Medically reviewed by Dr Sin Yong · Last reviewed · 3 min read
Fat necrosis is fat tissue that has died, usually because it did not get enough blood supply. After fat grafting it can form a firm lump, sometimes tender, and over time it may calcify. It is one of the recognised causes of lumps after facial fat transfer.
An area of greater graft survival feels soft like surrounding fat; necrosis feels firm; an oil cyst is a smooth pocket of liquefied fat. Ultrasound helps tell them apart.
Small areas may soften over time. Visible or bothersome firm necrosis may be excised by a surgeon. A red, hot, painful or growing lump should be seen promptly. See lumps after fat grafting.
Usually not, but a red, hot, painful or growing lump should be assessed promptly to exclude infection or inflammation.
No. Surface lipo-remodelling acts on living excess fat; firm or calcified necrosis is managed differently.
Schiraldi L, et al. Facial fat grafting (FFG): worth the risk? A systematic review of complications and critical appraisal. J Clin Med 2022;11(16):4708. source
Consultations by appointment at Orchard Road, Singapore.
Replies within clinic hours: Mon–Fri 10am–8pm, Sat 11am–3pm · How consultations work · Prefer not to use WhatsApp? · Treatment finder
WhatsApp +65 8023 7170 →