Overview
Acne can leave depressed scars where tissue beneath the skin has been lost or pulled down. Fat transfer uses a small amount of your own fat, gently collected and processed, to restore volume beneath these scars and soften the pitting.
It is often combined with releasing the fibrous bands that tether a scar down, a step called subcision.
This may be relevant if…
- Rolling or depressed scars on the cheeks or temples
- Scarring together with a loss of facial volume
- Scars that have not improved enough with surface treatments alone
At your consultation
- Identifying the types of scar present — different scars respond to different treatments
- Checking that active acne is controlled before treatment
- Choosing a suitable donor area for fat collection
How it is done
Fat is collected through a tiny incision, purified, and placed in small amounts beneath the scars with a fine cannula.
Risks, recovery & limits
- Part of the transferred fat is naturally reabsorbed, so more than one session may be needed.
- Narrow, deep “ice-pick” scars usually need other approaches.
- Swelling and bruising are expected; risks include infection, lumpiness and uneven correction.
Other options
- Laser resurfacing, microneedling, chemical peels or dermal fillers
- Choosing not to have treatment
This page is general information, not medical advice. Whether this treatment suits you — and your own risks, recovery and costs — can only be judged at an in-person consultation with Dr. Swathi Gagannatham. Read the medical disclaimer.