(02) 9192 1600
$0.00 0

Cart

No products in the cart.

Continue shopping

Fat Transfer & Fat Grafting

Fat transfer, also referred to as fat grafting, lipo filling, or lipostructure, is a surgical procedure in which fat is removed from an area where it is in excess, such as the abdomen or thighs, using liposuction. The fat is then prepared and placed into another area of the body for volume restoration or contouring.
Learn More
Send an Enquiry

Fat Transfer & Fat Grafting Sydney

Fat transfer, also known as fat grafting, lipo filling, or lipostructure, is a surgical procedure in which fat is removed from an area where it is in excess, such as the abdomen or thighs, using liposuction. The fat is then processed and placed into other areas of the face or body to add volume or correct contour irregularities. Commonly treated areas can include the lips, cheeks, around the eyes, chin, nose, neck, jawline, brow, temples, and certain facial folds or depressions.

What physical concerns can fat transfer surgery address?

Fat transfer can be used in a range of reconstructive and cosmetic applications. Outcomes will vary between individuals due to factors such as anatomy, the surgical technique used, healing capacity, and the amount of fat available for transfer.
  • Facial volume – May be considered for adding volume to areas such as the temples or cheeks.
  • Lip contour – Can be used to change the shape or volume of the lips.
  • Facial scarring – May assist in softening the appearance of some scars. Effectiveness can vary depending on the type and severity of scarring.
  • Post-liposuction irregularities – In certain cases, may help to correct contour irregularities following liposuction.
  • Buttock contouring – Can be performed to alter the contour or volume of the buttocks.
  • Hand contour – May be used to add volume to the hands.
  • Breast volume adjustment – Can be used for moderate volume changes in the breasts, depending on existing anatomy and available donor fat.

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.

Fat Transfer Results

Fat Transfer to Breasts by Dr Brito

Photographs shown above are actual patients from our clinic, who have given their consent for the use of their images purely for informational purposes. It is important to note that the results observed are subjective, and will differ based on each individual’s unique characteristics and the specific surgical or non-surgical techniques implemented. As with all procedures, both surgical and non-surgical, there are inherent risks involved.

Despite our efforts to maintain standardisation in our before and after photos, certain inconsistencies, such as differences in lighting, posture, facial expression, hairstyle, and make-up, may still exist between images. For a more comprehensive understanding of potential results, additional surgical result photographs can be viewed during a private consultation at our clinic located in Double Bay, NSW.

Additionally, we wish to emphasise that individual outcomes can greatly differ. The results experienced by one person should not be viewed as an exact indication of the results that others may experience. Such variations are due to a multitude of factors, including an individual’s genetics, diet, and exercise regimen.

All photos are watermarked and hold the copyright of Dr Zacharia. Any unauthorised usage or distribution is strictly prohibited.

What to Expect

Consultation

The first stage in the fat transfer process is a comprehensive consultation with the surgeon. During this appointment, your medical history, current body shape, and relevant lifestyle factors will be discussed. The surgeon will examine aspects such as skin elasticity, fat distribution, and the areas you are considering for treatment. This meeting is also an opportunity to discuss your reasons for seeking the procedure, understand the potential risks and limitations, and ask any questions you may have.

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

After a surgical plan has been agreed upon, you will be provided with tailored instructions to prepare for your fat transfer procedure. These may include guidance on diet, smoking and alcohol use, the management of any medications or supplements, and recommendations for skin care before surgery.

Surgery

Fat transfer surgery generally takes between two and four hours and is usually performed under general anaesthesia.

The procedure has two main stages:
Liposuction: Fat is removed from areas where there is a suitable amount for transfer, such as the abdomen, hips, or thighs.
Fat placement : The removed fat is processed and then carefully placed into the areas selected during the surgical planning stage to alter volume or contour.
  • Surgery Time
    2 to 4 hours
  • Hospital Time
    Day stay with an option for overnight

Recovery

Following the procedure, you will be monitored in a recovery area for a period of time. Discharge on the same day is common, although an overnight hospital stay may be recommended in some cases. Temporary swelling, bruising, and discomfort can occur and typically reduce over the days following surgery.

Many people can resume non-strenuous daily activities within one to two weeks, while more physically demanding activities are generally avoided for two to four weeks. Follow-up appointments will be arranged to review healing and recovery.

Changes in the treated areas may be seen within several weeks as swelling decreases. Final outcomes vary between individuals and may take several months to become apparent.
  • 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?
Contact us

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

Dr Kenneth Brito

MD, MSurg, FACCSM, FRACGP
Dr. Kenneth Brito is a cosmetic doctor with more than 13 years of postgraduate experience. Since earning his Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery in 2007 and his Masters of Surgery from the University of Sydney in 2012, he has continued to build his expertise through advanced training. Dr. Brito values clear communication and works closely with patients to plan treatments that prioritise safety and individual needs.
Learn more
Cosmetic Doctor
MED0001680302

Contact us

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
Contact Form - Footer - Photo Upload

Maximum file size: 6MB

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

About

Nose

Face

Body

Hair

Online Store

Legal

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
© 2025 - Facelift Plastic Surgery Sydney. All Rights Reserved.
ABN 97 651 504 710   |   Hosted by Skyrack