Macro, Micro, and Nano Fat Grafting: The Differences

Most people think of extra fat as something to lose, but what if it could work to your advantage? Fat grafting has changed the game in facial and body contouring and rejuvenation, offering a natural way to restore lost volume, enhance contours, and possibly improve skin quality.

This technique uses your own fat to potentially create long-lasting, natural-looking results. But not all fat grafting is the same. Macro, micro, and nano fat grafting each serve a unique purpose, from adding structure and fullness to refining delicate areas and boosting skin health.

Dr. David Bray, Jr. specializes in facial rejuvenation and body contouring procedures including fat grafting, and the following information describes different fat grafting techniques.

Understanding Fat Grafting

Fat grafting, or fat transfer, involves removing excess fat from one area of the body (often the abdomen or thighs), processing it, and injecting it into another area.

Depending on the treatment goals, Dr. Bray, Jr. processes fat in different ways, leading to three main types:

  • Macro Fat Grafting: Large particles
  • Micro Fat Grafting: Small particles
  • Nano Fat Grafting: Ultrafine particles (almost liquid)

Each type of fat grafting stands out in its own way.

Macro Fat Grafting: Volume and Contouring

Macro fat grafting uses larger fat particles and is ideal for areas that need significant volume restoration. It is commonly used for buttock augmentation.

Since macro fat grafting involves larger fat cells, it integrates well into areas that need noticeable volume and contouring.

Micro Fat Grafting: Precision and Soft Contours

Micro fat grafting refines fat particles into smaller units, making it ideal for delicate areas that need subtle enhancement. This technique works well for sculpting and enhancing volume in areas such as:

  • Cheeks
  • Undereye Hollows
  • Temples
  • Nasolabial Folds (smile lines)

Because the fat is broken down into smaller particles, it integrates well into more superficial areas and areas requiring less overall volume. Micro fat grafting is often ideal for the face. It works well in thin-skinned areas while maintaining a natural appearance. Micro fat grafting is often ideal for the face because the smaller particles don’t cause lumps or bumps.

Nano Fat Grafting: Skin Rejuvenation

Nano fat grafting involves purifying fat into a nearly liquid form rich in Adipose-derived stem cells. This technique isn’t for volume restoration but for skin rejuvenation and repair.

Nano fat grafting may be a good choice to smooth fine lip lines, crow’s feet, or the tear trough area. The nano fat may improve skin tone, quality, and texture.

Fat Grafting in Torrance, CA

Considering fat grafting for facial enhancement or skin rejuvenation? We offer customized procedures to help you reach your face and body goals. Call 310-326-9400 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bray, Jr. at our Torrance, CA office.