Whether you want to enhance the asymmetrical appearance of your breast(s) or just want to add more volume following weight loss, pregnancy, or breastfeeding, fat transfer breast augmentation may be the solution you’ve been looking for. Unlike traditional breast augmentation procedures, which require invasive surgery and can leave you with scars, fat transfer breast augmentation can be performed in a single session with little downtime and minimal discomfort.
In this article, we’ll discuss what fat transfer breast augmentation is and how it works, as well as its benefits and risks.
What Is Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation?
Also known as fat grafting, autologous fat transfer, and fat injection, fat transfer breast augmentation is a technique that involves liposuctioning the excess fat from your abdomen, flanks, thighs, and love handles, purifying it using a centrifuge to remove cellular debris, and then injecting it into your breasts by making a small and minimally visible incision.
With this procedure, you can sculpt the size and shape of your breasts to achieve an aesthetic balance and create a more natural-looking cleavage without dealing with stretched breast tissues, necrosis, palpability, and other risks.
How to Prepare for Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation Surgery?
Before you undergo fat transfer breast augmentation surgery, your surgeon will ask you some questions about your medical history, such as whether you’re diabetic or have any allergies, to determine if you are a good candidate for this procedure. They may also ask about medications that you take, including birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy drugs.
Your surgeon may also perform some tests before the surgery, such as an ultrasound or MRI scan. These tests are necessary in order to determine how much fat is available for transfer and also make sure there are no abnormalities in the breast area.
What To Expect During Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation?
The surgery usually takes around two hours and is performed under general anesthesia or IV sedation. The surgeon uses liposuction techniques to remove excess fat from areas such as the thighs, hips, or abdomen. The fat is purified and prepared for transfer into the breasts using a syringe-like device called an aspirator. It’s then injected into the breasts through multiple small incisions made around the lower fold of the breast and areola. After that, the doctor will close the incisions with sutures. Since this is an outpatient procedure, you can go home the same day of your surgery.
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Aftercare of Fat Grafting
Breast augmentation recovery after surgery is usually quick and painless. Most patients can resume their regular activities within a few days, although strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least two weeks following surgery.
After the procedure, your doctor will likely recommend some basic precautions to take after surgery, such as taking an antibiotic if you’re prescribed one or using a compression garment. You’ll also need to continue using topical creams on the harvested area for several weeks after the operation to help prevent scabbing or other skin issues from developing. You’ll likely experience some bruising, swelling, and soreness, but it should disappear after a few weeks.
You must follow your doctor’s instructions closely so that your healing process goes smoothly and without incident. This can help reduce the risk of complications arising from the procedure.
Risks Associated With Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation
As with all cosmetic surgeries, there are some risks associated with fat transfer breast augmentation. One of the most common complications is fat necrosis. Fat necrosis occurs when too much pressure is placed on the transferred fat, and it dies or is absorbed by your body, leading to cystic and calcification lumps, uneven breasts, skin discoloration, and tissue scars. Other possible risks include:
- Infection
- Fat reabsorption
- Blurry vision
- Headache
- Muscle weakness
- Dizziness
- Numbness
However, these risks are typically low as long as you follow proper aftercare instructions and take care of your body following surgery. If you are interested in learning more about fat transfer breast augmentation or would like to schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon, click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fat grafting is generally a painless procedure. However, you will likely experience some soreness and swelling in the area where the fat has been harvested. This can last anywhere from one to several weeks after your surgery.
It depends on the individual’s body and how much fat is available for harvesting. In general, however, most patients expect an increase of ½ or 1 cup size with fat transfer breast augmentation.
Since this procedure requires injecting fat into your breasts, you’ll have some scars at first. But the good news is that these are typically very small and inconspicuous so that they won’t be noticeable at all. If you are concerned about scarring, be sure to discuss this with your surgeon before your procedure.
No. You’ll have to wear a compression garment to wear for at least two weeks after your surgery. This will not only help prevent swelling and bruising but also promote circulation. Once you do start wearing a regular bra again, be sure to choose one that provides ample support without putting too much pressure on the transplanted area.
