Fat Transfer to Breast in Tampa

Key Takeaways:

  • Breast fat transfer is a two-in-one procedure that uses liposuction to remove unwanted fat from one area (like the abdomen) and injects it into the breasts for a natural, modest volume enhancement.
  • The best candidates are those in good health with enough donor fat who desire a subtle increase (up to one cup size) and prefer using their own tissue instead of implants.
  • The results are permanent, as the surviving fat cells become a living part of the breast tissue, and the procedure is very safe with a low risk of complications since it uses your own fat.

For women who dream of enhancing the size and shape of their breasts but are hesitant about implants, a revolutionary procedure offers a natural, authentic-feeling alternative. Imagine achieving a fuller, more youthful bustline while simultaneously slimming a stubborn problem area like the abdomen or thighs. This innovative, two-in-one body contouring solution is known as a fat transfer to breast, and it is quickly becoming a favored option for patients seeking subtle, beautiful results that are entirely their own. This guide will explain this exciting procedure, from how it works to what you can expect on your journey to a naturally enhanced silhouette.

What is Natural Breast Augmentation?

A fat transfer to the breast is the cornerstone of natural breast augmentation. Unlike traditional augmentation that uses saline or silicone implants, this technique uses your body’s own fat—a process also known as autologous fat grafting. The procedure is a harmonious blend of two proven plastic surgery techniques: liposuction and fat injection.

 

The process unfolds in three key stages:

  1. Harvesting: First, Dr. Politis performs gentle liposuction on a pre-selected area of your body where you have excess, unwanted fat. Common donor sites include the abdomen, flanks (“love handles”), or thighs. This step has the added benefit of slimming and contouring the donor area.
  2. Purification: The harvested fat is then processed in a sterile, closed system. It is spun in a centrifuge to separate the pure, healthy fat cells from other fluids like oil and water. This crucial step ensures that only the most viable fat cells are used for the transfer, which maximizes their survival rate.
  3. Injection: Finally, the purified fat is meticulously injected into the breasts in tiny droplets through multiple layers of tissue. Dr. Politis, an expert plastic surgeon in Tampa, FL, uses a strategic injection technique to artfully sculpt the breasts, enhancing volume, improving shape, and creating a soft, natural contour.

The result is a modest but meaningful increase in breast size (typically up to one cup size) and an improved breast shape that looks and feels completely natural, because it is.

Is a Fat Transfer Right for You?

While a fat transfer is an incredible option, it’s best suited for a specific type of patient. The ideal candidate is someone seeking a subtle, natural enhancement rather than a dramatic increase in volume.

You may be a great candidate for a breast fat transfer if:

  • You Desire a Modest Size Increase: This procedure is perfect for women who want to go up about one-half to one full cup size.
  • You Have Enough Donor Fat: You must have sufficient excess fat in another area of your body (like the stomach, hips, or thighs) to harvest for the transfer.
  • You Are in Good Overall Health: As with any surgical procedure, being a non-smoker and free from significant health issues is important for safe and effective healing.
  • You Want to Correct Asymmetry or Shape: Fat transfer is exceptionally good at correcting minor breast asymmetry, filling in concavities, or smoothing out irregularities (including those from previous implant surgery).
  • You Prefer a Natural Approach: You are looking for an alternative to breast implants and are excited by the idea of using your own tissue for enhancement.

Is Fat Transfer to Breast Safe?

Patient safety is the absolute top priority at Politis Plastic Surgery. When performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in fat grafting techniques, the answer to “is fat transfer to breast safe?” is a resounding yes.

Here are some key points regarding the safety and satisfaction of this procedure:

  • Extremely Low Risk of Rejection: Because the procedure uses your own fat cells, there is virtually no risk of your body rejecting the tissue. This eliminates concerns associated with foreign materials, such as implant-related complications.
  • Longevity of Results: While not all of the transferred fat will survive, the cells that successfully establish a new blood supply will remain permanently. On average, patients can expect to retain about 50-70% of the transferred fat. The final result, visible after about six months, is long-lasting.
  • Impact on Mammograms: This is a common and important question. When performed correctly, the injected fat should not interfere with breast cancer screening. It is crucial to inform your radiologist that you have had a fat transfer. They can use specific techniques to distinguish the grafted fat from any suspicious tissue. The calcifications that can occur with fat grafting look different to a trained radiologist than the microcalcifications associated with cancer.

Breast Fat Transfer Cost

The breast fat transfer cost is unique to each patient because the procedure is highly customized. The total investment reflects that it is essentially two procedures in one: liposuction and fat grafting.

Several factors influence the final cost:

  • The Scope of Liposuction: The size and number of donor areas from which fat is harvested will impact the overall time and complexity of the surgery.
  • The Amount of Fat Transferred: The volume required to achieve your desired breast enhancement will be a factor.
  • Surgeon’s Fee: This is based on the surgeon’s expertise, board certification, and specific experience with fat grafting procedures.
  • Facility and Anesthesia Fees: These cover the costs associated with the accredited surgical center and the board-certified anesthesiologist ensuring your comfort and safety.

During your private consultation, our team will provide a transparent, all-inclusive quote and discuss any available financing options to help you plan for your investment in yourself.

Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation Recovery

A smooth fat transfer breast augmentation recovery involves caring for two separate areas: the liposuction (donor) site and the breasts (recipient site).

Here’s a general timeline of what to expect:

  • The First Few Days: You will experience mild to moderate soreness, bruising, and swelling in both areas. The donor site will be treated with a compression garment to minimize swelling and support the new contour, while the breasts will be supported by a soft, non-compressive surgical bra.
  • Week One: Most patients feel well enough to return to work and light daily activities within 5 to 7 days. It is crucial to avoid putting any pressure on the breasts to protect the delicate, newly transferred fat cells. This means sleeping on your back and avoiding restrictive bras.
  • Weeks Two to Six: Swelling and bruising will continue to diminish. You can gradually increase your activity level, but you should avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for about six weeks, or until cleared by Dr. Politis.
  • Three to Six Months: By this point, the majority of the swelling has resolved. The surviving fat cells have integrated into the breast tissue, and you will be able to see your beautiful, stable, and final results.

The Art of Natural Enhancement

A fat transfer to the breast offers a unique and compelling way to enhance your body on your own terms. It provides the dual benefit of slimming a problem area while adding soft, natural-looking volume to your breasts. With no implants, minimal scarring, and long-lasting results, it represents the forefront of personalized, natural body contouring.

If you’re ready to explore how this innovative procedure can help you achieve your aesthetic goals, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Effie Politis. She will listen to your vision and help you decide if a natural breast augmentation is the right path for you.

To schedule a consultation with Dr. Effie Politis, please contact our office:

Call us at: (813) 542 – 2587
Visit us: 4602 N Armenia Ave Suite 201, Tampa, FL 33603

References:

  1. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (n.d.). What is a fat transfer breast augmentation? Retrieved from https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-augmentation/fat-transfer
  2. Cleveland Clinic. (2022). Fat Grafting. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/22259-fat-grafting
  3. The Aesthetic Society. (n.d.). Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation. Retrieved from https://www.theplasticsurgerychannel.com/procedure/fat-transfer-breast-augmentation
  4. U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2021). Fat Grafting to the Breast: A Systematic Review of the Clinical, Radiological, and Oncological Results. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8233959/

The Difference Between Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation and Breast Implants

Key Takeaways:

  • Versatility and Natural Feel: Fat transfer offers a natural alternative for those seeking a moderate increase in breast size, while implants provide a more significant and structured enhancement.
  • Hybrid Augmentation: Combining both fat transfer and breast implants allows for a customized, sculpted appearance, leveraging the natural softness of fat grafting around the structural benefits of implants.
  • Personalization in Procedure: Every individual’s body and aesthetic goals are unique; understanding the differences and potential synergies between fat transfer and implants can guide patients to make informed choices about their breast augmentation.

Today, we’re exploring some exciting ways to customize your breast augmentation to match your unique vision of beauty. Whether you’re considering a subtle enhancement or a more pronounced change, understanding the options of fat transfer and breast implants can empower you in making the best choice for your body.

What’s Right for You: Fat Transfer or Implants?

Fat transfer to the breast has been gaining popularity, particularly among younger patients who are looking for a modest increase in breast size—a single cup size, for example—and desire a natural look. “If you want just a single cup increase in your breast size and a very natural breast, and you have a tight skin envelope, it may be appropriate,” I explain. This method involves harvesting your own fat (typically between 200 to 400 cc’s) and reintroducing it into the breast area. However, it’s important to remember that some of the transferred fat may not survive, which can affect the final volume increase.

On the other hand, breast implants have evolved significantly in terms of technology, offering an incredibly natural feel. “They feel like one with your breast because of the cohesive nature of the gel,” which means they integrate seamlessly, reducing any sense of separation between the body and the implant. This option is excellent for those who need not just volume but also structural support from their augmentation.

Hybrid Breast Augmentation: The Best of Both Worlds

Many of my patients opt for what we call a hybrid or composite breast augmentation. This innovative approach combines the volume and lift provided by implants with the natural feel and fine-tuning possible with fat grafting. “We cannot just put fat grafting in breasts that are tautic or have loose skin envelopes,” which is why the hybrid method is so beneficial. By placing an implant for structure and then using fat grafting to enhance the cleavage area and soften the edges, we achieve a beautifully natural yet augmented look.

Tailored to Your Unique Shape

Each body is different, and the art of plastic surgery lies in tailoring each procedure to the individual’s specific aesthetic goals and physical needs. “A lot of times I like to combine both techniques to create what we call a hybrid or composite breast augmentation,” allowing for a completely customizable look that respects the natural anatomy while enhancing it.

Why Choose a Plastic Surgeon in Tampa, FL?

Choosing the right plastic surgeon is crucial. In Tampa, FL, our clinic ensures that every step of your breast augmentation process is guided by expertise, safety, and a commitment to achieving your desired outcomes. Whether you choose fat transfer, implants, or a combination of both, our goal is to enhance your natural beauty and boost your confidence with results that look and feel natural.

We welcome you to schedule a consultation at Politis Plastic Surgery where we can discuss your vision and how we can help you achieve the look that best fits your body and your dreams.

References:

  1. Politis Plastic Surgery Instagram Reel. Retrieved from https://www.instagram.com/reel/C3QCJfRMbtU/
  2. Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation: Procedure, Results & Risks. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24033-fat-transfer-breast-augmentation
  3. RealSelf. (n.d.). Breast Augmentation with Implants vs. Fat Transfer. Retrieved from https://www.realself.com/surgical/breast-augmentation
  4. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (2021). Breast Augmentation with Fat Grafting. Retrieved from https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/fat-grafting-for-breast-augmentation
  5. Mayo Clinic. (2022). Breast Augmentation: Fat Transfer vs. Implants. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/breast-augmentation/about/pac-20393178

What is breast augmentation with fat grafting or fat transfer?

Breast augmentation is the surgical procedure to increase breast size. It is a great option for women who don’t like their breast size and would like to improve the shape of their bust line. While increased breast size can be achieved through implants, some women don’t like foreign substances being placed in their bodies.

If you are such a woman with concerns about the use of implants, then breast augmentation with fat grafting or fat transfer is a viable option for you. Plus, it is a safe procedure that achieves great results.

At Politis Plastic Surgery, we provide a combination of high quality implants and safe fat transfer surgery to help women achieve their desired breast shape and volume. And we proudly offer the fat transfer approach as an effective alternative to implants in enhancing breast appearance.

What is fat grafting?

Also called autologous breast augmentation, fat grafting is the removal of fat through liposuction from one area of the body and transferring it to another part where it helps to enhance volume. 

The fat is usually harvested from the stomach, flanks or thighs and then separated from blood and other liposuction fluids. It is also cleaned with antibiotic solution to ensure that only healthy, non-infectious tissue is used for breast augmentation. 

Processed fat is then slowly injected into the breasts to the desired shape and volume, completing the augmentation procedure. Once injected, the fat fills in the hollowing that has occurred due to weight loss, trauma, surgery or ageing, and immediately helps to increase volume and enhance shape. 

After the injection of fat, the plastic surgeon gently massages the breasts to make sure the fat deposits are distributed evenly for a smooth, uniform appearance. Since the fat comes from the body, there are typically no adverse reactions to it.

Is the procedure ideal for you?

Breast augmentation by fat transfer is a perfect option for you if your breasts are naturally smaller in size or asymmetrically shaped. The procedure may equally help if you have loss of shape or volume after pregnancy, dramatic weight loss or aging.

More specifically, fat grafting is a great option if you desire a more natural alternative to breast implants.  Of course, you’ll need to have an adequate amount of fat on your body so that your plastic surgeon can harvest enough of it for the grafting. If you are a very thin woman or lack excess fat in your body, then you’re unfit for the procedure.

Increasing breast size by fat transfer is also perfect for you if you don’t like the dramatic results produced by breast implants. Fat grafting typically results in a more subtle enhancement. Plus, you won’t need to remove or replace the fat like is done with breast implants.

Besides, fat transfer is great if you want to fix minor issues. You can undergo breast augmentation by fat grafting to achieve a smaller increase in breast size, fix minor breast asymmetry, enhance breasts without scarring, or fine-tune the results of a breast implant procedure. 

During your initial consultation, Dr. Effie Politis will assess your body to determine if you have enough fat for liposuction. The surgeon will also establish whether you are in good health for the procedure. Likewise, you will be instructed to refrain from tobacco products or to quit smoking before the surgery as smoking directly affects the healing of cells and tissues.

What results should you expect?

You should expect your breast to increase by one full cup size after fat grafting. The breasts will feel soft and natural, and you will see the full effects of the procedure within a few months.

Dr. Effie Politis uses safe, cutting-edge liposuction technology to efficiently harvest fat without damaging the surrounding tissue. So by following your post-operative care instructions carefully, you should expect quick recovery and should be back on your feet within a few days.

It is normal for the body areas that underwent liposuction to feel sore. Also, you’ll have some bruising and swelling in the treated areas. But you’ll have prescribed pain relief medication to help minimize the discomfort as you recover.

Unmatched breast augmentation results

Would you like to enhance your breasts naturally? Through breast augmentation by fat transfer, you can achieve your desired breast size without the risks associated with breast implants.

At Politis Plastic Surgery, we offer a safe, effective fat grafting procedure that produces remarkable results. When you contact us for the procedure, Dr. Effie Politis will schedule your consultation session immediately. 

Then, during your visit, she will review your medical history, do a physical examination, and discuss your aesthetic goals and options. She will not only answer your questions and make valuable suggestions, but will also design for you a personalized fat grafting procedure to achieve your desired results.

For more information on how to enhance your breasts through breast augmentation, visit us at Politis Plastic Surgery in Tampa, FL for your plastic surgery.

What is Fat Transfer

Hi my name is Dr. Effie Politis with Politis Plastic Surgery

Fat Transfer is a great technique or adjunct to many of my surgeries. It can be used on the face, breast, buttocks or any other part of the body with any contour deformities. So basically we take fat from an area that has more fat, so typically the abdomen, the flanks and we transfer to an area that’s deficient of fat. The way we do that is by harvesting the fat with small cannulas liposuction, liposuction cannulas under a certain amount of pressure, then we process and filter the fat and wash it so we clean it up from all of the oil and ingredients that we don’t want. And then it is placed through a closed system into cannulas and we can inject that again for panfacial rejuvenation or breast enhancement if they’re looking for smaller volumes. Of course you’ve heard of the buttock augmentation with fat and that’s another procedure that we can do with this excess fat.

What Is The Fat Transfer Procedure?

Autologous fat grafting, or fat transfer, is a procedure that allows your surgeon to transfer your own fat from one area of your body to another. Fat transfer is often used for aesthetic and reconstruction procedures to: • Enhance volume and fullness of body areas with soft tissue loss or deficiency • Contour or reshape body areas • Improve overall symmetry and fine-tune body proportions In fat grafting, fat tissue is removed from other parts of your body — usually your thighs, belly, and buttocks — by liposuction. The tissue is then processed into liquid and injected into the breast area to recreate the breast. REVOLVE™ System is designed to remove localized deposits of excess fat through small incision and subsequently transfer the tissue back to the patient. Use of this device is limited to those physicians who, by means of formal professional training or sanctioned continuing medical education (including supervised operative experience), have attained proficiency in suction lipoplasty and tissue transfer. (source: revolvefatgrafting.com) If you want to know more, ask a #boardcertifiedplasticsurgeon for a FULL-BODY CONSULTATION to discuss the benefits of fat transfer.