Breast Fat Transfer: What To Expect After 5 Years

What to expect from a breast fat transfer after 5 years?

Breast augmentation surgery has long been a sought-after cosmetic procedure. For many years, breast implants have been the primary choice for women wanting to enhance their breast size. However, breast fat transfer has gained popularity as an alternative to implants.

The procedure involves extracting fat from one part of the body and injecting it into the breasts. If this is something you are considering, you may have some questions about the long-term outcome of breast fat transfer, especially after five years.

This article aims to explore this topic and tell you all you need to know about breast fat transfer so that you can make an informed decision.

What is involved in breast fat transfer?

Breast augmentation through fat transfer, also known as autologous fat grafting, offers an alternative method for increasing breast volume using a patient’s own body fat.

During this surgical procedure, fat cells are extracted through liposuction from areas such as the abdomen, hips, and thighs and then transferred to the breasts. Fat transfer can provide a more natural appearance compared to breast implants, particularly for individuals who want to avoid surgical scars. However, it is important to note that autologous fat grafting primarily focuses on increasing breast volume and does not significantly impact breast shape or address sagging breasts.

This technique is particularly suitable for individuals who wish to enhance breast size while maintaining their existing breast shape. It is commonly used in breast reconstruction following a mastectomy, to correct genetic deformities, and to improve the appearance of conditions such as tuberous breasts or Poland syndrome (underdeveloped breasts).

Fat transfer breast augmentation is also referred to as natural or scarless breast augmentation and is an ideal option for women seeking larger and fuller breasts without the use of breast implants. It is also a popular choice for anyone who prefers to avoid potential future revisions or implant removal procedures.

What to expect from breast fat transfer after 5 years?

After five years of breast fat transfer, the volume of the treated area in a fat transfer procedure is generally expected to remain stable, similar to the volume achieved within the first six months following the surgery. However, it is important to note that the treated areas are still subject to the natural ageing process.

As time passes, the results may gradually diminish as your body undergoes normal changes. If you experience a reduction in the desired results, you have options available to address it. You can consider repeating the fat transfer procedure to restore volume or exploring other cosmetic treatments to achieve the desired outcome once again.

Do fat transfer results last forever?

In terms of longevity, fat cells successfully transferred and integrated into your body become a permanent part, functioning like any other fat cells. Around 30-50% of transferred fat may be absorbed, so surgeons compensate by injecting a slightly higher volume.

However, you should know that over time, natural ageing may cause breast sagging, which can affect the shape and contours. If this happens, you can choose from options including another fat transfer, a breast lift or other cosmetic procedures to help restore the desired results.

Advantages of breast fat transfer vs implants

Breast fat transfer, when compared with implants, has the following benefits:

Natural appearance: Breast fat transfer results in a more natural-looking outcome as it uses the patient’s own fat cells, blending seamlessly with the existing breast tissue.

No foreign objects: Unlike breast implants, a fat transfer does not involve the insertion of foreign objects into the body. This reduces the risk of complications such as implant rupture, leakage or capsular contracture.

Minimal scarring: The procedure requires only small incisions for the fat extraction and injection, resulting in minimal scarring compared to the larger incisions required for implant placement.

Dual benefit: Breast fat transfer provides a dual benefit by enhancing the breasts and removing unwanted fat from other body areas through liposuction.

Reduced complication risk: Since breast fat transfer does not involve implants, the overall risk of complications is lower. There is no need to worry about issues specific to implants, such as implant-related infections or the need for future implant removal or replacement surgeries.

Dr Adnan will be able to suggest the best procedure for you after a comprehensive examination of your breasts.

Also Read: Are Small Boobs Affecting Your Confidence? Try Breast Enlargement Surgery (With Implants)

Ideal candidates for breast fat transfer

Breast fat transfer may be suitable for people who:

• Want a moderate increase in breast size.
• Prefer a more natural-looking result.
• Want to avoid the use of foreign objects like implants.
• Have sufficient fat deposits in other areas of the body for harvesting.
• Are content with their breast shape and primarily seek volume enhancement.
• Seek breast reconstruction after a mastectomy or correction of genetic deformities.
• Wish to improve the appearance of conditions such as tuberous breasts or Poland syndrome.

Factors influencing fat transfer results:

Some factors that influence fat transfer results include:

1. Skill of your surgeon: The expertise and artistic skills of your surgeon play a crucial role in achieving natural-looking results. A skilled surgeon with experience in fat transfer can precisely inject the fat to create the desired shape, curves, and contours. Specialised surgeons in fat transfer procedures are particularly adept at achieving the desired outcomes, such as correcting uneven breasts or creating an hourglass figure.
2. Fat transfer technique: The specific technique used during the fat transfer procedure can impact both safety and results. Different liposuction technologies may be used to harvest, process and inject the fat.
3. Individual body characteristics: Each person’s body is unique, and therefore the results of a fat transfer procedure will vary from one individual to another. Factors such as the capacity of the targeted area to hold fat and the body’s natural ability to absorb transferred fat during the recovery process will influence the final outcome. Additionally, leading a healthy lifestyle can enhance the chances of achieving better results.

You may consult Dr Adnan to discuss your specific goals and expectations. Dr Adnan specialises in breast surgeries and fat transfer procedures and will evaluate your individual characteristics to provide personalised guidance on how fat transfer may work for you.

Also Read: What To EXPECT During Breast Augmentation RECOVERY PHASE?

Frequently asked questions

• How long does fat transfer to the breast last? 

The volume achieved through fat transfer to the breast is generally permanent. However, over time, natural ageing may cause breast sagging, which can affect the shape and contours. If this happens, you can choose from options including another fat transfer, a breast lift or other cosmetic procedures to help restore the desired results.

• Can I get fat transfer after breast reconstruction? 

Yes, it is safe to undergo fat transfer after breast reconstruction surgery. In fact, it is common for patients to opt for fat transfer to address uneven breasts that can occur after breast reconstruction. Fat injections provide surgeons with greater control over volume and shape, allowing them to correct asymmetries and achieve natural-looking outcomes.

• Can fat transfer migrate to other areas of the body?

No, once the fat cells are injected, they remain in place. They either connect to the local blood supply or are naturally absorbed by the body. The surviving fat cells integrate with the surrounding tissue, functioning like any other fat storage cells in the body. Therefore, fat transfer does not result in migration from one area to another.

• How successful are fat transfers? 

Fat transfer is a popular procedure with a high success rate. Board-certified plastic surgeons can effectively enhance and contour multiple body parts to achieve the desired figure. However, the results of fat transfer can vary based on individual anatomy. During your consultation, your surgeon can assess your specific case and provide realistic expectations regarding the results you can anticipate from the procedure.

What makes Dr Adnan your go-to surgeon for breast fat transfer?

Dr Adnan Tahir is your go-to surgeon for breast fat transfer thanks to his extensive experience and expertise in the procedure. With a focus on natural-looking results, he has honed his skills in precision fat grafting techniques to create beautifully enhanced and proportionate breasts.

Patients trust Dr Adnan for his meticulous approach, personalised care and consistently outstanding outcomes in breast fat transfer surgeries.