When is breast augmentaion using your own fat interesting for you?
While most patients opt for breast augmentation with implants, there is another innovative technique: fat grafting. Fat grafting is becoming increasingly popular among patients seeking subtle breast enlargement.
Development of autologous fat grafting
In the last two decades, autologous fat grafting (lipofilling) has become established as a volume replacement method for small and larger augmentations. This versatile procedure has been used successfully in various areas of the body, including the face, buttocks and breasts, and is also suitable for the reconstruction and treatment of chronic wounds.
Am I suitable for breast enlargement using my own fat?
There is no risk of intolerance with breast lipofilling (autologous transplantation). This procedure is therefore suitable for a wide range of patients. In contrast to silicone or saline implants, natural breast augmentation using your own fat leads to a moderate enlargement and improvement in the shape of the breasts.
After pregnancy and asymmetry
This technique is particularly beneficial if you experience loss of volume and sagging of the breasts after pregnancy and breastfeeding. You can achieve a more voluminous breast and a better shape with this technique, while keeping scars to a minimum and improving body shape by reducing fat deposits in other parts of the body. Women with naturally small or underdeveloped breasts and women with asymmetrical breasts can also benefit from this procedure. In addition, fat grafting can improve the upper fullness of the breasts and cleavage.
Careful planning
A successful operation begins with careful planning, during a personal consultation. Before you undergo fat grafting for breast augmentation, you will discuss the procedure with me. During this consultation, we will discuss your medical history and your goals for the surgery.
Individualised procedure
I will perform a physical exam and take photographs of your breast, which will be used to create a customised surgical plan. Your desired breast size and shape as well as the position and size of the nipples (if the procedure is to be combined with a breast lift) are taken into account. Together we discuss the possible breast volume and shape, the surgical technique and the placement of the incisions, taking individual factors and personal preferences into account to achieve the best possible result.
How does breast augmentation with your own fat work?
Breast augmentation with fat is usually performed under general anesthesia or deep intravenous sedation. During the procedure, fatty tissue is removed out from one or more areas of the body such as the belly, hips, thighs or back, depending on the shape of the body. The removed fat is usually processed by washing and/or centrifuging to remove blood and other tissue components to produce pure fat. This is then injected through holes the size of a needle and distributed evenly into the subcutaneous and deep layers using syringes, avoiding the mammary gland itself as much as possible. Multiple strategically placed injections create a symmetrical shape and greater volume. This method improves the volume and shape of the breast and restores the fullness of the upper breast pole, which is often lost after pregnancy and breastfeeding. This achieves a natural, long-lasting result with minimal incisions. Some patients require multiple sessions.
Recovery and result
The results after autologous fat grafting vary from person to person. On average, about 30% of transplanted fat cells do not survive. They are broken down and absorbed by the body. It is important that you have reached your desired weight before the procedure, as subsequent weight loss can lead to a reduction in the size of your breasts.
Compression garment
Recovery after breast lipofilling depends largely on the donor sites. To support healing, you should wear a comfortable sports bra and the compression garments we provide. The compression garment helps reduce swelling and discomfort in the liposuction areas. Swelling and bruising are to be expected in both the breast and liposuction areas.
Recommendations before and after the operation
You can usually return to work after three to five days. It is important that you do not remain in bed after the operation. You will be able to walk around your home or take short walks just a few hours after the procedure. Resume light exercise after 10 to 14 days. It is important not to put any strain on your breasts during the recovery period. Sleep on your side or back and avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities involving your upper body. To ensure the survival of the transplanted fat, it is important not to smoke for six weeks before and after the procedure. In addition, you should not take any medications that increase the risk of bleeding, such as aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and certain vitamins and homeopathic remedies, for two weeks before the procedure.
Screening
Fat grafting does not increase the risk of breast cancer. However, it is recommended to have a mammogram or sonography before and after the procedure. This makes regular breast cancer screening easier after the operation.
If you have any questions, please contact us. Arrange a consultation and invest in a more beautiful breast!