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2025.09.03

Fat Transfer: Frequently Asked Questions Q&A [Part 3]

横山 歩依里
Supervising Physician
Ayori Yokoyama

My journey into aesthetic medicine stems from a desire to help enrich and beautify lives beyond simply treating illness. My specialties include hyaluronic acid, Botox, and thread lifts. I provide treatments that enhance each individual's unique qualities and bring out an elegant, natural beauty. For concerns around the eyes that are difficult to improve with dermatology alone, I also perform surgical procedures. By integrating dermatology and surgery, I holistically balance the entire face. With three periods of overseas study, I am also able to provide consultations in English.

Hello!

I am Ayuri Yokoyama, a plastic surgeon and cosmetic dermatologist.

 

 

 

Fat grafting is a popular procedure known for its ability to achieve natural-looking rejuvenation, but it can be daunting for those considering it for the first time.
Here we have compiled frequently asked questions from patients in a Q&A format.

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Q1. How long does fat transfer last?

Once fat has been deposited, it remains semi-permanently. However,Not all fat takes hold; approximately 30 to 70 percent remains.is considered.
Therefore, we often inject a slightly larger amount during the first session. Depending on how well it takes, we may add more fat in a second phase or make minor adjustments with hyaluronic acid.
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Q2. How does it differ from hyaluronic acid injections?

・Hyaluronic acidConvenient, fast-acting, and minimal downtime. However, since it is absorbed, regular maintenance is required.

・Fat transferUsing one's own organization reduces resistance, and once established, the effects persist long-term. The degree of establishment varies significantly among individuals.

If you're looking for something low-maintenance, hyaluronic acid is recommended. If you want results that last as long as possible with just one treatment, fat grafting is recommended.

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Q3. Can lumps form?

In rare cases, fat may solidify and form a lump.
Causes include "injecting too much at once" or "poor-quality fat." Areas with thin skin (such as around the eyes) are also prone to developing lumps.
By carefully processing the fat (condensed rich fat) and injecting it in small, layered increments, the risks can be significantly reduced.

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Q4. How much downtime is there?

・Injection siteMild swelling or bruising for 1 to 2 weeks

・Donation site (thigh, abdomen, etc.)Pain or bruising at the suction site for 1 to 2 weeks

・Until completionIt takes about 3 to 6 months for the swelling to subside and the fat to settle.

Returning to work is possible within a few days to a week, but it takes time for the appearance to look completely natural.

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Q5. Does fat get bigger when you gain weight?

Established fat possesses the same properties as regular fat cells,As weight increases, size increases; as weight decreases, size decreases.There is a tendency.
Extreme weight fluctuations can affect the final result, so maintaining a stable body shape is ideal. In fact, gaining weight is recommended as it tends to be more stable.

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Q6. Can I take it multiple times?

Yes, it is possible.
Especially in delicate areas like under the eyes, injecting too much at once carries the risk of lumps forming, which is dangerous. Therefore, we may start conservatively on the first visit and gradually build up the volume over multiple sessions. For subsequent sessions, fine-tuning with hyaluronic acid or baby collagen is also an option.
Repeating this process will result in a more natural and satisfying finish.
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Q7. Is fat grafting suitable for everyone?

The following individuals are particularly well-suited:

・Repeated hyaluronic acid treatments are burdensome

・I prefer a natural finish

・Concerned about loss of facial volume

・Inserting foreign objects may cause allergy concerns

On the other hand, it may not be suitable for those with a slender build.
Not only does the amount of fat that can be removed decrease, but in some cases, the results may not last as well.

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Summary

While fat grafting offers long-lasting and natural-looking results, it also comes with considerations such as graft survival rates, downtime, and the risk of lumps.
What's important is,What type of fat to process and how to inject itThis varies significantly depending on the physician's experience.

Consulting carefully with a trusted clinic leads to highly satisfying results.

When considering treatment, receive thorough counseling at a reputable clinic and choose the surgical procedure and doctor that best suit you.

We warmly welcome you to visit our clinic for counseling alone.

 

Reservations can be made here.

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 https://reservation.medical-force.com/b/d7bb811e-ebd5-4b93-93f8-588864b24f15

 

【Profile】

Plastic Surgeon/Cosmetic Dermatologist Dr. Ayuri Yokoyama

Japan's Leading Clinic for Beauty and Health Regenerative Medicine|BIANCA CLINIC GINZA/OMOTESANDO 

In my previous role, I was involved in establishing a clinic as a cosmetic dermatologist, from its inception to opening, and served as its director for three years.
Having worked with approximately 20,000 patients' skin and faces, contributing to the clinic's development.

To further expand the scope of treatment, I have now transitioned to BIANCA CLINIC, a leading aesthetic and regenerative medicine clinic in Japan.

We provide the latest aesthetic medical treatments for well-aging, encompassing not only cosmetic dermatology but also cosmetic surgery and internal medicine.

 

【Career】

2020 Graduate of the School of Medicine, Hiroshima University

2020: Worked at JCHO Tokyo Shinjuku Medical Center and affiliated hospitals (National Center for Global Health and Medicine Hospital, Tokyo Yamate Medical Center)

2022: Joined ELM Medical Corporation Served as Director of Azabu Clinic

2025: BIANCA joins the company

【Professional Affiliations/Qualifications】

The Japanese Society of Aesthetic Dermatology

Japanese Society of Anti-Aging Medicine

Occupational Physician Certification

【SNS】

Instagram account 

https://www.instagram.com/dr.airi

 

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