Table of contents

• What Is Body Fat Grafting?
• Best Clinics in Korea for Body Fat Grafting
• Body Fat Grafting in Korea
• Alternatives to Body Fat Grafting
• Conclusion

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Are you ready to transform unwanted body fat into a more contoured, confident you? Discover why South Korea is becoming the go-to destination for body fat grafting, offering naturally beautiful results through the expert hands of top surgeons. Explore this article to learn more about the procedure, the standout clinics in Korea, and how alternatives compare, ensuring you're equipped to achieve your cosmetic goals.

What Is Body Fat Grafting?

Body fat grafting, also known as autologous fat transfer or fat injection, is a medical procedure in which fat is harvested from one part of the patient's body and transferred to another area that requires augmentation or contour correction. This technique is primarily used for cosmetic enhancements but has also found applications in reconstructive surgery.

How It Works

The procedure typically begins with liposuction, where fat is removed from a donor site such as the abdomen, thighs, or buttocks. The harvested fat is then purified to remove any impurities or non-viable cells. Finally, the purified fat is carefully injected into the target site using specialized needles or cannulas.

Who Can Benefit?

Body fat grafting is suitable for:

• Individuals seeking natural body contouring: Instead of synthetic fillers or implants, patients can achieve a more natural look and feel.
• Reconstructive surgery patients: This procedure is often utilized in breast reconstruction after mastectomy or to correct facial deformities.
• Aging individuals: Those looking to restore volume lost due to aging in areas like the face, hands, and buttocks.
• Patients with scarring: Fat grafting can help improve the appearance of certain types of scars, irregularities, or indentations.

Types of Body Fat Grafting Procedures

There are several variations of body fat grafting, depending on the target area and the amount of fat to be transferred:

1. Facial Fat Grafting:

   • Used to enhance facial features such as cheeks, lips, and jawline.
   • Also useful in reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

2. Breast Fat Grafting:

   • Often used in breast reconstruction post-mastectomy.
   • Can be used for breast augmentation, although results are more subtle than with implants.

3. Buttock Fat Grafting (Brazilian Butt Lift):

   • Involves transferring fat to the buttocks for increased volume and improved shape.

4. Hand Rejuvenation:

   • Used to replenish lost volume in aging hands, making veins and tendons less prominent.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Natural Results: Since the procedure uses the patient's own fat, the results are generally more natural-looking and feeling compared to synthetic fillers.
• Reduced Risk of Allergic Reactions: The risk of allergic reactions or rejection is minimal as the body recognizes its own fat cells.
• Dual Benefits: Patients can benefit from both the removal of unwanted fat and the enhancement of another area.
• Minimal Scarring: The procedure involves small incisions, leading to minimal scarring.
• Long-lasting Effects: Results can be long-term if the graft successfully integrates with the existing tissue.

Cons

• Variable Results: Not all transferred fat cells will survive. There is a possibility that some of the injected fat will be reabsorbed by the body over time, leading to the need for additional treatments.
• Lengthy Procedure: The process of harvesting, purifying, and injecting fat can be time-consuming.
• Recovery Time: Patients may need a more extended recovery period, especially if large volumes of fat are transferred.
• Cost: The procedure can be expensive, particularly since it may require multiple sessions to achieve the desired results.
• Complications: Although rare, complications such as infection, fat embolism, or cyst formation can occur.

Overall, body fat grafting offers a versatile and natural option for those looking to improve their aesthetics or undertake reconstructive procedures. However, individuals considering this procedure should consult with qualified medical professionals to understand the risks and benefits fully.

Best Clinics in Korea for Body Fat Grafting

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for body fat grafting:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic	Situated in the Cheongdam area of Gangnam, Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic sets the benchmark for body fat grafting in Korea by uniting stem cell science, sterile infrastructure, and elite surgical expertise under one roof. By enriching harvested fat with concentrated stem cells extracted using advanced centrifuges precisely maintained at the optimal 4°C rather than room temperature, Lydian consistently elevates graft survival to about 50–60% compared with the typical 20–30%. Ministry of Health and Welfare approved double-door sealed cleanrooms with HEPA-filtered Clean Class 10,000 air protect every step of stem cell separation and concentration, safeguarding quality and patient safety. To ensure natural, even contours, the clinic employs the Edinizer to create uniformly sized fat cells, reducing the risks of cluster-related necrosis and surface irregularities while enabling denser placement that can lessen swelling and further support graft take. Results are guided by Dr. An Kyung Chun—over two decades of body sculpting experience, selected among Korea’s Top 18 Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Experts, Director of the 5D Liposculpture Academy, listed among the World’s Top 100 Doctors in Stem Cell Aesthetic Medicine, and a trainer of domestic physicians—who delivers anatomy-based, fully customized designs with continuously updated, state-of-the-art equipment. A boutique, single-specialist model ensures VIP-level attention from consultation through Lydian’s four-step aftercare program for swelling reduction, irregularity correction, skin elasticity recovery, and residual fat contouring. Complementing its leadership in 5D high-definition body sculpting and comprehensive offerings such as BBL and full-face fat grafting, Lydian stands out as the premier choice for safer procedures, refined contours, and longer-lasting volume in stem cell fat grafting.	4°C stem cell-enriched fat grafting; Edinizer for uniformly sized fat cells; cleanroom protocols with HEPA filtration; 5D high-definition body sculpting; BBL and full-face fat grafting.
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	In Korea’s highly competitive aesthetic landscape, THEPLUS Plastic Surgery stands out as the best choice for body fat grafting because it unites world-class surgical leadership with a research-driven, harmony-focused approach in a purpose-built, four-floor facility in Garosu-gil, Gangnam. Board-certified director Dr. Kim Taek Kyun—an award-winning researcher on 3D implants, a global society member, and a leading expert in facial contouring—pairs anatomical precision with his philosophy of balancing features to achieve natural beauty, an ideal foundation for finely tuned volumetric procedures like face fat grafting. President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, Dr. Jeong Jae Yong advances the field through frequent conference lectures and panels worldwide, applying his ethos of combining function and beauty to deliver safe, aesthetically balanced fat grafting results. Complementing this leadership, board-certified Dr. Lee brings top-tier experience from hospitals such as Seoul National University Hospital and a track record of natural, long-lasting outcomes, reinforcing the clinic’s nuanced mastery of soft-tissue aesthetics. THEPLUS surgeons are not only seasoned clinicians with over a decade of experience but also active scholars who publish in journals, contribute to textbooks, and participate in international symposiums and medical societies, including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons—evidence of their commitment to continual advancement and education. With a seamless continuum of care from consultation through surgery and dedicated post-operative skincare, personalized communication at every step, and a safety-first culture, THEPLUS delivers the refined, balanced, and enduring results patients seek from fat grafting.	3D implants; facial contouring; volumetric procedures like face fat grafting; soft-tissue aesthetics.
Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic	Located in the heart of Gangnam, Seoul, Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic is led by Dr. Lee Hyungmin, a one-doctor specialist who provides comprehensive, end-to-end care for every patient. With more than 16 years of experience and recognition as one of Korea’s 100 Good Doctors, Dr. Lee combines personalized consultations with state-of-the-art technology, including 3D imaging and high-definition endoscopy, to plan and execute procedures with precision and safety. For body fat grafting, Seojin focuses on natural-looking contour enhancement through thoughtful, individualized treatment. Whether refining curves with liposuction and strategic fat transfer or addressing specific goals like hip dip fat grafting—or integrating fat grafting with hybrid breast implant techniques—patients benefit from Dr. Lee’s meticulous approach and attentive follow-up, ensuring continuity of care from consultation through recovery.	3D imaging; high-definition endoscopy; liposuction and strategic fat transfer; hip dip fat grafting; fat grafting with hybrid breast implant techniques.

Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic

Situated in the Cheongdam area of Gangnam, Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic sets the benchmark for body fat grafting in Korea by uniting stem cell science, sterile infrastructure, and elite surgical expertise under one roof. By enriching harvested fat with concentrated stem cells extracted using advanced centrifuges precisely maintained at the optimal 4°C rather than room temperature, Lydian consistently elevates graft survival to about 50–60% compared with the typical 20–30%. Ministry of Health and Welfare approved double-door sealed cleanrooms with HEPA-filtered Clean Class 10,000 air protect every step of stem cell separation and concentration, safeguarding quality and patient safety. To ensure natural, even contours, the clinic employs the Edinizer to create uniformly sized fat cells, reducing the risks of cluster-related necrosis and surface irregularities while enabling denser placement that can lessen swelling and further support graft take. Results are guided by Dr. An Kyung Chun—over two decades of body sculpting experience, selected among Korea’s Top 18 Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Experts, Director of the 5D Liposculpture Academy, listed among the World’s Top 100 Doctors in Stem Cell Aesthetic Medicine, and a trainer of domestic physicians—who delivers anatomy-based, fully customized designs with continuously updated, state-of-the-art equipment. A boutique, single-specialist model ensures VIP-level attention from consultation through Lydian’s four-step aftercare program for swelling reduction, irregularity correction, skin elasticity recovery, and residual fat contouring. Complementing its leadership in 5D high-definition body sculpting and comprehensive offerings such as BBL and full-face fat grafting, Lydian stands out as the premier choice for safer procedures, refined contours, and longer-lasting volume in stem cell fat grafting.

You can check out their website here: Lydian Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

In Korea’s highly competitive aesthetic landscape, THEPLUS Plastic Surgery stands out as the best choice for body fat grafting because it unites world-class surgical leadership with a research-driven, harmony-focused approach in a purpose-built, four-floor facility in Garosu-gil, Gangnam. Board-certified director Dr. Kim Taek Kyun—an award-winning researcher on 3D implants, a global society member, and a leading expert in facial contouring—pairs anatomical precision with his philosophy of balancing features to achieve natural beauty, an ideal foundation for finely tuned volumetric procedures like face fat grafting. President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, Dr. Jeong Jae Yong advances the field through frequent conference lectures and panels worldwide, applying his ethos of combining function and beauty to deliver safe, aesthetically balanced fat grafting results. Complementing this leadership, board-certified Dr. Lee brings top-tier experience from hospitals such as Seoul National University Hospital and a track record of natural, long-lasting outcomes, reinforcing the clinic’s nuanced mastery of soft-tissue aesthetics. THEPLUS surgeons are not only seasoned clinicians with over a decade of experience but also active scholars who publish in journals, contribute to textbooks, and participate in international symposiums and medical societies, including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons—evidence of their commitment to continual advancement and education. With a seamless continuum of care from consultation through surgery and dedicated post-operative skincare, personalized communication at every step, and a safety-first culture, THEPLUS delivers the refined, balanced, and enduring results patients seek from fat grafting.

You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website

Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic

Located in the heart of Gangnam, Seoul, Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic is led by Dr. Lee Hyungmin, a one-doctor specialist who provides comprehensive, end-to-end care for every patient. With more than 16 years of experience and recognition as one of Korea’s 100 Good Doctors, Dr. Lee combines personalized consultations with state-of-the-art technology, including 3D imaging and high-definition endoscopy, to plan and execute procedures with precision and safety.

For body fat grafting, Seojin focuses on natural-looking contour enhancement through thoughtful, individualized treatment. Whether refining curves with liposuction and strategic fat transfer or addressing specific goals like hip dip fat grafting—or integrating fat grafting with hybrid breast implant techniques—patients benefit from Dr. Lee’s meticulous approach and attentive follow-up, ensuring continuity of care from consultation through recovery.

You can check out their website here: Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

Body Fat Grafting in Korea

Body fat grafting, also known as fat transfer or fat injection, is an increasingly popular cosmetic procedure that involves harvesting a patient's own fat from one part of the body and injecting it into another area to enhance volume and contour. South Korea has become a global hub for this procedure due to its advanced medical technology, highly skilled surgeons, and competitive pricing.

Preliminary Research and Consultation

Before embarking on your journey to Korea for body fat grafting, it's crucial to conduct thorough research. Many clinics in Korea have multilingual websites where you can find detailed information about the procedure, the surgeons, and patient testimonials. Most reputable clinics offer online consultations, allowing international clients to discuss their needs and get an initial assessment without the need for immediate travel.

Planning Your Travel and Stay

Once you've chosen a clinic and had an initial consultation, the next step is to plan your travel. South Korea offers a variety of visa options, and many people can enter the country without a visa or obtain a visa on arrival, depending on their nationality. Seoul, the capital city, is home to numerous world-renowned clinics and hospitals specializing in cosmetic procedures.

Accommodation options range from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Many clinics provide assistance with booking accommodations and airport transfers to ensure a smooth experience. Some high-end clinics even offer package deals that include your stay, transportation, and a medical assistant who speaks your language.

Arrival in Korea:

Upon arrival in Korea, you'll usually be greeted by a representative from the clinic who will escort you to your chosen accommodation. This personalized service is designed to alleviate the stress of travel and help you settle in comfortably. The representative will often provide you with a detailed itinerary, outlining all your appointments and giving you ample time to settle down before your procedure.

Pre-Procedure Preparation

A thorough in-person consultation with your chosen surgeon is scheduled before the procedure. During this meeting, the surgeon will:

• Discuss your medical history and any concerns you might have.
• Perform a physical examination to ensure you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
• Explain the steps involved in body fat grafting, potential risks, and expected outcomes.
• Answer any last-minute questions and provide pre-operative instructions.

The Procedure Day

Body fat grafting typically is performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of the procedure. The process involves three main steps:

1. Harvesting: Fat cells are extracted from areas with excess fat, like the abdomen or thighs, using liposuction.
2. Purification: The harvested fat is then processed and purified to remove any impurities and damaged cells.
3. Injection: The purified fat is carefully injected into the target area to achieve the desired contour and volume.

Most patients experience minimal pain and discomfort during the procedure, thanks to advanced anesthesia techniques.

Post-Procedure Care and Follow-Up

After the procedure, you will be monitored for a few hours before being discharged. Clinics provide detailed aftercare instructions and may also offer follow-up appointments to ensure your recovery is on track. Swelling and bruising are common but typically subside within a few weeks. You will be advised to avoid strenuous activities and follow any specific guidelines given by your surgeon to promote optimal healing.

Enjoying Korea During Recovery

While you need to take it easy during the initial recovery period, many patients find time to explore Korea's vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and beautiful landscapes. Clinics often suggest a list of light activities and places of interest that are suitable for patients recovering from cosmetic procedures.

Continuous Support and Communication

Korean clinics are known for their excellent post-operative care and continuous communication. Even after you return home, many offer virtual follow-ups to ensure that your recovery is progressing well and to answer any questions that may arise.

Immersing yourself in Korea for body fat grafting combines world-class medical care with the opportunity to experience a rich and diverse culture. The country's commitment to excellence in both healthcare and hospitality ensures a seamless and rewarding journey for anyone seeking to enhance their appearance through body fat grafting.

Alternatives to Body Fat Grafting

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are a popular non-surgical alternative to body fat grafting. These injectable gels contain hyaluronic acid or other substances that augment tissues, creating volume in targeted areas like the lips, cheeks, and under-eye regions. The procedure is quick, often completed in under an hour, and results are visible immediately. While not permanent, dermal fillers typically last between six months to two years. This option suits individuals seeking a less invasive approach with minimal recovery time.

Implants

For individuals seeking significant enhancement of areas like the breasts, buttocks, or chin, implants remain a vigorous alternative. Implants are medical-grade devices made from silicone or saline that are surgically inserted into the body to achieve the desired volume and contour. One of the critical benefits of implants is that they offer long-lasting and often permanent results. However, the procedure requires general anesthesia and entails a more extended recovery period compared to fat grafting or dermal fillers.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is an innovative alternative that uses the patient’s blood to promote healing and rejuvenation of tissues. The procedure involves drawing a small amount of blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and then injecting it into the desired area to stimulate collagen production and cell turnover. PRP is particularly effective in treating facial wrinkles, volume loss in the hands, and even hair restoration. Its natural composition minimizes the risk of allergic reactions or adverse effects, making it suitable for patients looking for a safe and minimally invasive option.

Procedure Price	Korean Won (₩)	USD ($)
Low Price	₩5,000,000	$3600
High Price	₩16,000,000	$11600

Exchange rate as of 2025-05-22: 1 KRW = 0.0007 USD

Please note that these prices are approximate guidelines and can vary significantly based on the clinic and your individual circumstances.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Body Fat Grafting in Korea stands out as a highly effective and increasingly popular cosmetic procedure, championed by state-of-the-art medical technology and a focus on natural, aesthetically pleasing results. With its blend of advanced techniques and experienced professionals, Korea has become a global hub for those seeking to enhance their appearance through autologous fat transfer. Patients can expect notable improvements in contour and volume, with the additional benefit of minimal invasiveness and reduced recovery times. As Korea continues to lead in cosmetic innovations, Body Fat Grafting offers a promising avenue for individuals looking to achieve their desired look through safe and reliable methods.