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Fat Transfer & Fat Grafting

Fat transfer is a cosmetic medical procedure also known as 'Fat Grafting', 'Lipo Filling', and 'Lipostructure', that involves the removal of fat from areas of excess (abdomen/thigh) via liposuction.
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Fat Transfer & Fat Grafting Sydney

Fat transfer is a cosmetic medical procedure also known as ‘Fat Grafting’, ‘Lipo Filling’, and ‘Lipostructure’, that involves the removal of fat from areas of excess (abdomen/thigh) via liposuction. Removed fat is prepared, then fat and stem cells are re-injected to attenuate certain wrinkles (nasolabial fold), as well as to rejuvenate and enhance all areas of the face. This includes the lips, cheeks around the eyes, chin, nose, neck, jawline, marionette lines, brow, upper eyelids, temples, correcting hollows and defects.

What physical concerns can fat transfer surgery help to address?

  • Facial Volume: Fat transfer can assist with restoring volume to areas of the face, such as the temples or cheeks. It's important to note that results may vary based on individual circumstances.
  • Lip Size: Some individuals may opt for fat transfer to alter the size of their lips. The outcome will depend on factors such as the individual's anatomy and the surgeon's technique.
  • Scarring: Fat transfer can help reduce the appearance of facial scars, although results can depend on the nature and severity of the scarring, and the individual's healing process.
  • Post-Liposuction Irregularities: In some cases, fat transfer may be utilised to address irregularities following a liposuction procedure. However, the outcome will depend on the individual's unique circumstances.
  • Buttock Contouring: Fat transfer can be used to alter the size and shape of the buttocks. It is important to note that results will depend on a variety of factors, including the individual's anatomy and the surgeon's technique.
  • Hand Rejuvenation: Some may consider fat transfer to address the appearance of aged or thin hands. Please note that results can vary based on individual circumstances and healing response.
  • Breast Enhancement: Fat transfer can be used as a method for moderate breast enhancement, but outcomes are subject to the individual's original breast size, anatomy and the quantity of fat available for transfer.
  • Body Contouring: Fat transfer may be utilised to improve body contour in certain areas. As with other procedures, outcomes will vary depending on factors such as the individual's anatomy and the surgical technique used.

It’s important to remember that every individual is unique and so too are their needs and desired outcomes for cosmetic surgery. If you’re considering a procedure, it’s essential to have a comprehensive consultation with one of our experienced surgeons. They can help you understand whether you’re a suitable candidate and what you can realistically expect from the surgery. The information provided here is meant to help guide you, but it’s not a replacement for professional medical advice. Always organise a consultation for personalised advice.

If you are concerned about the way you look or are thinking about cosmetic surgery for confidence reasons, there are alternatives. Talking to a counsellor or psychologist may help you overcome your concerns about your appearance.

What to Expect

Consultation

The initial step in the fat transfer and fat grafting process is a detailed consultation with our experienced surgeon. During this meeting, your aesthetic goals, medical history, and current body shape will be evaluated. The surgeon will assess your skin elasticity, fat distribution, and the areas where augmentation is desired. This consultation is an ideal opportunity for you to voice any concerns or ask any questions you may have about the procedure.

Number and type of consultation
It is a requirement under the law, that a patient seeking cosmetic surgery must have at least two pre-operative consultations. The patient’s first consultation must be with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery or another registered health practitioner who works with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery (not a patient advisor or an agent). At least one of the two consultations must be in person with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery. Other consultations can be in person or by video.

When consent can be given
A patient must not be requested to sign consent forms at their first consultation and cannot consent to cosmetic surgery until they have had an in-person consultation with the medical practitioner who will perform the surgery. The decision to have the surgery (provision of informed consent) must be made at a consultation with the medical practitioner who will perform the procedure (in person or by video).

Cooling-off Period
There must be a cooling-off period of at least seven days after the patient has had two consultations and given informed consent (signed consent forms), before the surgery can be booked or a deposit paid.

Preparation

Once you and the surgeon have agreed on the surgical plan, you will receive specific instructions on how to prepare for your fat transfer and fat grafting surgery. These may include dietary guidelines, advice on smoking and alcohol consumption, specific instructions about medications or supplements, and skincare recommendations.

Surgery

Fat transfer and fat grafting surgery usually takes two to four hours and is typically performed under general anesthesia. The procedure involves two main stages: liposuction and fat grafting. During liposuction, fat is harvested from areas of your body with excess fat, such as the abdomen, hips, or thighs. This harvested fat is then purified and prepared for transfer. In the fat grafting stage, the purified fat is meticulously injected into the desired areas to enhance volume and shape.
  • Surgery Time
    2 to 4 hours
  • Hospital Time
    Day stay with an option for overnight

Recovery

After the surgery, you’ll be monitored in a recovery room for a short period. Most patients can go home the same day, though an overnight hospital stay may occasionally be recommended. Swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are normal but will begin to subside after a few days.

Most patients feel ready to return to non-strenuous daily activities within a week or two, while more vigorous activities should be avoided for about two to four weeks. Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and ensure a smooth recovery.

The final results of your fat transfer and fat grafting surgery will be noticeable within a few weeks once the swelling has completely subsided, but the full effect may not be apparent for several months as the treated areas continue to heal and settle into their new contour.
  • Time off work
    1 to 2 weeks
  • Exercise
    4 to 6 weeks
  • Showering
    Can shower next day, however incisions must stay dry
  • Driving
    24 hours after general anaesthetic and not while taking prescribed pain relief. We also recommend checking with your CTA insurer as to the post surgery exclusion period.
  • Travel
    After 7 days for national and 4 weeks for international
  • Full Recovery
    6 to 12 months for final results

Send an Enquiry

Want to ask a question or organisation a consultation?
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Our Fat Transfer Surgeon

Dr Michael Zacharia

MBBS, FRACS, FAAFPS, ACCS
Dr Michael Zacharia is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, Head and Neck (Otolaryngology) and practices in Facial Plastic Surgery. He is also an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) physician and has completed over 8,000 procedures, with over 4,000 being Rhinoplasty. Combining the latest medical, surgical and health techniques, Dr Zacharia strives to deliver the best outcome for each and every one of his patients.
Learn more
Cosmetic Surgeon & ENT Specialist
MED0001178357

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Make an Enquiry

Get in touch today to organise a consultation or to find out more information.

Our team will give you a call to discuss your enquiry and we will then send you any relevant information via email.
You will need a GP referral for surgical procedures. AHPRA require all patients having a surgical cosmetic or medical procedure to have a GP referral. You can fax your referral to 02 8072 6824 or email office@drzacharia.com.au
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You will need a GP referral for surgical procedures. AHPRA require all patients having a surgical cosmetic or medical procedure to have a GP referral. You can fax your referral to 02 8072 6824 or email office@drzacharia.com.au

Considerations Before Cosmetic Surgery

While we aim to provide accurate information about the different surgical procedures available, it’s important to understand that the content provided here serves as a general guide only. The specifics of each surgery, including the procedure detailed above, can and will vary significantly from person to person, depending on their unique circumstances and physical characteristics.

Undergoing cosmetic surgery is a serious decision that requires ample thought, careful consideration, and meticulous planning. It should never be taken lightly or treated trivially, as it can have profound impacts on one’s lifestyle and wellbeing.

Recovery from cosmetic surgery, too, requires time, support, and proper aftercare. We strive to present realistic and transparent information about the recovery process, but individual experiences may vary. It is typical for recovery to involve certain services or requirements, such as the use of compression garments or receiving therapeutic massages. It also often necessitates significant lifestyle changes, which may include a period of absence from employment and temporary restrictions on certain activities.

In light of these considerations, we strongly encourage potential patients to engage in comprehensive discussions with their GP and our surgeons. The goal is to fully understand the implications, requirements, and likely outcomes of any chosen procedure, and to make informed decisions about their health and aesthetics.

For more information on preparing for cosmetic surgery visit health.gov.au/cosmeticsurgery

General risks and complications

  • Substantial Hemorrhage: This involves severe blood loss from the area that underwent surgery, which may necessitate additional medical interventions.
  • Susceptibility to Infection: Post-surgery, the risk of infection can rise, potentially requiring either antibiotic treatment or subsequent surgical interventions.
  • Allergic Responses: Patients may exhibit allergic reactions to medical materials such as sutures, dressings, or antiseptic solutions used during and after the procedure.
  • Hematoma Formation: This involves the development of a sizable clot of blood beneath the incision site, which may necessitate medical drainage.
  • Post-Surgical Discomfort: Patients may experience pain, bruising, and swelling in the area surrounding the surgical site.
  • Scar Development: There's a risk of developing keloids or hypertrophic scars, which are elevated, red, and thickened scars over the healed incisions. Though they can be bothersome and aesthetically displeasing, they don't pose a direct health threat.
  • Delayed Healing Process: Healing can be sluggish, especially in patients with pre-existing conditions like diabetes or those who smoke.
  • Anaesthesia Risks: Patients may experience short-term nausea following general anaesthesia, along with other potential risks associated with anaesthesia.

Fat transfer surgery risks

  • Fat Absorption: A certain amount of the transferred fat may be naturally reabsorbed by the body, which can diminish the results and require additional procedures.
  • Asymmetry: Uneven results may occur due to different rates of healing or fat absorption in the transferred areas.
  • Over or Under-Correction: There may be too much or too little fat removed or transferred, leading to an undesirable aesthetic outcome.
  • Oil Cyst Formation: Fat necrosis, or the death of fat cells, can lead to oil cyst formation, which may require further treatment.
  • Irregular Contours: Skin may appear wavy, bumpy, or have irregularities due to changes in the body's fat layers or uneven fat removal or injection.
  • Fat Embolism: There is a rare but severe risk of fat embolism, where injected fat enters the bloodstream and can cause life-threatening conditions.
  • Changes in Skin Sensation: There may be temporary or permanent changes in skin sensation in the areas where fat was removed or injected.
  • Infection at the Harvest Site: Though it is covered under general infection risk, it's worth noting the donor site specifically may get infected, requiring additional treatment.

Contact Facelift Plastic Surgery

Dr Zacharia
Level 1 /424 New South Head Road
Double Bay, NSW 2028

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AHPRA Registration

  • Dr Michael Zacharia MED0001178357 - Otolaryngology
  • Dr Kenneth Brito MED0001680302 - General Practice
  • Dr Ahmed Alsultan MED0001647273 - General Practice
Disclaimer: Surgical and invasive procedures are not an exact science and they carry risks. Results vary with each patient depending on their age, health, weight, hormones and lifestyle. Please note that results are not permanent solutions and will change as your body changes over the years. After you consult with Team MZ, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner
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