Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation: Benefits and Risks

What is fat transfer breast augmentation?

Fat transfer breast augmentation, also known as autologous fat grafting to the breast, is a cosmetic procedure that involves using a person’s own fat to enhance the size and shape of the breasts. The procedure typically involves two main steps:

Liposuction: Fat is harvested from areas of the body where there is excess fat, such as the abdomen, thighs, or buttocks. The fat is removed using a thin tube called a cannula, which is inserted through small incisions in the skin.
Fat injection: The harvested fat is processed to remove impurities and then injected into the breasts. The fat is injected in multiple layers and depths to achieve the desired size and shape.

Fat transfer breast augmentation is often chosen by people who prefer a more natural alternative to traditional breast implants. It can also be used for breast reconstruction after mastectomy or to improve the appearance of breasts with contour irregularities.

While fat transfer breast augmentation is generally considered safe, it is important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure and to discuss the potential risks and benefits.

How is fat transfer breast augmentation better than breast implants?

Fat transfer breast augmentation offers several advantages over traditional breast implants, including:

Natural look and feel: Since the procedure uses a person’s own fat, the results often look and feel more natural compared to breast implants.
Dual benefit: Liposuction is used to harvest fat from areas with excess fat, providing the additional benefit of body contouring in those areas.
No risk of implant rupture or leakage: Since no implants are used, there is no risk of implant rupture or leakage.
No risk of capsular contracture: Capsular contracture is a complication where the scar tissue around a breast implant tightens and squeezes the implant. This risk is eliminated with fat transfer.
Minimally invasive: Fat transfer breast augmentation is a minimally invasive procedure compared to breast implant surgery, which typically requires larger incisions.
Long-lasting results: While some of the transferred fat may be reabsorbed by the body, the remaining fat can provide long-lasting results.
Potential for repeat procedures: If additional augmentation is desired in the future, fat transfer can be repeated, whereas breast implants may require replacement after a certain period.

What are the risks and drawbacks to fat transfer breast augmentation?

Fat transfer breast augmentation, like any surgical procedure, carries certain risks and drawbacks. Some of the potential risks and drawbacks include:

Incomplete absorption of fat: Not all of the transferred fat may survive, leading to a potential loss of volume and the need for additional procedures.
Unevenness or lumpiness: The distribution of the transferred fat may result in uneven or lumpy areas in the breasts.
Calcification: Fat necrosis or other factors may lead to the formation of calcifications in the breast tissue, which can be detected on mammograms and may require further evaluation.
Need for multiple procedures: Achieving the desired breast size and shape may require multiple fat transfer procedures, which can increase the overall cost and recovery time.
Limited increase in breast size: Fat transfer breast augmentation typically provides a modest increase in breast size and may not achieve the same level of augmentation as breast implants.
Possibility of complications: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of complications such as infection, bleeding, or adverse reactions to anesthesia.
Changes in breast appearance over time: The transferred fat may be affected by weight fluctuations, hormonal changes, and aging, which can impact the appearance of the breasts over time.
Not suitable for everyone: Fat transfer breast augmentation may not be suitable for individuals with limited fat reserves or specific medical conditions.

It’s important to discuss these risks and drawbacks with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine if fat transfer breast augmentation is the right option for you.

Will I lose my breast fat transfer if I lose weight?

Yes, if you lose weight after undergoing a fat transfer breast augmentation, you may lose some of the transferred fat in your breasts. Fat cells shrink when you lose weight, so the volume of your breasts may decrease if you lose a significant amount of weight.

However, the extent of fat loss in your breasts will depend on various factors, including the amount of weight you lose, your body composition, and how your body stores and uses fat. Some people may find that their breast size remains relatively stable even with weight loss, while others may notice more significant changes.

It’s important to discuss your goals and expectations with your plastic surgeon before undergoing fat transfer breast augmentation. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual circumstances and help you understand how weight loss may impact the results of your procedure.

How much bigger can you go with fat transfer to breast?

The amount by which you can increase your breast size with fat transfer (autologous fat grafting) depends on several factors, including the amount of fat available for harvesting, your body type, and the desired size increase. In general, fat transfer breast augmentation can achieve a modest increase in breast size, typically up to one or two cup sizes.

During the consultation process, your plastic surgeon will assess your individual anatomy and discuss your goals to determine the feasibility of fat transfer for achieving your desired breast size. They will also consider factors such as the amount of fat available for transfer, the need for multiple procedures to achieve the desired result, and the potential for fat absorption over time.