Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure. It was the most commonly done cosmetic surgery in 2018 with a total of 313,735 breast augmentations performed.
The average cost of breast augmentation ranges depending on the type of procedure. Using breast implants allows for a more straightforward and relatively more affordable breast augmentation.
However, for women who prefer a more natural look and feel a fat transfer breast surgery may be under consideration.
Breast Augmentation Using Natural Body Fat
A fat transfer breast augmentation is essentially a combination of two procedures: breast augmentation and liposuction.
We use liposuction to take natural body fat from areas of the body with excess fat. The abdomen, torso sides, and thighs are typical fat harvest areas. The removed fat is first purified and then injected into the patient’s breasts.
The combination of the two procedures provides body sculpting or reshaping benefits in addition to breast enhancement. Patients can lose fat and slim down certain parts while enhancing their cup size.
Fat Transfer vs. Implants
Compared to breast augmentation procedures that use saline or silicone implants, a fat transfer is much more natural. As the fat used comes from the patient’s own body, they thus have a very minimal risk of developing an allergic reaction. Saline and silicone implants sometimes trigger such complications.
Additionally, a fat transfer breast surgery does not require large incisions in the chest area. This lends to the more natural look post-operation, as there are no large, visible scars.
There is no need to make a large incision on the underside of the breast to put in the implants. Instead, surgeons only need to inject the fat into the breasts.
Limitations of Breast Augmentation With Fat Transfer
Breast augmentation using natural fat transfer has many benefits, but it has its share of disadvantages as well. We urge women to consider fat transfer breast surgery to ensure they are aware of the limitations of the procedure.
- There is a chance the body may reabsorb the injected natural fat and diminish the augmentation
- Unlike implants, a fat transfer does not provide a lift. For sagging issues, we advise looking into a separate breast lift procedure
- The procedure does not provide a large enhancement. At most, patients only increase their cup size by one
Based on these limitations, breast implants may be more beneficial for women who are looking for significantly visible enhancement and lift.
Recovery From Breast Augmentation
Breast surgery recovery may vary from woman to woman. The healing period is also greatly influenced by the type of procedure and the surgical skill of the doctor.
We recommend that breast augmentation patients rest for around four to six weeks for a full recovery. Strenuous activities such as heavy lifting and overworking are not advisable during this period.
Since a fat transfer breast augmentation involves surgery, patients are prescribed compression garments to put pressure on the liposuctioned areas. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help with post-surgery pain during the first 24 hours after the procedure. Although patients may feel sore following the surgery, we also highly recommend walking around to get the blood flowing.
Like all other surgeries, whether cosmetic or not, patients must understand the benefits, risks, and limitations of the procedure. Consulting with a cosmetic surgeon or an individual doctor can help ensure patients are well-informed before making their decision.
For more information or a breast augmentation consultation, contact Dr. Yuan today!
