UFC star Karolina Kowalkiewicz has had a titanium plate inserted into her face after a brutal head kick left her with damage to both eyes.

The injury occurred during her defeat to Xianon Yan at UFC Auckland in February 

The 34 year-old took to Instagram to thank fans for their support and share the news that she had gone under the knife in Warsaw in a bid to save her career.

She said: "I hope it wasn't my last fight but now I'm focused on my health."

Last week she posted an emotional video informing followers that surgery was required, admitting 'for the first time in my life after a fight, I cannot say I'm okay'.

"Like you see, at the beginning of the first round, I have broken a small bone here. I couldn't see nothing. My vision was double and everything was like in the fog," she added.    

"After the fight, I spent all day in the hospital. S*** happens. I still love this sport and UFC. Don't worry I'll be OK."

Her injuries were inspected by the ringside doctor and she was permitted to continue the fight but lost on a unanimous decision having battled through with blurred vision.

She was then forced to wear an eye patch and remain in New Zealand because of the extensive damage to her face before heading back to her native Poland for surgery.

The Polish fighter is now hoping the surgery means she can continue with her career and that she will be able to fight again.