Led by Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Qadir Khan (FRACS)
Fat transfer to face surgery, also known as facial fat grafting, is a procedure that uses a person’s own fat to restore volume and improve facial contour. It involves a Specialist Plastic Surgeon removing fat from areas such as the abdomen or thighs using liposuction, processing it, and then carefully injecting it into specific areas of the face.
Facial fat transfer is commonly used to address volume loss associated with ageing, weight changes, or facial asymmetry. Areas often treated include the cheeks, temples, under-eye region, jawline, and around the mouth. Unlike temporary injectable treatments, fat transfer uses living tissue, and a portion of the transferred fat can survive long-term.
Fat transfer to face surgery offers a personalised approach to restoring facial volume using the patient’s own tissue. The procedure focuses on subtle enhancement and contour refinement, with outcomes shaped by individual anatomy and careful surgical planning.
One of the key benefits of facial fat transfer is the use of the patient’s own fat, eliminating the need for synthetic or manufactured materials. This approach may suit individuals who prefer a treatment that uses natural tissue for facial volume restoration.
Facial fat transfer allows precise placement of small volumes of fat into targeted areas. This can help soften transitions between facial features, improve balance, and address areas of volume loss or contour irregularity.
Fat grafting enables careful, layered placement to refine specific areas of the face. This level of control can be useful for addressing mild facial asymmetry or uneven contours identified during clinical assessment.
Fat is harvested from areas such as the abdomen or thighs using liposuction. This can result in improved contour at the donor site, offering a secondary benefit when the procedure is planned appropriately.
An ideal candidate for fat transfer to face surgery is generally in good overall health and seeking volume restoration rather than dramatic facial change. This procedure is often suitable for individuals experiencing age-related facial volume loss, hollowing, or asymmetry.
Candidates need to have sufficient donor fat available and maintain a stable body weight, as weight changes can affect long-term results. Non-smokers or those willing to stop smoking are preferred, as smoking can affect healing and fat survival.
Suitability for facial fat grafting in Perth is determined through clinical examination, discussion of goals, and careful consideration of benefits and limitations. A personalised consultation helps clarify whether this approach aligns with individual needs.
At West Coast Plastic Surgery, every breast reduction procedure is performed with the utmost care and precision. Here is a general overview of the steps involved in a typical reduction mammoplasty:
Fat transfer to face surgery may be performed under general anaesthesia or local anaesthesia with sedation, depending on the extent of treatment. The anaesthetic approach is discussed during consultation, and an experienced team monitors you closely throughout the procedure.
Fat is gently removed from selected donor areas such as the abdomen, flanks, or thighs using liposuction. Small incisions are used, and care is taken to preserve fat cell viability for transfer.
Once harvested, the fat is processed to remove excess fluid and damaged cells. This step prepares the fat for reinjection and supports better integration into the facial tissues.
The processed fat is injected into targeted areas of the face in small amounts and layered carefully. This technique supports blood supply to the transferred fat and allows precise contour refinement.
Incisions at donor and injection sites are small and are typically closed with fine sutures or adhesive strips. Dressings may be applied, and post-operative instructions are provided before discharge.
It’s important to remember that each facial fat transfer procedure is customised to the patient’s individual needs and goals. The exact steps of your procedure may vary slightly. We will ensure you understand your personalised surgical plan before the day of your procedure.
Mr Khan then moved to Perth, Australia in 2007. He was selected for the highly competitive specialist training programme in Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery in 2014. After the successful completion of his fellowship with the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons in early 2019, he travelled to Brisbane and Newcastle Upon Tyne, England for post-training fellowships in Head & Neck Surgery, Microsurgery, Facial palsy and Sarcoma.
Mr Khan has published in the peer-reviewed Plastic Surgery journal, presented at national and international conferences and has been part of the training faculty in international plastic surgery flap reconstruction courses in the UK.
Qualifications:
Recovery from fat transfer to face takes time and patience. At West Coast Plastic Surgery, we are committed to supporting you through every stage of your recovery.
You will receive detailed aftercare instructions covering wound care, medications, warning signs to watch for, and follow-up appointments. Following these guidelines closely is essential for optimal healing and results.
Some discomfort is normal after surgery and can be effectively managed with prescribed medication. We will also advise you on proper positioning when sitting or lying down to help minimise discomfort.
Proper care of your incisions is crucial to prevent infection and promote healing. This may include cleaning the area, changing dressings, and applying treatments as directed.
Physical activity should be limited during the initial recovery period. Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting, and gradually resume activities based on our team’s guidance.
Every patient’s recovery is unique and depends on individual health and the procedure performed. Our team will closely monitor your progress and remain available to answer any questions or concerns throughout your recovery.
All surgical procedures carry risks. Potential risks and complications of fat transfer to face surgery may include:
Fat transfer to face recovery time varies between individuals. Swelling and bruising of the face and donor areas are common during the first one to two weeks. Many patients return to light activities within several days, while strenuous exercise is usually avoided for two to four weeks. Follow-up appointments support recovery monitoring. Book a consultation at our Perth clinic to discuss recovery expectations.
Once transferred fat establishes a blood supply, results can be long lasting. However, some fat reabsorption is expected in the early months, and final outcomes become clearer over time. Long-term results are influenced by weight stability and individual healing. During consultation, realistic expectations are discussed using clinical examples. Contact our Perth clinic for a consult with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon to learn more about long-term outcomes.
Fat transfer to the face does not usually prevent future non-surgical or surgical facial treatments. However, it is important to inform healthcare providers about prior facial fat grafting. Your surgeon will discuss how fat transfer fits into long-term facial care planning. To receive personalised advice based on your treatment goals, book your consultation at our Perth clinic.
Yes. Fat transfer to face before and after photos are available to view during your consultation, where clinically appropriate. Reviewing images in person allows explanation of realistic outcomes and variability between patients. This supports informed decision-making. To view examples and discuss expected results, contact our Perth clinic to book a consultation.
The cost of fat transfer to the face varies depending on the number of areas treated, extent of liposuction, anaesthesia requirements, and hospital fees. As the procedure is personalised, a detailed cost estimate is provided after consultation. Transparent discussion of costs forms part of informed consent. To receive a personalised assessment and cost outline, book an appointment at our Perth clinic.
Fat transfer to face surgery is designed for subtle volume restoration rather than dramatic enlargement. The amount of volume achieved depends on facial anatomy, donor fat availability, and how much transferred fat survives long-term. This approach allows gradual and natural contour improvement. During consultation at our Perth clinic, your surgeon will explain realistic expectations based on clinical assessment. Contact us to book a consultation.
