A fat transfer to the breasts involves harvesting fat from one part of the body and injecting it into the breasts. This procedure is often sought by individuals looking for a modest increase in breast size and a more natural alternative to breast implants. Here's a general overview of how the procedure is typically performed:
Consultation
The first step involves a consultation to discuss goals, evaluate the suitability for the procedure, and determine the best approach. The surgeon will assess the donor sites (areas from where fat can be harvested) and the breasts to ensure there's enough fat for transfer and to plan the procedure.
Increase in Breast Size
With a fat transfer procedure, it's generally possible to achieve an increase of approximately one cup size.
Correction of Asymmetrical Breasts
Fat transfer can be an effective solution for women with asymmetry between their breasts, with one being smaller than the other. This technique allows for the addition of fat solely to the smaller breast for balance or to both breasts, with a greater volume added to the smaller one to achieve symmetry.
Anesthesia
This procedure can be performed awake under local anesthesia, with light "laughing gas" as an available an option. General anesthesia is used especially if other skin removal procedures are added.
Fat Harvesting
Gentle liposuction is used to harvest fat from the donor site, the abdomen & waist being the most popular. Small incisions are made in the donor area, and a cannula (a thin tube) is inserted to loosen and suction out fat.
Purification of Fat
Once the fat is harvested, it undergoes a purification process to separate and concentrate the viable fat cells from the liquid and debris collected during liposuction.
Injection into the Breasts
Using a syringe and cannula, the purified fat is carefully injected into the breast tissue at different depths and locations. This step is meticulously planned to ensure a natural look and feel, aiming for symmetry and the desired volume increase. The technique involves multiple small injections to evenly distribute the fat.
Closing Incisions
The incisions made for fat harvesting and injection are typically very small and are left open to heal naturally.
Recovery
Post-procedure, patients can expect some bruising and swelling both at the donor sites and the breasts. Recovery varies but generally involves taking it easy for a few days and may include wearing compression garments on the donor areas to help with healing. Specific post-operative instructions will be provided.
Results
Initial results can be seen immediately, but the final outcome may take several months to become evident. A small amount of the injected fat may be reabsorbed by the body in the first few months following the procedure, and the size of the breasts can decrease accordingly. Weight fluctuations can also increase or decrease the size of the breasts.