Everything you need to know on breast lipofilling

Breast augmentation presents the ideal solution for women who suffer from breast atrophy or have naturally small or underdeveloped breasts.
The procedure aims at remodelling the breasts by enhancing their size and altering their shape; either through the insertion of breast implants or through lipofilling (also known as fat grafting or fat transfer).
While the former is believed to offer extravagant results, the latter is a more natural alternative as it uses the patient’s own body fat to augment the size of the breasts.
Given the latter, breast lipofilling has gained tremendous fame nowadays to become one of the most requested and performed breast surgeries worldwide.

What is fat transfer breast augmentation?

Cosmetic surgery provides numerous options for individuals seeking to enhance their appearance, and fat transfer breast augmentation is one innovative technique in this field. Also known as breast lipofilling, this procedure involves transferring fat from one area of the body, typically the abdomen or thighs, to the breasts to increase their volume and achieve a natural-looking enhancement. Unlike traditional breast implants, fat transfer breast augmentation uses the patient's own fat cells, making it a safer and more natural alternative. This method not only enhances breast size but also allows for body contouring in the donor areas, resulting in a more sculpted overall appearance. Patients often choose this procedure for its natural results, minimal scarring, and reduced risk of complications associated with foreign materials. Fat transfer breast augmentation is a popular choice for individuals looking to enhance their breasts while achieving a more harmonious and balanced body contour.

Who should not get a fat transfer breast augmentation?

Fat transfer breast augmentation, while a popular and relatively safe procedure, may not be suitable for everyone. Certain individuals should avoid this surgery to ensure their safety and achieve optimal results. Patients who do not have enough excess fat in donor areas like the abdomen or thighs may not be ideal candidates, as there might not be sufficient fat available for the transfer. Additionally, individuals with a history of breast cancer or certain medical conditions, such as autoimmune diseases or certain skin disorders, may be advised against fat transfer breast augmentation due to potential complications. It is essential for those who smoke or have poor overall health to reconsider this procedure, as these factors can impair the healing process and increase the risk of complications. Furthermore, individuals with unrealistic expectations or those seeking dramatic changes in breast size may not be suitable candidates for fat transfer breast augmentation. It is crucial for patients to have a thorough consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon who can assess their candidacy based on their medical history, body composition, and aesthetic goals to determine if this procedure is the right choice for them.

What happens during a fat transfer breast augmentation?

During a fat transfer breast augmentation procedure, the patient undergoes a multi-step process designed to enhance their breast size and shape using their body's own fat cells. The surgery typically begins with the administration of anesthesia to ensure the patient's comfort throughout the procedure. Once the patient is sedated, the plastic surgeon performs liposuction to extract excess fat from predetermined donor areas such as the abdomen, thighs, or hips. The harvested fat is then carefully processed and purified to remove impurities and damaged cells.

After the fat is prepared, the surgeon meticulously injects it into specific areas of the breasts, strategically shaping and contouring to achieve the desired volume and symmetry. The injection process involves small, inconspicuous incisions, minimizing the risk of visible scarring. The surgeon pays close attention to detail, ensuring an even distribution of fat cells for a natural and harmonious result.

How long does a fat transfer breast augmentation last?

The longevity of the results from a fat transfer breast augmentation can vary from person to person. While the procedure offers a natural and long-lasting enhancement, it's important to understand that not all transferred fat cells survive in their new location. Typically, a portion of the transferred fat is naturally reabsorbed by the body during the initial healing period. The fat cells that successfully integrate into the breast tissue, however, tend to remain there for the long term.

With advancements in surgical techniques and technology, the survival rate of transferred fat has improved, leading to more predictable and enduring results. Many patients can enjoy the benefits of their fat transfer breast augmentation for several years, if not indefinitely, especially if they maintain a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle. It's important to note that fluctuations in body weight can impact the results, so maintaining a consistent weight can contribute to the longevity of the enhancement.

What are the Advantages of Breast Lipofilling?

Since breast lipofilling uses fat harvested from natural fat deposits like the abdomen, the buttocks, the hips, etc., risks of rejection or contra-indications to the surgery are minimal. In addition, post-surgical contra-indications pertaining to breast-feeding or pregnancy are nearly inexistent.
With breast lipofilling, post-surgical scars are minor since the cannulas used to suck excess fat and then reinject it into the breasts are very thin. The shape, size and feeling of the breasts also remain natural.

Breast lipofilling: when and for whom?

Breast lipofilling, in contrast to implant placement, has specific indications tailored to certain patients. This procedure is suitable for individuals who have no history or risks of breast cancer following a negative breast radiological examination. Ideal candidates possess an adequate fat supply and maintain a stable weight since the reintroduced fat cells adapt to the body's fluctuations. Additionally, those seeking a modest increase in breast volume, typically not exceeding 200-250 cc per session (equivalent to two cups), find lipofilling suitable. This natural method is chosen by individuals desiring subtle breast remodeling, minor breast ptosis correction, or symmetry improvement through fat injection into the smaller breast. Moreover, breast lipofilling serves those looking to enhance the outcomes of previous breast reconstruction surgeries or augmentations with implants.

What are the Results of a fat transfer breast augmentation?

The results of a fat transfer breast augmentation can be transformative, providing patients with a natural and harmonious enhancement. One of the primary benefits of this procedure is the use of the body's own fat cells, leading to a more natural look and feel compared to traditional breast implants. By utilizing fat from areas where the patient desires contouring, such as the abdomen or thighs, the procedure offers the dual advantage of enhancing the breasts while sculpting other areas of the body.

Patients often experience increased breast volume and improved breast shape, leading to enhanced self-confidence and body image. The results are typically subtle and natural-looking, avoiding the overly round or firm appearance associated with some breast implants. Additionally, because the procedure uses the patient's own tissue, there is a reduced risk of complications and allergic reactions that can occur with synthetic implants.