About Dr. William Watfa
Dr. William Watfa is a board-certified plastic surgeon known for his refined aesthetic vision, technical precision, and forward-thinking approach to modern plastic surgery. With a practice spanning Beirut and Dubai, he has established himself as a trusted name among both local and international patients seeking natural, elegant, and minimally invasive results. His work is deeply rooted in a philosophy that prioritizes tissue preservation, rapid recovery, and harmony between form and function.
After completing his medical training and specialization in plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgery, Dr. Watfa developed a strong interest in advanced surgical techniques that reduce patient downtime while maintaining high standards of safety and outcomes. Over the years, he has gained extensive experience across a wide range of procedures, including breast surgery, facial rejuvenation, and body contouring. His clinical practice is complemented by an active role in education, as he regularly trains and mentors surgeons worldwide in innovative techniques, particularly in the field of breast augmentation.
Dr. Watfa is internationally recognized as a global trainer for minimally invasive breast enhancement procedures, including the MIA Femtech technique and the PRESERVE approach. These techniques represent a paradigm shift in breast surgery, moving away from more invasive traditional methods toward refined procedures that respect the natural anatomy of the breast. By preserving ligaments, maintaining tissue integrity, and minimizing disruption to surrounding structures, these approaches allow for more natural results, reduced pain, and faster recovery times. In selected cases, procedures can even be performed under local anesthesia, offering patients a unique experience with minimal interruption to their daily lives.
A key element of Dr. Watfa’s philosophy is customization. He believes that every patient is unique and that surgical planning should be tailored to individual anatomy, lifestyle, and expectations. During consultations, he places strong emphasis on listening carefully to the patient’s concerns and goals, ensuring that the proposed treatment plan aligns with their vision while remaining medically sound. This personalized approach helps build trust and allows patients to feel fully informed and confident in their decisions.
In addition to his expertise in breast surgery, Dr. Watfa is highly skilled in facial procedures such as blepharoplasty, as well as body contouring techniques including liposuction and energy-assisted technologies. He has developed particular interest in combining traditional surgical methods with modern technologies, such as laser-assisted lipolysis, to enhance precision and optimize outcomes. His approach consistently aims to achieve natural-looking results that enhance the patient’s features without appearing overdone.
Safety and quality of care are central to Dr. Watfa’s practice. He operates in accredited medical facilities and adheres to strict protocols to ensure optimal patient outcomes. Preoperative evaluation, including imaging when necessary, is an integral part of his process, allowing for thorough planning and risk minimization. Postoperative follow-up is equally important, with close monitoring to ensure proper healing and patient satisfaction.
Beyond the operating room, Dr. Watfa is actively involved in research and academic contributions to the field of plastic surgery. He participates in international conferences, presents clinical findings, and collaborates with peers to advance surgical knowledge and techniques. His work often focuses on comparing traditional and minimally invasive approaches, contributing to the growing body of evidence supporting tissue-preserving strategies.
What truly distinguishes Dr. Watfa is his holistic vision of aesthetic medicine. He views plastic surgery not only as a means of physical enhancement but as a tool to improve overall well-being, confidence, and quality of life. His approach integrates physical, emotional, and social aspects of health, aligning with modern definitions of wellness. This perspective allows him to guide patients responsibly, including advising against procedures when expectations are unrealistic or when surgery may not be the best option.
In an era where aesthetic standards are constantly evolving, Dr. Watfa remains committed to authenticity and balance. He avoids trends that compromise long-term outcomes and instead focuses on timeless, natural results that age gracefully. His patients often appreciate his honest communication, meticulous attention to detail, and dedication to delivering results that feel both subtle and transformative.
Through a combination of surgical expertise, innovative thinking, and genuine patient care, Dr. William Watfa continues to redefine the standards of modern plastic surgery, offering a sophisticated and patient-focused experience that meets the expectations of today’s discerning patients.
NATIONALITY
Lebanese
MAIN FIELD OF EXPERTISE
Breast and minimal invasive procedures
LANGUAGES SPOKEN
– ENGLISH
– ARABIC
– FRENCH
YEARS IN PRACTICE
13 Years
TELEMEDICINE
Yes
CONDITIONS COMMONLY TREATED
– Breast hypomastia (small or underdeveloped breasts)
– Breast asymmetry
– Loss of breast volume after pregnancy or weight loss
– Breast ptosis (sagging breasts)
– Capsular contracture
– Implant malposition
– Implant rupture or aging implants requiring exchange
– Desire for minimally invasive breast augmentation
– Desire for natural-looking breast enhancement
– Post-pregnancy breast changes (mommy makeover indications)
– Skin laxity of the breasts
– Upper eyelid dermatochalasis (excess eyelid skin)
– Brow ptosis
– Periorbital aging (tired eye appearance)
– Fine wrinkles and skin laxity of the face
– Facial volume loss
– Early signs of facial aging
– Localized fat deposits (abdomen, flanks, thighs, arms, double chin)
– Submental fullness (double chin)
– Skin laxity after weight loss
– Mild to moderate body contour irregularities
– Desire for body sculpting and contour refinement
– Excess skin lesions (moles, cysts, benign skin tumors)
– Scars and scar revisions
– Post-surgical contour deformities
– Desire for minimally invasive aesthetic procedures
– Patients seeking fast recovery procedures with minimal downtime
– Patients seeking natural, tissue-preserving aesthetic results
KEY PROCEDURES / TREATMENTS OFFERED
– Minimally invasive breast augmentation (MIA Femtech technique)
– Tissue-preserving breast augmentation (PRESERVE technique)
– Hybrid breast augmentation (implant with fat grafting)
– Breast lift (mastopexy) with or without implants
– Breast implant exchange and revision surgery
– Capsular contracture treatment
– Correction of breast asymmetry
– Upper blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery under local anesthesia)
– Brow lift (direct or minimally invasive approaches)
– Facial rejuvenation procedures
– Minor facial surgical procedures
– Liposuction (body contouring)
– Laser-assisted lipolysis (LaserTight / “Red Dot” technique)
– Endolift laser treatments (skin tightening and fat reduction)
– Double chin removal (submental liposuction with laser)
– Body contouring with fat reshaping
– Fat grafting (lipofilling) for face and body
– Combination procedures (liposuction + fat transfer)
– Mole excision and skin lesion removal
– Scar revision procedures
– Minor surgical procedures under local anesthesia
– Non-surgical aesthetic treatments (Botox, fillers)
– Skin quality improvement treatments
– Customized minimally invasive procedures with rapid recovery protocols
EDUCATION & TRAINING
- Doctor of Medicine (MD)
Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, University of Balamand, Lebanon - Bachelor of Science (BS), Major in Biology
American University of Beirut (AUB), Lebanon - Specialization in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland - Fellow of the European Board of Plastic Surgery (EBOPRAS)
Groningen, Netherlands - Swiss Senology Diploma
Switzerland - Fellowship in Aesthetic Surgery
LaClinic-Montreux, Switzerland - Fellowship in Microsurgery
Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland - Extensive Surgical Training (Residency & Internship)
St. George Hospital, University of Balamand, Lebanon
Rotations in neurosurgery, vascular surgery, general surgery, orthopedics, cardiothoracic surgery, urology, emergency medicine, and intensive care - International Clinical Training
Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust (Chelsea and Westminster Hospital & Charing Cross Hospital), London, United Kingdom
American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC), Lebanon - Advanced Courses and Masterclasses
Motiva Evolution Masterclass in Advanced Breast Surgery Techniques, Cyprus
Facial Aesthetic Dissection Course, University of Lausanne, Switzerland
Advanced Injection Training (Botulinum Toxin and Hyaluronic Acid), United Kingdom and Switzerland
Minimal Undermining Suspension Technique (MUST), University of Lausanne, Switzerland
AO North America – Hand and Wrist Fracture Management, Seattle, USA - Advanced Life Support Certification
St. George Hospital University Medical Center, Lebanon
HOSPITALS | HEALTH SYSTEM AFFILIATIONS
- St. George Hospital University Medical Center (SGHUMC), Beirut, Lebanon
Attending Plastic Surgeon - St. George University of Beirut, Lebanon
Program Director of Plastic Surgery Residency
Assistant Professor of Clinical Surgery - Hayek Hospital, Beirut, Lebanon
Operating Plastic Surgeon - Sama Beirut Clinic, Beirut, Lebanon
Private Practice - Crystal Care Clinic, Beirut, Lebanon
Aesthetic Practice - Neovie Clinic, Dbayeh, Lebanon
Consultation and Aesthetic Procedures - Highness Clinics, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, UAE
Plastic Surgeon - BioLite Clinic, Dubai, UAE
Visiting Plastic Surgeon - Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Hospital, Dubai, UAE
Affiliated Plastic Surgeon - CosmoSurge, Dubai, UAE
Affiliated Plastic Surgeon
BOARD CERTIFIED
Yes
RESEARCH ACTIVITY
Dr. William Watfa is actively involved in clinical research and academic contributions in the field of plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgery. His work focuses on advancing surgical techniques, optimizing patient outcomes, and promoting evidence-based approaches, particularly in breast surgery, microsurgery, and tissue preservation. He has authored and co-authored numerous peer-reviewed publications indexed in PubMed, covering a wide range of topics including breast surgery techniques, microsurgical reconstruction, lymphatic surgery, wound healing, and aesthetic outcomes. His research includes both clinical studies and systematic reviews, contributing to the scientific understanding of surgical innovations and long-term patient results .
His academic work includes studies on breast reduction and mastopexy techniques, evaluation of nipple-areolar complex outcomes, and development of surgical strategies such as the hammock technique for improved breast support and shape. He has also contributed to research in complex reconstructive procedures, including free flap surgery, abdominal wall reconstruction, and lymphatic leak management. Dr. Watfa has been involved in research related to transgender surgery, including outcomes and techniques in gender-affirming procedures, reflecting his broad surgical expertise and commitment to multidisciplinary care. In addition, his work in microsurgery has explored reinnervation outcomes and advanced reconstructive approaches using anterolateral thigh flaps and other techniques.
He has participated in basic science research, including laboratory work on wound healing, immunofluorescence, and molecular biology, contributing to a deeper understanding of tissue regeneration and repair mechanisms. Dr. Watfa is a regular contributor to international conferences and scientific meetings, where he presents clinical data, shares surgical innovations, and engages in academic discussions with peers worldwide. His research presentations often focus on minimally invasive breast augmentation, tissue-preserving techniques, and complication management, reflecting his commitment to continuous improvement and innovation in aesthetic surgery.
Through his combined clinical and academic work, Dr. Watfa continues to contribute to the evolution of modern plastic surgery, bridging the gap between research and practice to deliver safer, more effective, and patient-centered treatments.
FAQs
1. What makes your breast augmentation techniques different?
I specialize in minimally invasive and tissue-preserving techniques such as MIA Femtech and PRESERVE. These approaches respect the natural anatomy of the breast, maintain ligament integrity, and allow for more natural results with less pain and faster recovery compared to traditional methods.
2. How long is the recovery after surgery?
Recovery depends on the procedure, but most of my techniques are designed for rapid return to daily life. Many patients resume normal activities within a few days and light physical activity within 1–2 weeks, especially with minimally invasive approaches.
3. Will I have visible scars?
Scarring is minimized as much as possible. In some cases, such as MIA Femtech, the incision is hidden in the armpit and can be almost invisible. With PRESERVE, the scar is very small (around 2 cm) and placed discreetly in the inframammary fold.
4. Are the results natural-looking?
Yes. My philosophy focuses on achieving natural, harmonious results that respect your body proportions. I use advanced implants and techniques that mimic the softness and movement of natural breast tissue.
5. Is it safe to undergo these procedures?
Safety is my top priority. All procedures are performed in accredited medical facilities with strict protocols. Each patient undergoes a thorough evaluation, including imaging when needed, to ensure optimal planning and minimize risks.
QUOTES
“I don’t change bodies — I preserve them, enhance them, and respect their natural anatomy.”
“The best result in plastic surgery is the one you don’t notice — natural, balanced, and truly yours.”
PUBLICATIONS
- Abdominal-Based Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction: How to Inset the Flap to Maximize the Aesthetic Result
https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12196135
– 2023 – Sapino G, Tay SK, Maruccia M, Nanhekhan L, Watfa W, Mantovani GP, Guillier D, Tedeschi P, Bramhall R, Di Summa PG - Rectus Muscle Plication in Mini-abdominoplasty with Umbilicus Preservation
https://doi.org/10.1097/GOX.0000000000004998
– 2023 – El Israwi D, Watfa W - Lower Limb Soft Tissue Reconstruction Using Free ALT Flaps: Multimodal Parameter Analysis
https://doi.org/10.1080/2000656X.2023.2172025
– 2023 – Watfa W, Sörelius K, Campisi C, Oranges CM, Raffoul W, Di Summa PG - Comments on Algorithmic Approach to Lymphatic Leak after Vascular Reconstruction
https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0043-1761160
– 2023 – Watfa W, Sörelius K, Campisi C, Oranges CM, Raffoul W, Di Summa PG - Long-term Evaluation of Nipple-Areolar Complex Changes in Reduction Mammoplasty
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjps.2021.11.007
– 2021 – Watfa W, Martineau J, Giordano S, Sapino G, Bramhall RJ, Di Summa PG - Outcomes and Complications of Traumatic Earlobe Repair Techniques
https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.14223
– 2021 – Nassour N, Watfa W - Evaluation of Long-term Breast Shape in Reduction Mammoplasty
https://doi.org/10.21037/gs-20-440
– 2021 – Sapino G, Haselbach D, Watfa W, Baudoin J, Martineau J, Guillier D, Di Summa PG - Surgical Treatment of Symmastia: Systematic Review
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjps.2020.08.138
– 2020 – Guillier D, Sapino G, Watfa W, Raffoul W, Di Summa PG - Anterolateral Thigh Flap with Vascularized Fascia Lata in Fournier Gangrene Reconstruction
https://doi.org/10.1097/SAP.0000000000002533
– 2020 – Guiotto M, Watfa W, Raffoul W, Di Summa PG - Microanastomotic Coupler Device for Arterial Anastomosis in Free Tissue Transfer
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjoms.2020.06.019
– 2020 – El Baba B, Watfa W, Youssef L, Di Summa PG, Bou Khalil P, Jurjus AR - Lymphatic Leaks of the Thigh and Inguinal Region: Treatment Algorithm
https://doi.org/10.1097/SAP.0000000000002310
– 2020 – Watfa W, Campisi C, Ryan M, Matter M, Cherix S, Sörelius K, Raffoul W, Di Summa PG - Dermal Triangular Flaps to Prevent Pseudoptosis in Mastopexy (Hammock Technique)
https://doi.org/10.1097/GOX.0000000000002473
– 2019 – Watfa W, Zaugg P, Baudoin J, Bramhall R, Raffoul W, Di Summa PG - Application of Dermal Skin Substitutes for Hand and Finger Palmar Soft Tissue Loss
https://doi.org/10.1097/GOX.0000000000002551
– 2019 – Lucas D, Di Rocco D, Müller CT, Jurjus AR, Watfa W, Raffoul W - Free Versus Pedicled ALT Flap for Abdominal Wall Reconstruction
https://doi.org/10.21873/anticanres.13891
– 2019 – Di Summa PG, Watfa W, Giordano S, Elahi-Rausis L, Bauquis O, Hahnloser D - Colic-Based Transplant in Sexual Reassignment Surgery
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsxm.2019.09.007
– 2019 – Watfa W, Di Summa PG, Krähenbühl S, Schaffer C, Raffoul W, Bauquis O - Late Avulsion of a Free Flap: Salvage Strategy
https://doi.org/10.5999/aps.2018.01039
– 2019 – Schaffer C, Hart A, Watfa W, Raffoul W, Di Summa PG - Comprehensive Guide to Upper Lip Aesthetic Rejuvenation
https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.12881
– 2019 – Baudoin J, Meuli JN, Di Summa PG, Watfa W - Systematic Review of Outcomes in Nonimplant-Based Mastopexy
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjps.2019.06.011
– 2019 – Di Summa PG, Oranges CM, Watfa W, Sapino G, Kelleb N - Autoaugmentation Mastopexy Technique for Mild to Moderate Ptosis
https://doi.org/10.21037/gs.2017.08.01
– 2017 – Abboud L, Watfa W - Why Be a Refugee Camp Doctor: Challenges and Rewards
https://doi.org/10.5116/ijme.5985.c959
– 2017 – Abi Nader H, Watfa W - Matriderm Use in Radial Forearm Free Flap Donor Site Morbidity
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsxm.2017.08.003
– 2017 – Watfa W, Di Summa PG, Meuli J, Raffoul W, Bauquis O - Trace Element Intake in Burn Patients: Cohort Study
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clnu.2017.03.028
– 2017 – Jafari P, Thomas A, Haselbach D, Watfa W, Pantet O, Michett M - Bipolar Latissimus Dorsi Transfer in Poland Syndrome
https://doi.org/10.1097/GOX.0000000000000847
– 2016 – Watfa W, Raffoul W - Rat Model of Burn Wound Healing: Effect of Botox
https://doi.org/10.2488/jbpa.26.389
– 2012 – Abdallah Hajj Hussein I, Dali Balta N, Jurjus RA, Watfa W
CERTIFICATIONS/AWARDS
- Fellow of the European Board of Plastic Surgery (EBOPRAS)
European Board of Plastic Surgery – 2016 – Netherlands
European board certification demonstrating high-level competency in plastic and reconstructive surgery across Europe - Swiss Senology Diploma
Swiss Medical Authorities – 2016 – Switzerland
Specialized certification in breast surgery, including oncologic and aesthetic breast procedures - Specialist in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois (CHUV) – 2016 – Switzerland
Completion of full specialty training in plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgery - Fellowship in Aesthetic Surgery
LaClinic Montreux – 2017 – Switzerland
Advanced fellowship focusing on aesthetic surgery techniques and patient-centered cosmetic procedures - Fellowship in Microsurgery
CHUV Lausanne – 2016 – Switzerland
Specialized training in microsurgical reconstruction, including free flap and complex reconstructive techniques - Advanced Life Support Certification
St. George Hospital University Medical Center – 2017 – Lebanon
Certification in emergency and critical care management - Lebanese Medical Order
Professional Medical Association – Ongoing – Lebanon
Official medical licensure and professional registration in Lebanon - General Medical Council (GMC)
Professional Regulatory Authority – Ongoing – United Kingdom
Medical registration allowing practice within the UK system - Dubai Health Authority (DHA) License
Dubai Health Authority – Ongoing – United Arab Emirates
Official licensure to practice medicine in Dubai - Lebanese Society of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (LSPRAS)
Professional Society – Ongoing – Lebanon
Active membership in national plastic surgery society - Lebanese Society of Reconstructive Microsurgery (LSRM)
Professional Society – Ongoing – Lebanon
Membership focused on microsurgical and reconstructive advancements - International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS)
International Professional Society – Ongoing – Global
Membership in leading global organization for aesthetic plastic surgery
RESEARCH TOPIC
- Minimally Invasive Breast Augmentation (MIA Femtech) – Clinical Outcomes Study
Ongoing (2022 – Present)
URL: To be published
Prospective clinical evaluation of minimally invasive breast augmentation using the MIA Femtech technique, focusing on patient satisfaction, recovery time, complication rates, and comparison with traditional augmentation methods. The study emphasizes tissue preservation, reduced surgical trauma, and rapid return to normal activities. - Abdominal-Based Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction Optimization
2023
https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12196135
Systematic review analyzing techniques to optimize flap inset and improve aesthetic outcomes in microsurgical breast reconstruction - Rectus Muscle Plication in Mini-Abdominoplasty
2023
https://doi.org/10.1097/GOX.0000000000004998
Clinical study describing techniques to improve abdominal contour while preserving the umbilicus in mini-abdominoplasty procedures - Lower Limb Reconstruction with Free ALT Flaps
2023
https://doi.org/10.1080/2000656X.2023.2172025
Study evaluating functional outcomes and reinnervation potential in complex lower limb reconstruction using microsurgical techniques - Lymphatic Leak Management in Reconstructive Surgery
2020 – 2023
https://doi.org/10.1097/SAP.0000000000002310
Research proposing an algorithmic approach for the treatment of lymphatic leaks using combined plastic surgery techniques - Breast Surgery Outcomes and Mastopexy Techniques
2019 – 2021
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjps.2021.11.007
Comparative studies evaluating nipple-areolar complex changes and long-term breast shape following different mastopexy techniques - Transgender Surgery and Reconstructive Outcomes
2019
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsxm.2019.09.007
Clinical evaluation of functional outcomes and complications in gender-affirming reconstructive surgery
ONLINE PRESENCE
Website
https://www.drwilliamwatfa.com
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/drwilliamwatfa

