Fat compartments.
Facial fat does not lie in one layer but in separate pads stacked and side by side. Their volume loss and descent shape facial ageing.
Facial fat compartments explained: superficial and deep pads, why they age differently, consequences such as nasolabial folds and jowls and what this means…
A closer look.
Anatomical studies since the 2000s have shown that the subcutaneous fat of the face is organised in clearly separated compartments – superficially under the skin and deep on the bone. Known examples are the deep medial cheek fat, the lateral cheek fat, the nasolabial fat and the fat under the eye.
These pads do not age evenly: deep compartments lose volume early, superficial ones descend with gravity. The result is the typical signs of the mid-face – a deeper tear trough, a more pronounced nasolabial fold, jowls over the jawline.
For treatment this means: volume is replaced where it is missing – usually deep on the bone in small amounts – instead of plastering lines at the surface. This 'structure first' logic is why cheeks are treated when the nasolabial fold is the complaint.
This lexicon entry is general information and does not replace the medical consultation required under German law (§ 630e BGB).
At a glance.
A question about Fat compartments? Send us a short WhatsApp message – we usually reply the same working day.
Ask via WhatsAppFrequently asked questions.
Why do I look tired although I have no lines?
Often through volume loss of the deep cheek compartments: shadow under the eye, flatter cheek.
Can descended fat be lifted again?
Not directly; supporting the compartments underneath makes the face look 'carried' again.
Sources and further reading.
- NHS: Dermal fillers – patient information
- MPDG – German medical devices act (fillers are medical devices)
- BfArM – Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices
- DGPRÄC – German Society of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons
- § 630e BGB – duty to inform before treatment (German Civil Code)
- DGBT – German Society for Aesthetic Botulinum Toxin Therapy
- AWMF – German clinical practice guidelines
External links open in a new window; their operators are responsible for their content. Medical responsibility for this page: Katayoun Mostaghimi, specialist in general medicine. Last updated: 2026-10-05.
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