lifestyle. He's double board-certified and one of the only surgeons in Charleston trained in this technique. Couldn't be happier I did the Preservé technique with him.

H

5 star rating

I have an active lifestyle, so a procedure that would take me out for six weeks was never going to work.

After months of research, I found the Preservé technique — smaller...

I have an active lifestyle, so a procedure that would take me out for six weeks was never going to work.

After months of research, I found the Preservé technique — smaller incisions, less pain, and a recovery that actually let me get back to my life. It preserves your natural tissue and sensation, and the implants move with your body for a more natural look and feel.

I did a few consults. Some felt rushed. Dr. Ulm took his time and understood my lifestyle. He's double board-certified and one of the only surgeons in Charleston trained in this technique. Couldn't be happier I did the Preservé technique with him.

Hannah Jackson

5 star rating

I had the most amazing experience with Dr. Jason Ulm! He is an amazing surgeon, very professional and gave me exactly what I wanted! My breast augmentation went smoothly and my scars are almost gon...

I had the most amazing experience with Dr. Jason Ulm! He is an amazing surgeon, very professional and gave me exactly what I wanted! My breast augmentation went smoothly and my scars are almost gone after 2 months! Highly recommend!!!

Hailey

5 star rating

My experience with Dr. Ulm and his staff was outstanding. Their communication was clear and supportive throughout the entire process, and the results exceeded my expectations. Truly professional, c...

My experience with Dr. Ulm and his staff was outstanding. Their communication was clear and supportive throughout the entire process, and the results exceeded my expectations. Truly professional, caring, and skilled!

Gina

5 star rating

Dr Ulm took the time listen and provide guidance on what to expect during and after surgery. He was recommended to me by a friend and I am so thankful to him for changing my life for the better! He...

Dr Ulm took the time listen and provide guidance on what to expect during and after surgery. He was recommended to me by a friend and I am so thankful to him for changing my life for the better! He provided me the confidence I was lacking without judgement.

Denise

5 star rating

I had lip fillers done by the doctor Jason Ulm and I loved the results! The shape is beautiful and natural, not fake or stiff at all. The doctor was very gentle and gave great advice. After the pro...

I had lip fillers done by the doctor Jason Ulm and I loved the results! The shape is beautiful and natural, not fake or stiff at all. The doctor was very gentle and gave great advice. After the procedure, my lips look fuller but still natural. I feel so much more confident!

Buddhawajana

5 star rating

It has taken me some time to find the words to describe Dr. Jason Ulm. He is kind, compassionate, and incredibly talented. His super power is his unique ability to listen to your concerns and desir...

It has taken me some time to find the words to describe Dr. Jason Ulm. He is kind, compassionate, and incredibly talented. His super power is his unique ability to listen to your concerns and desires. He is skilled and perfectly delivers results that YOU want. I am amazed daily at how "perfect" my outcome is. I fully trusted him and allowed him to guide me through my process and I am so thankful I did. He nailed it and quite honestly gave me a restored confidence that I thought was unattainable. My prep, surgery, and recovery were all seamless and with very minimal pain. Dr. Ulm is hands down a master of his craft, and will always be my go to plastic surgeon!

Tabatha

5 star rating

I cannot say enough amazing things about my breast reduction and brachioplasty with Dr. Ulm. From the very first consultation, I felt completely heard, respected, and cared for. Dr Ulm took the tim...

I cannot say enough amazing things about my breast reduction and brachioplasty with Dr. Ulm. From the very first consultation, I felt completely heard, respected, and cared for. Dr Ulm took the time to understand my goals, explain the procedures in detail, and set realistic expectations which gave me so much confidence going into surgery. Dr Ulm's precision, skill, and eye for aesthetics made all the difference , and I am so happy with the outcome.

The entire staff was also warm, professional, and supportive throughout the entire process - from pre-op to recovery. They made sure I felt safe and informed throughout the process. I would totally recommend Dr. Ulm for any plastic surgery.

This has been one of the best decisions i have ever made. Wish I had done it sooner.

Melanie

5 star rating

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Am I a Candidate for Fat Grafting?

You may be a suitable candidate for fat grafting if you have facial volume loss, hollowed areas, or contour irregularities and want natural-looking restoration using your tissue. Good candidates are generally in good health and have realistic expectations about subtle, refined improvement. Dr. Ulm determines candidacy through a detailed consultation, carefully evaluating your facial anatomy, skin quality, areas of concern, and the amount of available donor fat. He then discusses whether fat grafting alone or with other surgeries will best support your goals.

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Benefits of Fat Grafting

Facial fat grafting offers a versatile, natural approach to volume restoration and contour refinement, with benefits that extend beyond temporary correction, including:

  • Uses your own fat rather than synthetic materials
  • Creates soft, natural-looking volume
  • Improves overall facial contour and balance
  • Can enhance skin quality in treated areas
  • Long-lasting volume retention in many cases
  • Can be combined with other facial procedures
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Your Complete Fat Grafting Experience

Fat Grafting Surgery

On the day of your procedure, you arrive at our accredited surgical facility, where you receive local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the scope of treatment. Dr. Ulm harvests fat from a selected donor area, such as the abdomen or flanks, using a cannula and low-pressure technique to preserve fat cell integrity. The fat is then purified to remove excess fluid and non-viable cells, leaving only healthy tissue for transfer.

The harvested fat is then filtered and purified to separate healthy fat cells from fluid and damaged tissue. Using fine micro-cannulas, Dr. Ulm places small, precise amounts of fat into specific facial layers, gradually and evenly building volume. This technique helps improve graft survival and creates smooth, natural contours. You return home the same day.

Fat Grafting Consultation

During your consultation, you will discuss your concerns, aesthetic goals, and what changes feel most important to you. Dr. Ulm examines your facial structure, skin quality, and volume loss, and explains how fat grafting may address each concern. You will review potential donor areas, expected outcomes, and realistic limitations. You leave with a clear understanding of the plan, why it was recommended, and whether fat grafting is the right choice for you. 

Fat Grafting Recovery

You can expect swelling, bruising, and mild soreness in both the face and donor area during the first week or two. Most patients can return to non-strenuous activities within several days, while more visible swelling improves over 2 to 3 weeks. Temporary firmness may occur as the tissues settle. You should avoid strenuous exercise for approximately 2 weeks and follow all aftercare instructions closely. Dr. Ulm monitors your healing closely to support a smooth recovery. 

Fat Grafting Results

You will notice an initial increase in volume immediately after treatment, though swelling temporarily exaggerates early changes. As swelling subsides over the first several weeks, your contours become more defined. A portion of transferred fat naturally reabsorbs, while surviving cells establish a long-term blood supply. The final results are typically evident by 3 to 4 months. The fat that remains is considered permanent and ages naturally with your face. 

Possible Alternatives to Fat Grafting

While facial fat grafting offers natural, long-lasting volume restoration, it may not be ideal for every concern or patient. The amount of volume loss, degree of skin laxity, desired longevity, and overall facial structure all influence which approach will be most effective. Some individuals may benefit more from treatments that address skin tightening, structural support, or temporary correction rather than volume replacement alone.

Depending on your anatomy and goals, Dr. Ulm may discuss other options such as:

  • Dermal fillers for temporary volume restoration and contour refinement
  • Facelift for a more comprehensive, permanent facial rejuvenation
  • Neck lift for improved jawline definition and lower-face contour
  • Eyelid surgery for addressing upper or lower eyelid aging and hollowness
  • Skin resurfacing for improving texture, tone, and surface-level aging

What Is the Cost of Fat Grafting?

Cost depends on many factors, including the extent of treatment, the surgeon, facility charges, anesthesia, and location. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of facial fat grafting in the United States ranges from about $3,000 to $7,000. This range is just a general guideline: your actual price may be higher or lower based on your individualized surgical plan. For a precise, personalized quote based on your facial anatomy and treatment goals, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ulm.

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Fat Grafting Frequently Asked Questions

How long does facial fat grafting last?

The fat cells that successfully establish a blood supply become a permanent part of your facial tissue. While some of the transferred fat reabsorbs in the first few months, the remaining cells can provide long-lasting volume that ages naturally with you.

Where is the fat taken from?

Common donor areas include the abdomen, flanks, thighs, or hips. Dr. Ulm selects the donor site based on fat quality, availability, and overall body proportions, using specific fat-harvesting techniques that minimize trauma and support a healthy transfer of fat cells.

Will I have scars?

Both harvesting and injection are performed through very small access points. These typically heal as tiny, barely noticeable marks that fade over time.

What are the risks of fat grafting?

As with any surgical procedure, risks may include infection, bleeding, contour irregularities, asymmetry, fat reabsorption, or need for revision. Choosing a board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeon like Dr. Ulm can significantly reduce these risks. Dr. Ulm discusses all potential concerns openly during your consultation so you can make an informed decision.

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