Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation
What is Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation?
Types of Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation
Why Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation?
What are Concerns for Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation?
Steps to getting your procedure
Frequently Asked Questions
Cost of Procedure
Why Yes Doctor for This Procedure
Procedure

Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation

An approach to breast enlargement, a fat transfer breast augmentation is a cosmetic method. This process will use liposuction to collect fat cells from other areas of the body, like the stomach, hips, thighs, back, or arms. When this is done, the donor areas will appear leaner, while the breasts will be firm and larger. During the procedure, the fat cells that have been taken out of the donor sites are purified and then inserted into the breasts, where they will stay permanently. Fat transfer breast augmentation carries fewer risks than using breast implants to enlarge the breasts because it is a natural way of achieving the desired augmentation, with long-term results.

What is Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation?

Fat transfer breast augmentation is the process of increasing the breast size using own body fat obtained from the abdomen, hips, or thighs. The fat is then purified and injected into the breasts. Regarding the cannula size, several surgeons use different caliber cannulas for fat injection.

Many patients entirely refuse breast augmentation using implants due to their non-acceptance of having artificial materials in the body. In recent years, autologous fat grafting breast augmentation (or breast augmentation using fat transfer) showed excellent outcomes in cosmetic enhancement of the breast's size, shape, and texture. Fat is a filler with ideal properties: it naturally integrates into tissues, is autologous, and is 100% biocompatible. Autologous fat grafting combines liposuction and breast augmentation, so it has become increasingly popular.

Fat grafting to the breast could potentially interfere with breast cancer detection; however, no proof has been found that strongly supports such an interference. Early studies noted that graft re-absorption was the main drawback of fat grafting, with 50%–90% graft loss. To ensure maximum augmentation, many surgeons practice repeated transfers.

Procedure steps

Fat transfer breast augmentation is typically performed by a board-certified cosmetic plastic surgeon and involves the following steps:

Anesthesia

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, in a sleep-like state, to comfort you throughout the procedure. 

Fat harvesting

Different methods of fat extraction have been put forward. The primary approaches include vacuum aspiration, syringe aspiration, and surgery.

The body contains many different fat storage locations, and physicians determine the most suitable place after a thorough patient inspection. The stomach is usually the chosen area for fat retrieval; the other options are commonly the saddlebags, as well as the inner sides of the thighs and knees.

Fat processing

The most frequently used techniques to obtain fat grafts are sedimentation, filtering, washing, and centrifugation. This fat processing is necessary due to the fact that the fat extracted by suctioning also has collagen fibers, blood, and waste present. All of these components can lead to inflammation at the recipient site and damage the fat graft. It is essential to remove the blood since it can speed up the decay of the transplanted fat. Additionally, the introduction of debris can give an incorrect impression of the volume of the correction since the debris will be eliminated after a few hours.

Fat injection

The skin is cut in a way that is the same width as the cannula, and the fat graft is placed in the appropriate anatomical region. Small-diameter cannulas lessen trauma to the area where the fat is being moved to, which in turn, minimizes the likelihood of any bleeding or hematoma formation. It is usually better to inject fat in multiple small amounts rather than all at once. Various authors choose different cannulas based on the region where the fat is being injected, with the size of the cannula being determined by the site.

Recovery

Recovery from fat transfer breast augmentation is typically less invasive and less uncomfortable than breast augmentation with breast implants.

However, the recovery process still involves some discomfort, swelling, and bruising, as well as restrictions on physical activity for several days to several weeks following the procedure. Most patients can return to work and other non-strenuous activities within a few days to a week after the procedure. 

Fat transfer breast augmentation results last for a lifetime. Sometimes, it may take up to six months to see the actual outcomes. During this time, the fat cells settle into new places, where they remain forever. Because some cells die after the injection; therefore, providers inject more fat cells than needed during the transfer.

Types of Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation

  • Which Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation is Right for You?

    Most patients achieve a remarkable, long-lasting, and natural breast size and shape improvements with autologous fat grafting. However, there are different methods of fat transfer. The right method depends on your individual needs, the extent of the surgery, available fat, and the area being treated. 

    Autologous, nano fat grafting, and micro fat grafting are three different techniques used in autologous fat transfer. During these surgical procedures, fat is removed from one body part and transplanted into another. The main difference between these techniques is the size of the transferred fat cells.

    In addition to the liposuction method, other variables, such as cannula size and suction pressure employed during liposuction, could also impact the effective transfer of fat from the donor to the recipient site. 

    Following is a brief overview of different fat transfer techniques to help you decide which fat transfer method is right for you:

  • Autologous fat transfer

    Autologous fat transfer, also known as fat grafting or fat transplantation, is a surgical procedure in which fat is taken from one part of the body and transplanted to another part. This technique can be used for both cosmetic and reconstructive purposes.

    Cosmetic autologous fat transfer breast augmentation is often used to enhance the appearance of the breasts.

    Reconstructive autologous fat transfer breast augmentation may be used to restore volume to an area affected by injury, disease, or congenital defects. It can include reconstruction after mastectomy, injury, or burn.

    The procedure involves removing fat from the donor site using liposuction and processing it to purify and concentrate it. The processed fat is then injected into the breasts, which integrates into the surrounding tissue.

  • Microfat transfer

    In micro fat grafting, the fat cells are processed to make them smaller but still relatively large compared to the size of the surrounding tissue. It allows for more precise placement of the fat, which can result in a more natural appearance. The larger size of the fat cells also means that a greater volume of fat can be transplanted in one session, making it suitable for larger areas such as the cheeks or buttocks.

  • Nanofat transfer

    In nano fat transfer, the fat cells are processed to make them smaller than in micro fat transfer, allowing for a more gradual and natural-looking augmentation. The fat is typically taken from areas such as the abdomen, hips, or thighs and transplanted to the breasts through a series of small injections.

    The main advantage of nano fat transfer breast augmentation is that it provides a more natural result, as the transferred fat cells are the patient's own. It is also a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed under local anesthesia.

Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation

Why Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation?

A fat transfer breast augmentation is a surgery that is done for either cosmetic or reconstructive purposes. It is done to enlarge the size of the breasts, as well as to give the breasts a better shape and profile. This form of plastic surgery can be used to improve the appearance, balance out breast asymmetry, or to rebuild breasts that have been harmed due to injury, trauma, or illness. It is also sometimes referred to as a "boob job".

The results of a fat transfer breast augmentation are permanent, and the majority of people who have this procedure done are content with the outcome.

Fat transfer breast augmentation is performed for the following reasons:

  • Improves the shape/size
  • Lifts sagging breasts
  • Cover up old implants
  • Takes fat from other parts of your body
  • Better shaping options vs. implants

What are Concerns for Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation?

Autologous fat transfer, also known as fat transfer breast augmentation, is a process that requires taking fat from other areas of the body such as the hips or thighs, and employing it to expand the size and form of the breasts. Autologous fat grafting is a common practice for breast enlargement and reconstructive breast surgery. But, like any other surgery, it has possible dangers and risks. If fat transfer breast augmentation is not performed appropriately, it can result in complications such as fat necrosis, calcification, creation of encapsulated fatty lumps (cystic lesions), lymphadenopathy, deformation of breast contouring, hypersensitive breasts, and itchy nipples. It is essential to chat with an experienced plastic surgeon about the possible gains and hazards of fat transfer breast augmentation to decide if the process is appropriate for you. Some risks and concerns associated with fat transfer breast augmentation include:

  • Uneven Fat Distribution

    Another concern with fat transfer breast augmentation is the possibility of uneven fat distribution, where one breast may look different from the other. This is a rare condition, called lipodystrophy. This can be due to variations in the amount of fat that is transferred, the way it is distributed, or the way the fat cells survive. Anyone who may have this problem should see a doctor. Proper treatment can help manage the condition and reduce the risk of possible complications, such as insulin resistance, kidney damage, and fatty deposits in the liver.

  • Calcification

    Calcification after autologous breast augmentation, also known as dystrophic calcification, refers to the formation of small calcium deposits within the augmented breast tissue. It can happen after fat is taken from one part of the body and transferred to the breasts to increase their size and shape. The risk of dystrophic calcification after the autologous fat transfer is relatively low. However, it can sometimes occur if the fat tissue is not handled correctly or well-vascularized in the new location. It can lead to fat cell necrosis and the formation of calcium deposits within the tissue. Calcification is a normal process that can occur after any breast surgery and is usually not a cause for concern.

  • Asymmetry

    Asymmetry after autologous fat transfer breast augmentation is a common concern among patients. While the procedure can produce natural-looking results, there is always a risk of asymmetry, which occurs when the two breasts are not of equal size or shape. It can occur due to factors such as unequal amounts of fat being transferred to each breast, differences in the shape or structure of the recipient site, or problems with the healing process. If you are experiencing asymmetry after your autologous fat transfer breast augmentation, it is best to speak with your practitioner about your concerns and discuss any options for correcting the asymmetry, such as additional fat transfers or revision surgery.

Steps to getting your procedure

Step 1

Research

Step 2

Matching with a doctor

Step 3

Getting financing

Step 4

Booking a consultation

Frequently Asked Questions

A. Fat transfer breast augmentation is generally considered a permanent procedure. Its results can last anywhere from several years to indefinitely, depending on multiple factors such as the patient's age, overall health, and lifestyle habits. The longevity of the results can also depend on the amount of fat transferred and how well it takes to the new location. Generally speaking, the body will reabsorb some of the transferred fat over time, which can affect the overall volume and shape of the breasts. In order to maintain the best results, patients are often advised to maintain a stable weight, avoid significant weight fluctuations, and engage in regular physical activity to help support the tissue.

A. On average, a patient can expect an increase of one cup size, although this may vary. The amount of cup size increase achieved with fat transfer breast augmentation varies from person to person and depends on several factors, including: The amount of fat that is harvested from the donor site and the amount that can be successfully transplanted into the breasts The patient's existing breast tissue and size The patient's skin quality and elasticity The surgeon's skill and experience It's important to have realistic expectations and discuss your desired results with your plastic surgeon.

A. Both procedures have their own unique benefits and drawbacks, and the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and goals, breast anatomy, desired outcomes, and personal preferences. Both procedures have a set of pros and cons. Breast implants offer temporary results, meaning the results can be modified over time. Breast implants can provide a considerable increase in cup size than fat transfer. Moreover, since the size and shape of the implants are controlled, the results are more consistent and uniform compared to fat transfer. In contrast, fat transfer breast augmentation offers natural-looking results; since the fat is taken from your own body, the results are typically more natural-looking and less artificial than those achieved with breast implants. Fat transfer breast augmentation carries a lower risk of complications than breast implant surgery, such as rupture, leak, or capsular contracture.

A. Generally, it's estimated that between 50 and 200 milliliters of fat may be needed per breast. However, this can vary widely depending on several factors, including the patient's breast size and tissue, the desired outcome, and overall health and body fat stores. Having realistic expectations and discussing your desired results with your plastic surgeon is important. Your surgeon can give you a more accurate estimate based on your anatomy and desired outcome.

Cost of Procedure

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of Breast augmentation is $6000 to $12000. Breast augmentations can vary in pricing due to many factors. Educating yourself about these factors can help you better prepare and plan for one of the most life-changing and confidence-boosting procedures available and everything involved in determining the cost so that you can make the most thoughtful decision possible. The cost of the fat transfer breast augmentation depends on several factors, such as the extent of the fat transfer, the years of experience of the surgeon, the geographical location of where the surgery is performed, and other related expenses, like anesthesia provider's fee, pre-operative and post-operative medicines and dressings, lab tests fees, and surgical facility cost. Although breast augmentations are not generally covered by insurance, most established and reputable board-certified plastic surgeons will provide many options to help make autologous breast augmentations and similar procedures affordable and accessible.

Why Yes Doctor for This Procedure

Because fat transfer breast augmentation has become so popular over the past years due to its proven safety record. Yes Doctor provides an increasing number of options to help patients manage the cost.

We provide easy and accessible options for individuals interested in undergoing fat transfer breast augmentation, but may not have the financial means to pay for the procedure upfront. With our patient financing, patients can take out a loan specifically for their medical treatment and repay it over time. 

Patients can typically apply for financing online and receive a response quickly, allowing them to schedule their procedure and begin the treatment process sooner.