How Is Breast Augmentation with Fat Injection Performed?
Breast augmentation is a procedure for people who are not satisfied with the size of their breasts and want a fuller appearance. There are two main methods of breast augmentation: breast implants and fat injection (fat transfer) using the person's own fat. Which method is suitable is determined after an examination, according to the person's body structure, breast structure and expectations.
Breast augmentation is performed on people aged 18 or over. Breasts may be small from birth, or they may lose volume or sag with pregnancy and breastfeeding, weight changes and age. Breast tissue cannot be enlarged with exercise; exercises that work the chest muscles can only support the appearance of the chest area.
What Is Breast Augmentation with Fat Injection?
In this method, fat harvested by liposuction from another area of the body is prepared and then transferred to the breast. No breast implant is used and no incision is made in the breast to place an implant; however, the fat harvesting stage is a surgical procedure performed under anaesthesia.
The increase achieved with fat injection is limited compared with what can be achieved with an implant; part of the transferred fat is absorbed by the body over time. For people who want a marked increase in volume, a breast implant may be a more suitable option. You can find detailed information on who the method is suitable for in our article Who Is Breast Fat Injection Suitable For?
Who May It Be Suitable For?
Breast augmentation with fat injection is usually considered in the following situations:
- People who want a limited increase in breast volume and do not want to use implants,
- People who have enough fat tissue in their body that can be harvested,
- People without marked breast sagging; fat injection does not correct sagging, and a breast lift may be needed if there is marked sagging.
Fat injection cannot always correct irregularities in breast shape. The doctor decides on suitability by assessing the person's expectations and breast structure together.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
The procedure is carried out in several stages:
- Assessment: The breasts are examined, imaging tests are requested if the doctor considers them necessary, and the areas from which fat will be harvested and the amount to be transferred are planned.
- Fat harvesting: Fat is harvested by liposuction under anaesthesia through small entry points from areas such as the abdomen, waist, hips or thighs.
- Fat preparation: The harvested fat is processed, for example by washing and centrifugation, to make it suitable for transfer to the breast.
- Transfer to the breast: The prepared fat is transferred into the breast tissue with fine cannulas. The amount that can be transferred in one session is limited and is determined by the doctor.
The length of the procedure depends on the amount of fat transferred and the number of areas from which fat is harvested. The doctor decides whether a hospital stay is needed. If more volume is desired, more than one session may be required.
The Period After the Procedure
In the early period after the procedure, there is swelling, bruising and tightness both in the breasts and in the areas from which fat was harvested. The swelling decreases over time; the final appearance of the breasts may become visible within about six months.
Unless the doctor recommends it, the area where fat was transferred should not be massaged or pressed. A compression garment recommended by the doctor may be worn for the areas from which fat was harvested. Because weight changes can affect the result, maintaining your weight after the procedure is recommended.
Limits and Risks of the Method
Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation with fat injection carries risks:
- Bruising, swelling and pain in the areas where fat is harvested and transferred,
- Absorption of part of the transferred fat and the need for an additional session,
- Death of fat tissue (fat necrosis), oil cysts and calcifications; these can cause firm areas that can be felt in the breast and changes on imaging,
- Infection, bleeding and asymmetry,
- Scarring at the small entry points where fat is harvested and transferred.
Because procedures on breast tissue can affect future breast examinations and imaging, you should mention that you have had fat injection at breast screenings. If you notice pain, redness, fever, discharge or a new firm area in the breast, you should contact your doctor.
Author: Op. Dr. Yücel Sarıaltın