Quick Facts About Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation
- Procedure Duration: 2–4 hours.
- Anaesthesia: General anaesthesia.
- Hospital Stay: Day procedure.
- Results: Immediate improvement; final results visible after the swelling subsides (3–6 months).
- Longevity: Permanent for the fat cells that survive, though natural ageing and weight changes may affect results over time.
- Best Candidates: Individuals seeking a subtle increase in breast size and improved contour using their own fat.
What to Expect
Before Surgery:
During your consultation with Dr. Tim, you’ll discuss your goals, expectations, and areas of the body suitable for fat harvesting. Dr. Tim will evaluate your breast anatomy, skin elasticity, and donor fat availability to determine if fat transfer is the right option for you. Pre-operative instructions, such as fasting and avoiding certain medications, will be provided.
During Surgery:
The procedure begins with liposuction to harvest fat from the pre-determined donor areas. The fat is then processed and purified to ensure only the healthiest fat cells are used. Using fine cannulas, the purified fat is carefully injected into the breasts in small amounts, sculpting a natural, symmetrical shape. Incisions for liposuction and fat transfer are minimal, leaving virtually no visible scars.
After Surgery:
The treated areas may be swollen and tender for the first few weeks. To reduce swelling and support healing, a compression garment may be recommended for the liposuction sites.
Fat transfer breast augmentation is a procedure that uses your own fat to enhance breast size and contour, offering a natural alternative to implants.
Good candidates are individuals with sufficient donor fat who desire a subtle increase in breast size and natural-looking results.
The results are long-lasting for the fat cells that survive, but natural ageing, weight changes, and lifestyle factors may affect the outcome over time.
Most patients return to light activities within a week, with full recovery and resumption of strenuous activities taking 4–6 weeks.
Scarring is minimal, as the incisions for liposuction and fat transfer are small and placed discreetly.
Fat transfer typically achieves a modest increase in size (1–2 cup sizes). For a more dramatic enhancement, implants may be a better option.
The amount of fat required varies depending on your goals and body type. Dr. Tim will assess your donor fat availability during the consultation.
Risks
Fat transfer breast augmentation is a safe and effective procedure when performed by an experienced surgeon, but potential risks include:
- Fat reabsorption, which may reduce the volume over time.
- Asymmetry or uneven results.
- Oil cysts or fat necrosis (rare).
- Infection or delayed wound healing.
- Scarring (typically minimal and fades over time).
- Insufficient fat for harvesting, which may limit the achievable volume.
Recovery Tips
- Follow Post-Operative Instructions: Adhere to Dr. Tim’s guidelines for optimal healing.
- Avoid Pressure on the Breasts: To protect the transferred fat, avoid wearing tight bras or lying on your stomach.
- Wear a Compression Garment: This helps minimise swelling in the liposuction areas.
- Stay Hydrated and Rest: Proper hydration and rest support the healing process.
- Maintain Stable Weight: Weight fluctuations can affect the survival of the transferred fat.
- Limit Strenuous Activities: Avoid heavy lifting or vigorous exercise for at least 4–6 weeks.
