Easier than most facial surgery — with one psychological trap: you look over-treated before you look good, by design. Here's the realistic timeline for face and donor site.
Every recovery is individual; these are the phases nearly everyone recognises.
The face looks over-full and can bruise — this is expected and temporary. Donor area feels like post-workout soreness. Cold compresses (as instructed), head elevation, and patience. Most patients are comfortable with simple pain relief.
Most visible swelling settles; many patients return to work and social life within 10–14 days. The face still carries extra fullness — do not judge volume yet.
A portion of the fat is naturally resorbed and the rest stabilises. Volume gradually refines toward the real result; the donor area finishes settling.
Surviving fat is now long-term tissue. This is when the outcome is judged — and when any small touch-up, if wanted, is sensibly discussed.
No pressure, massage or face-down sleeping on treated areas in the early weeks — pressure moves fat you want to keep. No smoking: nicotine directly reduces survival.
Early fullness is deliberate over-correction plus swelling. The real result emerges at 3–6 months — decisions made on a swollen face are bad decisions.
Expect gym-soreness and bruising for days, occasional firmness softening over weeks, and a short period of light compression as advised.
Most patients fly home on day 4–6 and are socially fine by day 10–14. Send your dates — the plan is built around them.
Share face photos in neutral light. Dr. Erdal will personally tell you where volume is lost, what fat transfer can realistically achieve, and outline a tailored plan and all-inclusive quote — with no obligation.