I've gotta be honest here...I've said that before to overweight woman and man. I've also had it said to me when I was at my heaviest. I think it's all in how you perceive it and its intention. I'm not big on dishonesty and think it does NOTHING beneficial for all parties involved to say something you don't honestly feel.
That said, when I would say that "you've got a really pretty face" comment, what I really meant was, "you've already won half the battle...". I assume that's what was meant by those same comments directed at me. I never took offense, cuz IMHO...it's TRUE! I don't feel my body looked anything spectacular and I would actually be HURT if someone lied to my face and told me something they didn't actually believe.
After all..it's only FAT...you CAN lose it!
Now skin color...or height...or even shoe size...not much to do about that...but comments about things I have the power to change...and that may actually be true..don't bother me. Inner beauty, and how kind we are in our ACTIONS for others is what really determines how BEAUTIFUL a person is anyways...
Just my take though.