Facial fat transfer (lipofilling)

Purpose of the procedure

Loss of facial fullness is one of the earliest and most visible signs of ageing. From around the age of 30–35, the layer of fat beneath the skin gradually decreases. The cheeks begin to sag, the temples become hollow and the face loses its natural contours. This can make a person look tired or stern even when they feel energetic. Facial fat transfer restores natural fullness, smooths the skin and creates a more youthful appearance using the patient’s own tissue. The result is soft and natural-looking – the face appears refreshed and well rested, not visibly treated. “Fat transfer is like giving your skin a new lease of life – using your own cells.” – Dr Simmo

Course of the procedure

The procedure is performed in two stages:

1. Fat harvesting – a small amount of fatty tissue is taken from a donor area, usually the abdomen or hips
2. Fat preparation and transfer – the fat is purified by filtering or centrifugation and then carefully injected into selected areas of the face

The procedure is commonly used to correct:

• Sagging cheeks and hollow temples
• Dark circles and hollows beneath the eyes
• The jawline and nasolabial folds (the area around the corners of the mouth)

As a rule, up to 20 ml of fat is injected into each side of the face to achieve a natural-looking result. The survival of the transferred fat depends on both the precision of the technique and individual factors. The procedure may therefore be repeated where necessary. Fat transfer may also be combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment, which can improve skin quality and support the survival of the transferred fat cells.

Consultation and preparation

During the consultation, Dr Simmo will assess the anatomy of the face, the condition of the skin and the suitability of the fatty tissue in the donor areas. Together, you will discuss which areas would benefit from treatment and what results can realistically be expected. During the consultation, you will learn:

• How much fat will be transferred
• How long recovery is expected to take
• What alternative options are available
• How to maintain the result for longer

 How to prepare for your consultation

Anaesthesia

Facial fat transfer is usually performed under local anaesthesia. Where larger areas are treated – for example, when the neck is included – general anaesthesia may be used. The surgeon will determine the most suitable option during the consultation.

Recovery and aftercare

• Mild swelling and bruising may occur after the procedure and subside within three to seven days.
• The swelling may initially appear uneven, but this normally resolves over the following weeks.
• Make-up can usually be applied after a few days.
• You can generally return to work after two to five days, depending on the extent of the procedure.
• The final result becomes visible within two to three months, once the transferred fat cells have become established.

Dr Simmo will provide detailed instructions on skin care and when you can resume physical activity.

Possible side effects and risks

Fat transfer is considered safe because it uses the patient’s own tissue. Possible but uncommon risks include:

• Swelling and bruising
• Asymmetry or partial absorption of the transferred fat
• Infection or changes in skin sensation

If some of the transferred fat is absorbed, the procedure can be repeated or a smaller follow-up transfer can be performed.