Pros and Cons of Using Fat Transfer for Breast Enhancement7 min read
Melanie Jackson
If you’re considering breast enhancement surgery, you may be weighing the pros and cons of fat transfer breast augmentation versus implants. Both options offer unique benefits and drawbacks, and choosing the right one for you may come down to your personal preferences and goals. Fat transfer breast augmentation uses your own fat to create a more natural-looking result, while implants provide a greater increase in volume and better control over the final size and shape. So what are the pros and cons of implants vs fat transfer breast augmentation, and how do you know which one is right for you?
Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation vs Implants: What's the Difference?
Fat transfer breast augmentation and breast implants are two different options for enhancing the size and shape of the breasts. Fat transfer uses the patient’s own fat and is typically performed as a minimally invasive procedure, where fat is removed from one area of the body, processed, and then reinjected into the breasts. This procedure results in a more natural-looking appearance and has a quicker recovery time compared to breast implant surgery.
Implants, on the other hand, consist of artificial materials, such as silicone or saline, that are inserted into the breasts through a more invasive surgical procedure. Breast implants offer a greater volume increase and better control over the final size and shape of the breasts, but can result in a more artificial appearance.
Because the volume increase that can be achieved via fat transfer is relatively small, fat transfers are typically used alongside other forms of breast augmentation rather than by themselves. When used in conjunction with other procedures, they can help create a smoother, more natural look.
What are the Pros and Cons of a Fat Transfer?
Fat transfer breast enhancement is a natural breast augmentation procedure that has many advantages when compared to fillers. However, there are many downsides to fat transfers. Patients should be aware of potential risks before deciding on a procedure.
Pros of fat transfer breast enhancement include the following:
- Natural-looking results: Fat transfer uses the patient’s own fat, so the results are often more natural-looking and subtle than traditional breast implants.
- No artificial materials: Since the procedure uses the patient’s own fat, there is no need for artificial materials, reducing the risk of implant-related complications.
- Minimally invasive: Fat transfer is typically performed as a minimally invasive procedure, which can result in less scarring, less pain, and a faster recovery period.
- Improved body contours: By removing excess fat from one area of the body and transferring it to the breasts, fat transfer can result in improved body contours overall.
- Lower risk of complications: A fat transfer breast enhancement is generally safer than implants, which can have side effects such as severe scarring, anaplastic large cell lymphoma, and increased risk of blood clots.
Cons of fat transfer breast enhancement include the following:
- Limited volume increase: Fat transfer can result in a modest increase in breast size, but may not be suitable for those seeking a significant increase in size. Additionally, they will not achieve the more firm, rounded look given by implants. This is the primary reason why fat transfers are rarely used by themselves for breast augmentation.
- Uneven results: Fat transfer results can be unpredictable and may result in uneven breast size or shape, requiring additional procedures to achieve desired results.
- Limited lifespan: Unlike traditional implants, the results of fat transfer may not be permanent, as some of the transferred fat may be reabsorbed by the body over time.
Multiple procedures may be required: Depending on the amount of fat available for transfer and the desired results, multiple procedures may be required to achieve desired results.
Is a Breast Enhancement Fat Transfer Safe?
Fat transfers are generally safe when used for breast augmentation, but they are not without risks. Firstly, the patients should remember that local anesthesia is typically administered for the procedure. Possible side effects could include dizziness, headaches, blurry vision, numbness, and weakness. These effects are not common, but patients should be sure to discuss their medical history with the plastic surgeon to ensure that risks are understood.
The risk of infection is low, but it is still present. Although the procedure creates only small incisions and uses the patient’s own fat, infection is possible. Those with a weakened immune system should consult with a doctor to ensure that the procedure is a good fit.
Fat necrosis is the most significant risk associated with fat transfer procedures. This occurs when adipose cells die during the transfer process. If a significant number of cells die, they can create painful cysts or lumps, bruising, skin discoloration, and even a change in the overall shape of the breast. Some lumps may resolve on their own, but those that cause significant pain should be treated. In a worst-case scenario, a surgeon may have to remove the lumps.
What is the recovery period of a fat transfer?
The recovery period following a fat transfer breast augmentation can vary from patient to patient, but typically takes several weeks. During this time, patients may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the treatment area, but these symptoms should subside within a few days. It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding postoperative care, such as wearing a compression garment, to promote proper healing and reduce the risk of complications. Most patients are able to return to work and normal activities within about a week, but should avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for several weeks to allow the treated area to fully heal. The final results of a fat transfer breast augmentation may not be fully visible for several weeks or months, as the transferred fat may take time to settle into its final position. Once you’re done with the recovery period, though, what will the final product look like?
What does a fat transfer breast augmentation look like?
Successful fat transfers typically add a comparatively small volume, and the end result is natural-looking when compared to other procedures. However, some may not find a natural look desirable. It’s important to remember that a fat transfer breast augmentation will not give breasts the rounded look that implants would achieve. Though the procedure will enlarge the breasts slightly, it will not prevent them from sagging. Fat transfers are typically only used to supplement the results of another procedure. If patients want a firm look, they may require a breast lift to achieve such results. Alternatively, patients may have to consider alternatives to natural breast augmentation.
What Happens To The Fat Transfer After 5 Years?
If you want a more natural look from your breast enhancement procedure, you might still be wondering if fat transfer breast augmentation is a wise investment. You might be asking: Do fat transfers last? What will happen to the fat transfer after five years? Fat transfers are somewhat unpredictable; some adipose cells will inevitably die during the process. The result can look uneven and may require touchups. Furthermore, the results of a fat transfer behave like normal body fat–they will fluctuate in response to weight loss or gain. Still, any fat that survives the procedure should require little maintenance and last far longer than a typical implant.
Let Us Help You!
Our office can provide you with helpful information, schedule a free consultation, and walk you through the many services and procedures we provide.
Contact Dr. Chang's Office:
More Articles For You
Types and Causes of Stretch Marks
Stretch marks affect men and women of various ages and backgrounds. These silver, reddish, or purple streaks appear on different body parts, often evoking feelings of self-consciousness. But what exactly are stretch marks, and what causes them? In this detailed guide, we will delve deep into the types and causes of stretch marks, shedding light on this common skin concern.
How Do I Know What Lip Shape to Go For?
Breast augmentation, an ever-evolving field of plastic surgery, changes the size and shape of your breasts while profoundly boosting your confidence and self-image. Once the surgery is complete, many women immediately look for the perfect bra to fit their new size and shape. This process, while exciting, can be daunting due to the wide variety of choices. Therefore, staying informed and prioritizing aesthetics and comfort after breast augmentation is essential!
How to Find the Perfect Bra After Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation, an ever-evolving field of plastic surgery, changes the size and shape of your breasts while profoundly boosting your confidence and self-image. Once the surgery is complete, many women immediately look for the perfect bra to fit their new size and shape. This process, while exciting, can be daunting due to the wide variety of choices. Therefore, staying informed and prioritizing aesthetics and comfort after breast augmentation is essential!
5 Top TikTok Plastic Surgery Trends
TikTok, the global social media sensation, has profoundly impacted the world of plastic surgery. With the advent of filters, beautification tools, and trending challenges, there’s a notable shift in the most sought-after procedures. Here, we explore the 5 top TikTok plastic surgery trends that have taken the world by storm!