Fat Transfer to Face

what is a fat transfer to face ...

As we age, the body can experience changes such as reduced collagen production, decreased skin elasticity, and a gradual loss of volume in certain areas. These changes can affect overall facial appearance, leading to flatter cheeks, hollow temples and less definition in the chin and jawline. While these factors are part of the ageing process, some individuals may consider Fat Transfer to Face surgery as one of the surgical options available to address these concerns.

Fat Transfer to Face surgery, also known as Autologous Fat Grafting, Fat Injections, or Lipofilling, is a surgical procedure that involves removing fat from one area of the body and transferring it to specific areas of the face that have depleted.

Unlike synthetic options, this technique utilises the patient’s own tissue. Fat is harvested from the donor site, filtered and reintroduced to the desired site to increase volume and fullness.

Over time, ageing, weight fluctuations and/or genetic factors can contribute to changes in facial appearance. Fat Transfer surgery is considered by some patients who wish to address concerns such as:

  • Loss of volume in the cheeks, temples, or under-eye area.
  • A desire for a fuller or more balanced facial appearance.
  • Interest in using their own tissue instead of synthetic options.
  • To provide a more comprehensive result than other facial procedures, such as Facelift surgery.

am I a suitable candidate ...

While each patient is assessed individually, suitable candidates for Fat Transfer to Face surgery often share some of the following characteristics:

  • They have noticeable volume loss or changes in facial appearance.
  • They are in good general health, without conditions that could impair healing.
  • They are non-smokers or willing to stop smoking before and after surgery as recommended.
  • They have adequate fat. In other words, patients must have sufficient fat available for harvesting.
  • They understand the risks, potential benefits, and limitations of the procedure.
  • They have realistic expectations about outcomes. Patients must understand that surgical outcomes vary and that not all transferred fat will survive. Secondary/revision procedures may be necessary.

Consultation and Planning

At the initial consultation, your surgeon will conduct a detailed evaluation of the patient’s facial anatomy, listen to their aesthetic concerns, and discuss potential treatment options. Photographic analysis and anatomical assessments help shape a personalised surgical plan that identifies the target areas for fat placement and donor sites for harvesting.

Day of Surgery / Anaesthesia

Fat Transfer to Face surgery is generally performed under general anaesthesia, although the type of anaesthesia may vary depending on individual factors and the extent of the procedure. The most appropriate option will be discussed with you during your consultations and confirmed before surgery. On the day of your procedure, the anaesthesia will be administered by a qualified anaesthetist

Fat Harvesting

Fat is collected using liposuction techniques. A fine cannula and low suction pressures are used to limit trauma to the fat cells and help maintain their viability. Donor areas are selected according to your body proportions. Donor sites may include the abdomen, flanks, and thighs.

Filtration and Preparation

Once collected, the fat is processed to separate viable fat cells from blood, fluid and damaged tissue. This step makes sure only suitable fat cells are prepared for reinjection, which supports higher long-term survival of the grafted fat.

Volumisation

The purified fat is then strategically placed into the face and chin using fine microcannulas. Our surgeons employ a multi-layered approach, depositing microdroplets of fat in different tissue planes to achieve an optimal result. Each layer is placed strategically, building volume gradually to achieve the desired result.

Yes, you will require a GP referral. As of 1 July 2023, AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) requires all patients to obtain a referral from a GP (General Practitioner).

Post-operative care is essential for optimal recovery and fat graft survival. Patients undergoing Fat Transfer to Face surgery can generally expect the following:

  • Swelling and bruising: Most swelling and bruising peak within 48–72 hours after surgery around both the donor and recipient sites. This will gradually dissipate over time. Swelling may persist at a low level for several months as tissues settle.
  • Mild discomfort: Some tenderness at both donor and recipient sites is to be expected. Patients can generally manage this with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication.
  • Activity guidelines: Light activities and walking can usually be resumed within the first week. More strenuous exercise should be avoided for 4–6 weeks to protect the grafted fat.
  • Head elevation: Sleeping with the head elevated helps reduce facial swelling during early recovery.
  • Avoiding facial pressure: Patients are advised to avoid direct pressure on the face during the healing period to support fat survival.

The final results may take several months to fully develop as transferred fat establishes its blood supply. Some resorption of fat is expected, and in certain cases, a secondary procedure may be required to achieve the desired outcome.

Your surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions and will remain available to patients during the recovery process. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor progress and address any concerns promptly, reinforcing his commitment to long-term patient care.

As with any surgical procedure, a Fat Transfer to Face surgery involves potential risks. Your surgeon will discuss potential risks and complications during your consultation as part of the informed consent process. Visit our Risks and Complications page for more information. Risks and complications can include, but are not limited to:

  • Asymmetry: Despite technique, some differences between facial sides can occur as tissues heal.
  • Fat resorption: A portion of the transferred fat will be reabsorbed by the body. Most surgeons estimate long-term retention at 60–70%, though this varies between patients.
  • Poor Scarring: Incisions may heal poorly; they may be red, raised, or develop into keloid scars.
  • Infection: As with any surgical intervention, there is a risk of infection, which is reduced through sterile surgical techniques and careful post-operative care; however, it can still occur and may require antibiotics or further treatment.
  • Fat necrosis: Occasionally, areas of transferred fat may harden. Careful handling and placement during surgery reduce this risk significantly.
  • Anaesthesia risks: Including breathing difficulties and allergic reactions.

The cost of Fat Transfer to Face surgery varies depending on several factors, including:

  • The extent of fat transfer and the specifics of the procedure.
  • Whether other procedures are being performed at the same time.
  • The hospital and surgeon fees.
  • The anaesthetist’s fees.

In Australia, cosmetic procedures performed for aesthetic reasons are generally not covered by Medicare or private health insurance. If fat transfer surgery is being considered for reconstructive purposes, partial rebates may apply depending on individual circumstances and Medicare item numbers.

FAQs ...

The longevity of fat transfer results can vary between individuals. Generally, a significant portion of the transferred fat integrates permanently into the existing tissues, while a portion is resorbed by the body over the first few months. Typically, around 60–70% of the transferred fat remains long-term. Factors such as surgical technique, the area treated, patient biology, and adherence to post-operative care instructions all influence how much of the transferred fat survives. Your surgeon will explain these variables during consultation to make sure patients have realistic expectations about the longevity of their results.

The outcome of the procedure often takes several months to fully settle, as the transferred fat integrates with the surrounding tissues and the swelling resolves.

Our surgeons advise patients that full maturation of the results may take up to six months, during which gradual changes will continue to be observed.

While many patients achieve their aesthetic goals with one procedure, some individuals may consider a secondary fat grafting session if they wish to add further volume or if a higher-than-expected amount of fat resorption occurs.

Your surgeon will discuss the potential need for staged treatments during the consultation process and during follow-up reviews. Decisions regarding further treatment are always made based on individual healing, patient goals, and clinical assessment over time.

Fat transfer can be used to address volume loss or alter the shape in several facial areas. Treated regions include the cheeks, where volume loss can cause flattening; the chin and jawline, to increase definition; and under-eye hollows, where fat grafting can soften shadowing and hollowness. Other treatment areas may include the temples, which often lose volume with age, and the nasolabial folds that deepen over time.

Your surgeon will carefully assess each patient’s facial structure to determine the areas where fat transfer can support a balanced appearance.

Recovery following fat transfer to the face and chin varies, but most patients can anticipate a period of swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort. Initial swelling often peaks within 48 to 72 hours and subsides significantly over the following two to three weeks.

Most patients return to light daily activities within 7 to 14 days, although more strenuous exercise is typically postponed for several weeks to support fat graft survival.

Your surgeon will provide tailored aftercare instructions to guide patients through their recovery, with regular follow-up to monitor healing and progress.

why choose me clinic ...

With over 35 years of experience in plastic surgery, aesthetic cosmetic medicine, and skin rejuvenation, Me Clinic is built around a simple priority: patient-first care.

We take time to understand you as an individual and curate an approach that feels meaningful and appropriate for your needs. We listen, we care, and we support you through your journey — from consultation through to aftercare.

Our team of Specialist Plastic Surgeons can advise on suitable options to address your concerns. In an ever-evolving field, we focus on evidence-informed care and contemporary treatment options, with suitability always assessed on an individual basis.

Surgeons who perform Fat Transfer to Face procedures at Me Clinic …

Book your fat transfer to face consultation ...

If you are considering Fat Transfer to Face, a consultation with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon is your opportunity to discuss your concerns, learn about suitable options, and understand what your personalised plan may involve.

For all surgical procedures, you will need a valid GP Medical Referral to have a medical or cosmetic consultation with Me Clinic’s Specialist Plastic Surgeons. To begin your journey, call 1300 852 050 or enquire via our contact form.

We look forward to hearing from you soon and answering any further questions you may have.

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