As with any fat transfer, fat grafting to the breast can yield variable and unpredictable results. Fat graft resorption/loss is expected to be 30-50%. Large volume fat transfer to the breast cannot be reliably expected to provide more than a cup size (likely less). It has been proven reliable and effective for small contour corrections. However, achieving size and symmetry is much more reliably achieved with an implant.

As always, discuss your concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Published on Jul 11, 2012

This is not very common. I have been doing this procedure since '99, and it has been very successful. It is only good for a breast that has no ptosis (droop), and you need 400-500 cc's that can be harvested. You can expect 1- 1 1/2 cup increase. The fat is not placed in the breast tissue, rather around it--and it will last indefinitely.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

This can be done only for small augmentations, as the fat cells may not last. But this should be discussed with your doctor.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Enlarging the breasts just with fat injections is not very common, as the breast enlargement is somewhat small. The technique also involves cumbersome equipment and takes weeks of preparation. On the other hand, fat grafting to the breast as an adjunct to breast implant augmentation, is a wonderful technique that can crate superior results in certain patients. Seek out a board-certified plastic surgeon for an in-person evaluation.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

I have done many fat transfers--in some cases, to replace existing implants; in others, to use with an implant to enhance the aesthetics. About 40-60% of the fat will take.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Transferring fat to the breast is not common. The amount of fat that can be transferred is limited and the increase in size is significantly less than implants. Perhaps the amount of fat that survives is 100-200cc, whereas the average implant is 350-400cc.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Yes, fat transfer is more common today, but the problem is that little fat remains after a period of time. Usually you would see about a cup size increase at the very most!

Published on Jul 11, 2012

No, it is not common, but can be used. The biggest problem is getting a reliable amount of fat to stay. Most people experience a 75 to 150 cc augmentation, or roughly one quarter to one half the average sized implant.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Thank you for asking. Occasionally fat transfer instead of breast implant placement is used for augmentation. Fat transfer has less predictable results than implants in general. It may require repeated fat treatments for final results. Volumes injected vary with the specific case. Small areas often respond well to fat grafting. Each patient's specific needs should be adjusted and tailored precisely. The cost of fat transfer is variable as multiplex treatments sometimes are needed for the goals. Implant cases tend to be more fixed in coat. Talk with a local board-certified plastic surgeon. Best wishes!

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Fat transfer can be performed to enhance the shape of the breast. It is very useful for filling in typically the top portion of the breast where many women experience deflation. It can also be used to fill in the cleavage areas to improve fullness in this particular area. Typically, a significant size increase long-term cannot be achieved with just fat grafting alone. As an example, if you expect to have an increase in approximately greater than one cup size, then chances are implants are a better option for you. Therefore, fat grafting can be used by itself as well as in conjunction with breast implants to enhance the overall shape of the breast. As far as how much volume can be placed in each breast, this is determined upon the size of your existing breast. The key with fat grafting, in my opinion, is to not transfer too much fat at any given time to try to improve the chances of fat survival. Typically, the ranges for fat volume transfer can be anywhere from 70 to 200 mL per breast, but this varies from individual to individual.

Published on Jul 11, 2012