Compartment-Based, Dual-Plane Fat Grafting for Lip Aesthetics: a Preliminary Report

BACKGROUND: The evolving understanding of lip compartments provides an anatomic framework for precise augmentation. Autologous fat grafting offers a permanent solution but faces challenges like unpredictable resorption and contour irregularities when performed without structural guidance. METHODS: A compartment-based, dual-plane fat grafting technique was used in 10 female patients seeking permanent lip enhancement. The method integrated a simplified 7-point access strategy with the anatomic lip compartment theory. Fat was injected into deep (posterior) compartments through a blunt cannula for foundational volumization and into superficial (anterior) compartments for contour refinement, with particular attention to the lower tubercles. Outcomes were assessed using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS), patient satisfaction surveys (5-point Likert scale), and objective lip ratio measurements preoperatively and at 3 months. RESULTS: All patients achieved improved lip fullness and contour. The mean GAIS score was 1.58±0.51, indicating significant improvement. Patient satisfaction was high, with a mean Likert score of 4.36±0.50. The mean lip ratio improved from 1.10±0.13 to 0.85±0.11, reflecting a more balanced and aesthetic proportion. No major complications were reported. CONCLUSION: The dual-plane, compartment-based fat grafting technique provides a structured and anatomically guided approach to lip augmentation. By targeting specific compartments in different planes, it facilitates predictable volumization and refined contouring, resulting in high patient satisfaction and natural aesthetic outcomes. This method represents a promising refinement in autologous lip enhancement.