Fat Grafting to Breasts

1. What is Fat Grafting to Breasts?

Fat grafting to breasts, also known as autologous fat transfer, is a surgical procedure that involves liposuction to harvest your own fat cells (for example from the abdomen or thighs) and injecting them into your breasts to enhance their size and shape.

2. Why should I consider Fat Grafting to Breasts?

Fat grafting offers a natural alternative to breast implants. It is usually an attractive option to patients that do not particularly want silicone implants, but also want to benefit from liposuction of stubborn areas of fat. Fat grafting provides a subtle increase in breast volume (we currently quote up to 1 cup size enlargement). It must be noted that Dr. Sadideen also performs a “hybrid augmentation” in specific patients; this is where the primary augmentation is a breast implant, but fat grafting is used to improve the cleavage and provide additional volume.

3. Am I a suitable candidate for fat grafting?

Dr. Sadideen will assess your suitability for fat grafting during your consultation. Generally, good candidates will have sufficient donor sites, realistic expectations, and are in good medical and psychological health.

4. How is the procedure performed?

The procedure involves two steps: harvesting fat and then grafting it to the recipient site. Dr. Sadideen will first perform liposuction to collect excess or stubborn fat from your chosen donor area(s). The harvested fat is then processed and purified before being injected into your breasts using specialised techniques and small scars. Dr. Sadideen usually requests a breast ultrasound scan pre-operatively as a baseline measure of breast health.

5. What can I expect during the recovery period?

You may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort in both the donor and recipient areas. Dr. Sadideen will provide detailed post-operative instructions, including information on wearing a supportive garment, pain management, and follow-up appointments.

6. Are there any risks or potential complications?

Like any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with fat grafting. These may include fat necrosis (leading to small breast lumps, which often disappear), oil cysts, asymmetry, and the requirement for a further round of fat grafting. There are also the risks of liposuction. Dr. Sadideen will discuss these with you during your consultation.

7. How long will the results last?

While some of the transferred fat may be reabsorbed by your body (we currently quote around 50% of the grafted fat will be resorbed or lost), the remaining fat cells should establish a long-lasting presence in your breasts. Maintaining a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle can help preserve the results. There are also other modalities that Dr. Sadideen recommends in the first week to maximise fat graft take: such as maximising energy intake post-operatively, keeping the breasts warm, considering hyperbaric oxygen, and adopting an anti-inflammatory diet

8. Can I combine Fat Grafting with other procedures?

Depending on your individual goals and Dr. Sadideen's assessment, fat grafting can be combined with other procedures like breast lift, implant-based augmentation, or fat grafting to the hip dips or face.

9. Can the size of my breasts be further adjusted after the procedure?

Yes, it is possible to fine-tune the results through additional procedures if desired. Dr. Sadideen will discuss your options and the best approach during your follow-up appointments.

Disclaimer: This content is provided for information purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice.