Lipotransfer (Fat Transfer)

Lipotransfer, commonly known as fat transfer, uses your own body tissue to restore volume in areas that have thinned or flattened over time. Ms Tzafetta uses this technique to soften contours, rebalance facial proportions and support a fresher, healthier appearance.

As we age, the face gradually loses volume. Cheeks can appear flatter, the jawline more angular, and the face may take on a tired or drawn look. Weight changes and genetic factors also influence where and how volume loss shows itself.

Rather than tightening skin alone, fat transfer replenishes lost volume. By reintroducing your own fat cells to carefully selected areas, Ms Tzafetta aims to restore natural facial contours in a subtle, long-lasting way.

When fat transfer may help

You may consider fat transfer if you feel concerned about:

loss of volume in the cheeks or mid-face
hollowing around the eyes or temples
a sunken or drawn facial appearance
volume loss following weight change or ageing
uneven distribution of facial fat

Fat transfer does not aim to alter facial identity. Treatment focuses on restoring softness and balance so the face looks healthier and more rested.

A considered approach to volume restoration

Fat transfer differs from dermal fillers (injectable volume treatments) because it uses living tissue from your own body. This procedure allows transferred fat to integrate naturally within the treated area.

Ms Tzafetta approaches fat transfer with restraint and careful judgment. She considers facial anatomy, skin quality and how restored volume will behave over time, rather than aiming for immediate fullness. Because not all transferred fat survives, Ms Tzafetta plans volume restoration thoughtfully to minimise the risk of overcorrection or unnatural results.

Fat transfer techniques

Fat transfer involves three main stages:

harvesting fat from a donor area
preparing the fat for transfer
placing fat into areas needing volume

Ms Tzafetta tailors each stage to suit your anatomy and treatment goals.

Fat transfer surgery

During fat transfer surgery, Ms Tzafetta harvests fat from areas such as the abdomen, hips or thighs using gentle suction techniques. Small cannulas help reduce trauma to the fat cells during removal. She then prepares the fat and carefully injects it into targeted areas of the face or body to restore volume and contour. Once transferred, surviving fat cells establish a blood supply and become part of the surrounding tissue.

Fat transfer is usually performed as a day-case procedure. Depending on the extent of treatment, Ms Tzafetta may use local anaesthesia, sedation or general anaesthesia. Swelling and bruising can occur at both the donor and treatment sites and settle gradually.

Your fat transfer consultation

A consultation with Kalliroi Tzafetta will help you determine whether fat transfer is a good fit for your needs.

During this appointment, you can discuss areas where you have noticed volume loss and the changes you hope treatment might achieve.

Ms Tzafetta will:

review your medical history and current medications
assess donor areas for adequate fat
examine facial structure and skin quality
explain realistic outcomes and limitations
discuss risks, recovery and long-term expectations

This conversation gives you the information you need to decide whether fat transfer feels right for you.

Recovery and expectations

Recovery depends on the extent of treatment and the areas involved, but most people experience swelling and bruising in the early stages, which gradually improve over the first two weeks.

Many people feel comfortable returning to desk-based work within 5 to 10 days, although visible swelling or bruising may still be present. Those with more physically demanding roles may need a little longer. Ms Tzafetta will give personalised guidance based on your treatment plan and occupation.

Exercise and more strenuous activity usually resume after 2 to 4 weeks, once early healing has progressed. Final results continue to develop over several months as transferred fat settles and integrates into the surrounding tissue.

Fat transfer aims to provide long-lasting improvement. Some natural fat resorption occurs, and a small number of people may consider further treatment to refine results.

Understanding limitations

Fat transfer restores volume but does not stop the ageing process or tighten significantly loose skin.

If other concerns contribute to facial ageing, Ms Tzafetta may discuss whether additional procedures, such as a facelift or eyelid surgery, could help improve overall balance. Each treatment plan reflects individual anatomy, goals, and the quality of the long-term outcome.

A specialist, measured approach

Under the care of Ms Tzafetta, fat transfer surgery centres on anatomical accuracy, facial harmony and durability of results.

Her background in reconstructive and facial surgery supports an evidence-based approach that prioritises safety, realism and long-term satisfaction.

Fat Transfer FAQs

How long does fat transfer surgery take?

Fat transfer surgery usually takes between 1 to 3 hours, depending on how many areas require treatment and whether it is combined with other procedures. Ms Tzafetta will explain the expected duration during your consultation.

Will I need a general anaesthetic?

Fat transfer can be performed under local anaesthetic, sedation or general anaesthetic, depending on the extent of treatment. Ms Tzafetta will recommend the safest and most appropriate option for you during consultation.

How long will I need off work?

Many people feel comfortable returning to desk-based work within 5 to 10 days, although some visible swelling or bruising may still be present.

If your role involves physical activity, lifting or prolonged standing, you may need a little longer before returning to work. Ms Tzafetta will give personalised advice based on your treatment plan and occupation.

How soon can I exercise again?

Light activity, such as walking, can usually resume after the first week. More strenuous exercise and gym-based activity typically wait 2 to 4 weeks, once early healing has progressed. Ms Tzafetta will guide you on a safe return to exercise.

Is fat transfer painful?

Most people describe recovery as uncomfortable rather than painful. Swelling, bruising and tenderness usually peak in the first few days and improve steadily. Pain relief medication helps manage early discomfort.

Will there be visible scars?

Fat transfer uses very small incisions at both the donor and treatment sites. These usually heal well and become less noticeable over time. Ms Tzafetta places incisions carefully to minimise scarring.

When will I see the results?

Early improvements appear once swelling settles, usually within a few weeks. Final results continue to develop over several months as transferred fat settles and integrates into the surrounding tissue.

Will the transferred fat last?

Some transferred fat does not survive, which is a normal part of the process. Fat cells that establish a blood supply tend to remain long-term. Ms Tzafetta plans treatment carefully to account for natural fat resorption.

Can fat transfer look overfilled or unnatural?

Fat transfer aims to restore natural contours rather than create exaggerated fullness. Ms Tzafetta uses a measured approach to support facial balance and avoid overcorrection.

Can fat transfer replace dermal fillers?

Fat transfer can offer a longer-lasting alternative to dermal fillers (injectable volume treatments) for some people. Ms Tzafetta will discuss which option best suits your anatomy, goals and lifestyle.

Can fat transfer be combined with other procedures?

Yes. Fat transfer is often combined with procedures such as a facelift (rhytidectomy) or eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) when this helps improve overall facial balance. Ms Tzafetta will advise on the combination that makes sense for you.

Who performs fat transfer surgery?

Ms Tzafetta performs fat transfer surgery with a focus on anatomical accuracy, facial harmony and long-term outcome quality. Her background in reconstructive and facial surgery supports careful planning and durable results.

When should I consider fat transfer?

You may consider fat transfer if volume loss affects how you feel about your appearance and you prefer a natural, tissue-based approach. A consultation with Ms Tzafetta can help clarify whether fat transfer suits your goals.

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