Breast Augmentation with Fat Grafting
Breast Augmentation with Fat Grafting
Breast volume and contour enhancement using the patient's own fat.
What is it?
Fat grafting, also known as fat transfer, fat injections or lipofilling, is a surgical procedure that uses the patient's own fat to fill irregularities and grooves or to increase volume. It differs from hyaluronic acid filling, which is a non-surgical procedure.
Aesthetic indications for lipofilling include correcting facial volume loss associated with ageing, particularly loss of cheek fat, deep furrows from the nose to the corners of the mouth and, in some cases, lines between the lower eyelids and the cheeks. It is also one of the methods used for lip augmentation and can smooth irregularities resulting from poorly performed liposuction.
Enhancement of breast or buttock volume — the gluteal procedure commonly known as a Brazilian Butt Lift — using the patient's own fat is one of the most requested aesthetic procedures.
The required fat is obtained through one or more incisions measuring 3 to 5 mm and is normally harvested from the abdomen or thigh.
The procedure can complement liposuction of other areas by using the removed fat. When a significant volume is required, as in breast or buttock augmentation, sufficient fat deposits are necessary.
Videos
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Procedures that may be combined
Frequently asked questions
Answers to frequently asked questions about breast augmentation with fat grafting.
What is breast fat grafting?
It is a surgical procedure that uses the patient's own fat to improve breast volume and contour.
Is lipofilling the same as a hyaluronic acid filler?
No. Lipofilling is a surgical fat-transfer procedure, whereas hyaluronic acid filling is non-surgical.
Where is the fat usually harvested from?
The fat is normally harvested from the abdomen or thigh.
How is the fat harvested?
The fat is obtained through one or more small incisions, generally measuring 3 to 5 mm.
Can breast augmentation be performed without implants?
In people with sufficient fat deposits, breast augmentation may be performed using fat alone, without implants.
What changes can the procedure improve?
It may improve breast volume and contour, skin quality and texture in some cases, and help disguise certain irregularities, particularly after previous implant surgery.
Can the procedure be combined with liposuction?
Yes. Fat removed during liposuction of other areas can be used for grafting.
How long does the procedure take?
Depending on its complexity, the procedure may take between one and three hours.
What type of anaesthesia is used?
General anaesthesia is usually used. Minor procedures may be performed under local anaesthesia, with or without sedation.
Is a hospital stay required?
This depends on the size of the procedure and any associated operations. It may be performed as an outpatient procedure or require one day in hospital.
Where are the scars located?
The scars are generally 3 to 5 mm long and are located in the fat-harvesting areas, usually concealed by underwear or positioned in less visible areas.
When can social activities be resumed?
Swelling usually begins to decrease from the third day, and social activities can generally be resumed after about one week, sometimes with the help of make-up.
What are the most frequent risks?
The listed risks include asymmetry, irregularities, overcorrection and infection.
Does all of the grafted fat remain?
No. Approximately 30 to 50% of the grafted fat may be reabsorbed over 6 to 12 months.
Can weight changes affect the result?
Yes. Large changes in weight can alter the volume of the grafted fat, just as they affect the body's other fat deposits.
This information is general and does not replace an individual medical assessment.
