Planning for Your Breast Lift With Implants Recovery

September 7, 2023/by Dr. David Sieber

Undergoing breast augmentation mastopexy, commonly known as a breast lift with implants surgery, marks an exciting step toward enhancing your self-confidence and achieving your desired aesthetic goals.

Naturally, a smooth and comfortable recovery is crucial to your overall healing experience. It is our goal to get you in and out of surgery with as little pain and discomfort as possible. Moreover, after your implant and breast lift surgery, we want to get you back to your normal routine as quickly as possible.

The good news is, breast lift recovery and breast augmentation recovery are both relatively simple recoveries. There will be some discomfort, but it should be minimal. And you should be back to your daily activities very soon.

Below, we’ll walk you through essential steps to plan and manage your recovery.

What to Expect After Breast Lift With Implants Surgery

Everyone’s breast lift with implants recovery timeline will be different. But some facts are pretty much universal. Here are some things to know about what you can expect post-implant and breast lift procedure:

Typical Breast Lift With Implants Recovery Timeline

Recovery duration varies based on individual healing responses and the extent of the procedure. While some patients might feel comfortable enough to engage in light activities after a week, it’s important to note that the overall recovery process usually spans approximately 4 to 6 weeks. And you won’t see your full results for several months.

This gradual timeline allows your body to heal properly and minimize the risk of complications.

Discomfort and Pain

Experiencing discomfort and pain is a common aspect of the recovery process. However, it’s worth noting that the level of pain varies from person to person. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to manage any discomfort you might experience during the initial days.

Complemented by proper post-operative care and adherence to guidelines, this proactive approach ensures a more comfortable recovery journey.

Returning to Work and Daily Activities

After about a week, patients can typically return to light activities that don’t strain the chest area. While you might be able to engage in daily routines and sedentary tasks, it’s important to avoid strenuous activities during this initial phase. As your body heals, you can gradually reintegrate more vigorous activities over the course of 4 to 6 weeks, fostering a steady return to your normal routine.

Scarring Post-Surgery

Scarring is a natural part of any surgical procedure, including breast lift with implants. Furthermore, the breast skin can be very delicate, which means it tends to scar easily.

With that said, your surgeon will play a pivotal role in minimizing the visibility of breast lift with implants scars. Additionally, your surgeon will provide scar care instructions that include proper wound care, use of silicone scar gels, and possibly silicone sheets.

While complete elimination of scars is not possible, diligent adherence to these guidelines can lead to significantly improved scar appearance over time, allowing you to confidently embrace your enhanced results.

7 Steps to Planning for Your Breast Lift With Breast Implants Recovery

1. Prepare Your Recovery Space

Before your surgery, it’s important to create a comfortable and restful environment for your recovery. Set up a cozy space in your home with extra pillows, blankets, and items you may need within arm’s reach.

Ensure you have easy access to entertainment, books, or any other activities that can help pass the time during your recovery period. Remember that you won’t be able to do any heavy lifting.

2. Arrange for Assistance

During the initial days of your recovery, you might need some assistance with daily tasks. Enlist the help of a family member or friend to provide support, especially during the first 48 hours.

Having someone around to help with cooking, household chores, adjusting your surgical bra, running to the store, or any other immediate needs will alleviate stress and allow you to focus on healing.

3. Follow Post-Operative Instructions Diligently

Your plastic surgeon will provide you with specific post-operative instructions tailored to your unique situation. Follow these instructions diligently, including guidelines for medication, dressing changes, and showering. These instructions are designed to minimize complications and promote a smooth recovery.

4. Manage Pain and Discomfort

Some discomfort is natural after breast augmentation mastopexy surgery. Your surgeon will likely prescribe pain medication to help manage any discomfort. Take the prescribed medications as directed and report any unusual or severe pain to your surgeon.

5. Focus on Nutrition and Hydration

Maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated are crucial aspects of your recovery. Nutrient-rich foods aid in repairing the breast tissue, while adequate hydration supports your body’s functions. Include foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein to encourage optimal recovery.

6. Gradual Return to Physical Activities

While resting is important, light movement is encouraged to prevent stiffness and promote blood circulation. Engage in short walks around your home to avoid complications associated with prolonged inactivity. At the same time, it’s vital to avoid any strenuous exercises or activities until your surgeon gives you the green light.

7. Follow Up with Your Surgeon

Your post-operative appointments are essential to monitor your progress and ensure your recovery is on track. Attend all follow-up appointments as scheduled, and don’t hesitate to ask any questions or address concerns you might have during these visits.

FAQ: Breast Lift With Implants Recovery Time

Are there any restrictions on movement or sleeping positions during recovery?

Avoid sleeping on your stomach, and sleep on your back at a slight incline. Follow your surgeon’s guidance on movement restrictions during the initial healing phase.

How long is recovery for breast lift with implants?

This depends on the individual. Most patients can return to light activities and work after a week. After several months, exercise can be reintegrated. And full results may not appear until the six-month mark or longer.

Can I shower after the surgery?

Your surgeon will provide guidelines; usually, showers are permitted after the first few days, but you’ll need to avoid getting incisions wet initially.

What’s the recommended follow-up schedule after the surgery?

Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor healing. Generally, patients have appointments within the first week, after a month, and periodically afterward.

When will I see the final results of my breast lift with implants?

While initial results are visible after a few weeks, it may take several months for swelling to fully subside and the final outcome to emerge.

How much does breast lift with implants cost?

The cost of a breast lift with implants varies depending on factors such as location, surgeon experience, and the specific surgical approach. On average, the procedure will encompass surgical fees, facility costs, anesthesia, and post-operative care.

What if I have concerns or questions during my recovery?

Reach out to your surgeon’s office. Clear communication ensures any issues are addressed promptly, easing your recovery journey.

Book a Consultation Appointment Today

Whether you have questions about your recovery or are thinking about breast enhancement for the first time, please feel free to reach out to our office any time.

New patients can book a consultation appointment where we will go over your goals, run through your medical history, take a look at some breast lift with implants before and after photos, and create a plan of action.

Come into your appointment with an open mind. Some patients who think they want more breast volume actually need a lift. And some patients who think they need a breast reduction would actually benefit from a breast lift vs breast reduction.

By meticulously planning your plastic surgery recovery, following your surgeon’s guidelines closely, and prioritizing self-care, you’re taking vital steps toward achieving the best possible outcome after breast implant and lift surgery.

Remember, your patience and commitment to the recovery process will ultimately lead to a rejuvenated you, ready to embrace the positive changes that lie ahead!

References

https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/articles/what-to-expect-after-your-breast-augmentation-surgery

Breast Implant Removal Before and After: What to Expect

Articles

September 3, 2023/by Dr. David Sieber

Facing the decision of whether or not to remove breast implants can result in a mix of emotions. In fact, it’s completely normal to have concerns about how to best prepare for the journey ahead.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the process, offering insights, reassurance, and practical tips to ensure you are well-equipped for your breast implant removal experience.

Why Choose Breast Implant Removal?

There are several reasons why individuals might opt for breast implant removal:

1. Changing Aesthetic Preferences: Over time, aesthetic preferences can change, and some individuals may decide to embrace a more natural look. In this case, fat grafting or a breast lift may be great alternatives.

2. Health and Comfort: Some people experience discomfort or health issues related to their breast implants, such as pain, inflammation, or even implant rupture, prompting them to consider removal.

3. Lifestyle Changes: Lifestyle changes, such as shifts in exercise routines or personal values, can also lead to the decision to remove breast implants.

Is Breast Implant Removal Painful?

The level of discomfort associated with breast implant removal is generally mild and similar to that of breast augmentation. Still, it varies from person to person and can sometimes be slightly more uncomfortable if you have extensive scar tissue (capsular contracture).

Typically, the procedure is performed under general anesthesia, ensuring you are comfortable during the process. While some discomfort is to be expected during the healing period, your surgeon will provide pain management options to help reduce pain effectively.

Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Implant Removal?

If you’re considering breast implant removal, you might be a good candidate if:

1. You have concerns about your implants and their impact on your health and well-being.

2. You have realistic expectations about the potential outcomes of the procedure.

3. You are in good overall health and don’t have medical conditions that could complicate surgery.

We recommend you take a look at some breast implant removal before and after pictures to get a better idea of what you can expect. If you are also considering a breast lift, be sure to search for “breast implant removal and lift before and after photos”. Conversely, search “breast implant removal no lift before and after photos” if you are not interested in this additional procedure.

How to Plan for Breast Implant Removal Before and After

1. Research and Education: Whether undergoing breast implant removal, breast augmentation, breast reduction, or any other plastic surgery, patients should begin by educating themselves about the procedure steps. Understand what the procedure entails and gather information about the recovery period, potential risks, and expected outcomes. Look for before and after breast implant removal pictures to get a visual representation of what to anticipate.

2. Consultation: Schedule a consultation with a skilled plastic surgeon who specializes in breast implant removal. Discuss your goals, concerns, and expectations openly. If you’re considering a breast implant removal along with fat transfer, breast lift, or other surgical procedures, your surgeon will guide you on the best approach for your specific case.

3. Mental and Emotional Preparation: Preparing for breast implant removal goes beyond physical readiness. Take time to mentally and emotionally prepare for the changes ahead. Address any concerns or anxieties you may have, and lean on your support system for guidance.

4. Plan for Recovery: Organize your post-surgery recovery period. Arrange for someone to assist you during the initial days, gather essential supplies, and create a comfortable space for your recuperation. Research breast implant removal recovery and after effects to have a clear understanding of what to expect.

Q&A: Breast Implant Removal

What is the recovery process like after breast implant removal?

The recovery period varies, but you can expect some discomfort, swelling, and bruising. Your surgeon will provide guidelines for post-operative care and pain management to ensure a smooth recovery.

What after breast implant removal side effects can I expect?

Some common side effects after breast implant removal include temporary discomfort, swelling, bruising, and changes in breast appearance and sensation. These effects are usually manageable and subside over time.

When can I resume normal activities after breast implant removal?

While recovery times vary, most individuals can gradually return to their regular activities within a few weeks. Still, more strenuous activities may need to be postponed for a bit longer to allow for proper healing.

Book a Consultation With Dr. Sieber Today

Your journey toward renewed comfort and confidence begins with a consultation appointment.

Please call today to set up your consultation with double board certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Sieber. Dr. Sieber and his experienced and compassionate team are here to listen, answer questions, and guide you through this important decision.

Do not hesitate to take this next step toward embracing your authentic self. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.

References

https://www.my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21799-breast-implant-removal

What to Expect: Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation Before and After

Articles

August 31, 2023/by Dr. David Sieber

Fat transfers are a long-lasting, safe and well-tolerated procedure for women that produces natural-looking results. Each year, many individuals undergo breast fat transfers with success and are pleasantly satisfied with their results.

WHAT ARE FAT TRANSFERS?

A fat transfer, also called fat grafting, is a procedure where the plastic surgeon makes a fat transfer from one area of your body to another. The goal of this surgical procedure is to augment or improve the location by fat grafting. The procedure involves:

Using liposuction to extract adipose fat
Process the fat
Reinject purified fat into the improvement-needed area

Plastic surgeons have been reliably using fat transfers since the 1990’s as a way to enhance and improve the cosmetic appearance of the:

Hands
Breast
Buttocks
Face
Hips
Feet

However, today, doctors have documented the therapeutic benefits and advantages of fat transfers in the healing of scars and wounds, along with fat’s ability to repair breast tissue damage due to radiation treatment.

Fat transfers are a procedure growing in popularity. The natural results, and long lasting impacts are reasons many patients are opting for autologous fat transfer procedures more and more.

PREVALENCE OF FAT TRANSFERS

The fat transfer procedures that showed the most substantial increases in 2016 according to The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery are:

Breast fat transfer (up 41% with over 25,000 performed)
Face fat transfer (up 17% with 56,093 procedures performed)
Buttocks fat transfer (19,019 procedures performed)

BEFORE FAT TRANSFER: COMMON REASONS TO HAVE FAT TRANSFER

The reason behind fat transfer to breast, is to fill in or augment volume-deficient spots. Other commonly injected or grafted areas include:

Skin Depressions (after liposuction and scarring)
Hands
Buttocks and breast (for augmentation)
Face (including lips)

You need to have donor areas for where the surgeon can take fat from. It’s essential you don’t have any circulation issues, either from smoking or a medical condition. For those who are looking for a place to search out breast augmentation before and after realself is a resource that many reportedly use.

Some common reasons for having fat transfer are:

1. BREAST AUGMENTATION

If you would like a modest increase in the size of your breasts, you’d be a good candidate for fat transfer of the breast, however, your breasts need to already have good skin tone and a nice shape. Breast fat grafting is a procedure that works outstandingly well for many patients with the right patient profile.

If you have sagging breasts, poor skin or want a substantial increase in the size of your breasts, a breast augmentation procedure with fat transfer isn’t a good option for you. The issue with only using fat to enhance the breasts lies in obtaining large fat volumes to “take.” For these patients a different breast augmentation procedure would be better. A breast implant procedure or a breast lift would more likely be the right procedure for them.

Still, if you look at fat transfer breast augmentation before and after, you can see that the results are natural and stunning. The result is a very natural breast augmentation. When done on the right patient a fat transfer breast augmentation procedure results in natural looking breasts.

2. FACIAL FAT TRANSFER

For facial fat transfer, the surgeon can remove fat from your thighs, abdomen transfer breast or other areas and inject it into facial creases like:

Smile lines
Laugh lines
Crow’s feet

The surgeon can also fill in sunken areas of your lips, face and cheeks and acne scars. They can even use grafted fat to:

Reduce lines between your mouth and nose
Minimize forehead wrinkles
Correct skin indentations or depressions

3. BREAST IMPLANTS PLUS FAT TRANSFER

If the surgeon needs to optimize your breast shape during breast implant surgery, fat transfer could be useful. If you’ve just had breast augmentation with implants and you have residual breast abnormalities, the surgeon can fill in the abnormalities with fat to produce an optimal shape and smooth contour during breast procedure.

4. BREAST AUGMENTATION WITH FAT TRANSFER

If you have breast defects after a breast cancer lumpectomy, fat transfer is an efficient technique for filling in these defects.

Fat transfer is also an option following mastectomy for total breast reconstruction, but to achieve enough breast volume, this is typically a multistage process requiring sequential, fat transfer breast part procedures.

5. HAND REJUVENATION WITH FAT TRANSFER

Fat transfer into your hands is good for:

Plumping up wrinkled areas
Adding volume
Improving skin quality over time
Covering underlying tendons and vessels

6. BUTTOCK AUGMENTATION WITH FAT TRANSFER

Many individuals looking for a more rounded, fuller buttock will choose a “Brazilian butt lift” that uses fat transfer for providing patients a more curvaceous buttock but without any implant use. Liposuction is often used for collecting the autologous fat the surgeon injects and then sculpts in the surrounding area.

If you’re in decent general health, have realistic expectations and a positive attitude, you’d likely be a great candidate for these procedures.

AFTER FAT TRANSFER: WHAT CAN I EXPECT?

You’ll likely want to know what to expect as far as recovery and results of your fat transfer procedure.

RECOVERY

Fat transfer requires a shorter recovery period, it’s likely you’ll be able to resume your normal activity immediately following your procedure. You should expect some redness, bruising and swelling in both the recipient and donor sites. Your symptom severity will depend on the location and size of your treated area.

The only scarring you could have would be from liposuction, which the surgeon uses for removing excess fat, from the donor site. Since liposuction incisions are small, your scars would also be small and placed in hidden areas.

In some cases, however, the incisions can’t be hidden, but this depends on the location of the fat cells and deposits on your body. Also, the degree or amount of scarring will depend on the surgeon’s skills and technique and your genetic makeup.

Most scars from liposuction fade and are hardly noticeable over time. If you have any questions about scarring, make sure to ask your surgeon for advice and further information that can help you in the recovery process. If you are looking for a good photo of a fat transfer breast augmentation before and after reddit is a good place to ask.

RESULTS

You can expect the fat transfer areas to appear fuller and softer, providing you with a rejuvenated and refreshed appearance.

The longevity of the results and survival of the fat depend on the skills of the surgeon, how they harvested and purified the fat and where and how they injected it. Fat transfer needs a surgeon who has highly developed skills based on knowledge of the technique and experience for them to perform it successfully.
A microfat grafting process, while labor intensive, is the best way of ensuring a high percentage of grafted fat “takes.”
When performed successfully, the injected fat establishes a new supply of blood from your body and obtains it’s required nourishment for survival. Results can and are usually permanent when this occurs, but there could still be a percentage of fat that doesn’t take and you’d require touchup procedures.

For the most healthy and beautiful outcome and safety, it’s essential you follow up with your plastic surgeon for evaluation at certain times as instructed, and whenever you’re concerned with or have questions about fat transfer healing and results.

Plastic surgeons are there to help and are always more than willing to assist with any questions you may have during your recovery process. Whether undergoing a breast enhancement, a fat grafting procedure for your face or any other autologous fat grafting procedure, you surgeon will be more than happy to help with any questions

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

How many people get facial fat transfer surgery each year?

As per statistics provided by I.S.A.P.S., over 500,000 facial fat grafting procedures are conducted globally on an annual basis. This trend is on a swift upward trajectory, accompanied by a notable level of contentment from both patients (91.1%) and surgeons (88.6%)

What is the rate of success for fat transfer to breast?

Regarding the effectiveness of fat grafting, around 55 to 80 percent of the fat obtained from other body areas and relocated to the breast region endures successfully. Essentially, this results in a success rate of 55 to 80 percent for breast augmentation through fat transfer.

How long does a fat transfer to your hands last?

Following a hand rejuvenation treatment that employs the patient’s own fat cells, individuals experience hands that appear smoother and more youthful. The outcomes of this autologous fat-based hand rejuvenation technique typically endure for a span of five to ten years, with the possibility of indefinite results in some cases.

How many buttock augmentation with fat transfer are performed each year?

Data from the Aesthetic Plastic Surgery National Databank illustrates a significant rise in the count of BBL (Brazilian Butt Lift) surgeries, escalating from 3,762 instances in 2011 to 61,387 cases in 2021.

Dr. Su commented, “Undoubtedly, the annual frequency of BBLs has been experiencing a rapid surge.” He further noted that South Florida holds the record for the highest number of BBL surgeries performed anywhere in the United States.

CONTACT DR. DAVID SIEBER FOR A FAT TRANSFER

To find out more about a fat transfer with San Francisco Cosmetic Surgeon Dr. Sieber, call us today at: 415-915-9000 or schedule a consultation here.

How to Plan for Breast Fat Transfer Recovery

Articles

August 30, 2023/by Dr. David Sieber

Women who would like to modestly enhance the size of their breasts but are generally happy with their overall shape may be ideal patients for natural breast augmentation.

Find out if you’re a good candidate for a fat transfer augmentation.

In this article, we’ll delve into what you can expect during the recovery period — and specifically, how you can plan ahead to make your recovery as fast and comfortable as possible.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING RECOVERY

Breast augmentation fat transfer recovery typically lasts around three to five weeks, after which time all major swelling will be significantly reduced. At this time, patients should be able to see the majority of their results.

People can usually return to work and light activity about three to five days after their procedure, but swelling and other light side effects may still be present.

During the initial period of recovery from a fat transfer breast augmentation procedure, it’s important to avoid lifting heavy objects (anything over 10 pounds) or performing any type of vigorous activity (sports, running, cycling, etc.).

Those in recovery should, however, get up and walk around for brief, frequent periods throughout the day. They should also eat a healthy diet and get plenty of hydration and sleep.

A special compression garment must be worn for approximately two weeks after surgery. After this, for the next 10 weeks, compression clothing must be worn. Dr. Sieber will provide you with a comprehensive list of the garments you’ll need to wear during your breast fat transfer recovery.

PLAN AHEAD FOR THE BEST OUTCOME

The best way to have a successful outcome after a breast augmentation that uses the fat transfer method is to plan ahead. As soon as you have met with Dr. Sieber for your consultation appointment and been cleared for surgery, you’ll book your procedure date.

Once you know this date, you can start planning around it. For example, you can ask for time off at your job, and arrange for someone you trust to take you home after the procedure is finished.

In regards to home preparations, make sure you have healthy snacks and pre-made meals on-hand. Freezer meals such as soups, stews, casseroles, and other quick dishes can be very useful when your mobility is limited during the recovery period.

Sometimes, those in recovery may even prearrange to pick up their prescription medications before their surgery so that they don’t have to rush to do this right after their procedure.

FOLLOW DR. SIEBER’S AFTERCARE INSTRUCTIONS

The best way to have a successful recovery from any cosmetic surgery is to make sure you are abiding by your surgeon’s post operative instructions. Dr. Sieber will give you a packet with information that details how to care for yourself during your recovery.

This will include things like how to sleep, how to care for your incision sites, what compression garments to wear and for how long, what you should be eating, what activities and/or positions or movements you should avoid, etc.

The patients who follow these instructions closely are the most successful after fat transfer surgery. This means that they have the fewest complications and the best results.

Unfortunately, some patients rush things after cosmetic surgery. For example, they may try to return to exercise too quickly or push themselves in other ways.

These patients are putting their health at risk. In addition, they may be prolonging their recovery times and compromising their results.

Strain and tension (too much reaching, stretching, and exertion, for example) can cause incisions to heal poorly. Thick, raised, darkened scars may result instead of smooth, flat, light-colored scars that are hardly noticeable.

It is of the utmost importance that you follow your post-operative instructions after breast augmentation. You can look up breast fat augmentation recovery pictures before your surgery to get an idea of what to expect.

GET HELP AT HOME

Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask for help after surgery. You will, of course, need someone there at the surgical facility directly after your procedure to take you home. You won’t be able to drive yourself.

But this won’t be the only time you’ll need assistance. Most patients will benefit from having someone reliable who can stay with them or come to their home frequently after surgery to assist with other daily activities.

For example, you may need help caring for children — especially if you have little ones at home. You may need help with cooking and cleaning also. It can be beneficial to have someone who can run out and get groceries and pick up prescriptions as well.

As is the case whenever you need help from friends, family, or hired assistance, it’s important to arrange things as soon as possible.

Planning ahead in this way will ensure that you aren’t rushing to take care of these tasks right before your surgery or trying to get help when you are in those challenging first days of recovery.

FAQS: FAT TRANSFER RECOVERY

FAT TRANSFER TO BREAST RECOVERY?

After the fat transfer procedure, your breasts will feel tender, swollen, and somewhat uncomfortable. During the recovery process you may feel some numbness or hypersensitivity as well.

Your breasts may be slightly sore. You may also have some discomfort where you had liposuction (where the fat was harvested for the transfer procedure).

HOW LONG ARE BEASTS SORE AFTER FAT TRANSFER?

During the first 7 days you may feel bruising and swelling, but some discomfort is expected. Almost anything can be treated quickly by using meds like acetaminophen for pain or nausea-causing symptoms. Usually a patient reports a complete relaxation after about a week of treatment.

SHOULD I MASSAGE MY BREAST AFTER FAT TRANSFER?

No. Avoid massages after fat transfer procedures. You need to give the fat time to adhere in its new location. Pressure and agitation may discourage the adherence process.

WHAT ARE THE RESTRICTIONS A FAT TRANSFER PROCEDURE TO BREAST

During the first week don’t lift more than 10lbs. You must avoid intense activity for at least three days after your surgery.

WHAT TO EAT AFTER FAT TRANSFER TO BREAST?

After any surgery, it’s important to eat a well-balanced diet of lean meat, whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats.

WHAT SHOULD YOU EXPECT FROM A BREAST SURGERY AFTER 5 YEARS?

Everyone is different. Most people will still have great results after five years as long as they maintain their weight and stay healthy.

You can also check fat transfer procedure reviews and before and after photos to see what it will be like to have a fat transfer breast augmentation 1 year later, 5 years later, and beyond.

HOW IS A FAT TRANSFER BREAST AUGMENTATION DIFFERENT THAN BREAST IMPLANTS?

Dimensions and Form: Breast Implants grant you the option to select both the dimensions and contour of your breasts. Breast size and breast shape are a bit more flexible with implants.

On the other hand, fat transfer augmentation restricts you to the quantity of fat that can be preserved and infused, along with the inherent shape of your breasts. A fat transfer results in extremely natural looking results as the augmentation is done by way of fat cells transferred directly into the breast tissue.

BOOK A CONSULTATION TO LEARN ABOUT BREAST FAT TRANSFER

Dr. David Sieber is one of the few double board-certified plastic surgeons in the San Francisco Bay Area. His training and expertise make him the ideal choice for your breast augmentation.

If you’ve been considering breast augmentation and you think a fat transfer may work for you, contact our office today to book a consultation with Dr. Sieber. We look forward to hearing from you!

3 Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation Risks

Articles

August 29, 2023/by Dr. David Sieber

Fat transfer is an overall safe procedure that can have fantastic results for women looking to increase their breast size.

When compared with breast augmentation, the fat transfer breast augmentation procedure doesn’t require implants, which means no foreign body-related risks such as leaking or capsular contracture.

And because large incisions aren’t necessary for the fat transfer process, there’s no significant scarring as is sometimes the case with breast lift surgery.

With that said, it’s important to emphasize that all surgeries come with at least some potential risks. Breast augmentation through fat transfer risks exist, although they are not terribly common. So, what are the risks of fat transfer to breast surgery?

Let’s take a look at three to know about before moving forward with this surgical procedure.

FAT TRANSFER BREAST AUGMENTATION RISKS:

1. FAT REABSORPTION

One of the fat transfer risks that come with breast augmentation is fat reabsorption. This occurs when your surgeon transfers fat cells from other parts of your body to your breasts, but they don’t adhere to the new location.

Surgeons who are highly skilled at fat transfer breast augmentations know that a large percentage of the fat cells that are transferred are automatically going to be absorbed by the patient’s own body.

This is normal and to be expected. For this reason, surgeons generally transfer a surplus of fat cells to the breasts so that any that are absorbed won’t affect the final outcome.

If your surgeon does not take into account fat reabsorption or if too much of the relocated fat cells are absorbed into the body, your results may be diminished. When it comes to breast augmentation with transfer risks, this is one that many patients wonder about.

2. FAT NECROSIS

If you opt for breast augmentation using fat transfer, fat necrosis is another one of the risks that come with a fat transfer breast augmentation.

Fat necrosis is basically when breast tissue becomes damaged or dies. This results in hardened lumps (or sometimes, oil cysts) that may appear on the breasts after the fat transfer procedure.

While the issue here is not necessarily dangerous, it can certainly cause cosmetic problems for the patient as it will result in unevenly contoured breasts. The lumps or cysts may also end up being uncomfortable and even painful as well.

Other symptoms related to fat necrosis include calcified lumps mixed with oil cysts, bruising and redness around the lumps, pain surrounding the lumps or cysts, discoloration of the skin, and an overall change in the shape and size of the breasts.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact your surgeon right away.

3. INFECTION

Any surgery comes with a risk of infection. Fortunately, it is rare for a fat transfer augmentation to result in infection.

With that said, if you are a smoker, have a weakened immune system, or have other risk factors for developing infections, it’s important to speak with your surgeon about these possible complications before scheduling your surgery.

An infection after surgery can become a potentially life-threatening situation. It is important to contact your plastic surgeon right away if you have any concerns.

WHAT IF I HAVE AN UNNATURAL-LOOKING OUTCOME?

Most patients opt for a fat transfer procedure because they want a natural outcome instead of very noticeably bigger breasts — as may occur with implants.

Achieving a beautiful fat transfer breast augmentation is relatively easy because you will be using your body’s own fat to adjust the size of your breasts. No foreign bodies (implants) are necessary and recovery can be quicker.

If you undergo this procedure and end up with an outcome you are unhappy with — for example, if you have lumps or cysts due to fat necrosis or the size of your breasts isn’t as large as you had wanted — you should speak with your surgeon as soon as possible.

One thing to remember, however, is that the final size and overall appearance of your breasts is not going to be completely settled until full healing has taken place.

For this reason, you will want to wait until you are completely healed from the procedure before determining whether you are truly unhappy with your outcome.

FAQS: FAT TRANSFER BREAST AUGMENTATION RISKS

Which is better, breast implants, augmentation or fat transfer?

There are pros and cons of a fat transfer breast augmentation procedure and traditional (implant) breast augmentation. The procedure that will work best for you will largely depend on how large you want your breasts.

If you’re looking for a big change in breast shape and a significant increase in the size of your breasts, you may want to opt for augmentation with implants. Fat transfer breast augmentation is often better for moderate size increases and a more natural look.

How many cup sizes can you go up with a body fat transfer?

The fat transfer breast augmentation technique cannot drastically increase the size of your breasts. Most patients are able to go up about one cup size with this procedure.

Is a fat transfer breast augmentation worth it?

For the majority of breast augmentation patients, absolutely. Most patients who opt for fat transfer breast augmentation are extremely happy with their results after 5 years.

Does fat transfer to breasts last?

Yes. fat transfer to breasts lasts for a very long time with very little need for concern once healing has finished.

What are the complications of fat grafting breast implants?

The primary issues frequently mentioned in relation to autologous fat grafting were enduring pain and hematoma, which could not be reversed.

What are the safest breast implants to get?

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has deemed both saline and silicone implants to be safe and authorized. These implants have a similar lifespan of approximately 10-15 years and are capable of delivering outcomes that appear natural.

Is breast cancer a risk I should worry about?

Undergoing a fat transfer breast augmentation procedure does not elevate the risk of breast cancer. Furthermore, for the majority of individuals, mammograms remain effective even post this procedure. This is due to the presence of both fatty tissue and breast tissue within the breasts themselves.

LEARN ABOUT FAT TRANSFER BREAST AUGMENTATION RISKS: BOOK CONSULT

Overall, the fat transfer breast augmentation procedure is very safe. Moreover, it’s an excellent option for women who want a modest increase to their breast size and natural-looking results.

Dr. David Sieber is always happy to answer any questions related to breast procedures, whether it be augmentation, fat transfer, breast reduction surgery, breast reconstruction or other cosmetic procedures. Whether you have more inquiries related to breast fat transfer risks or questions about another procedure, a consultation is the best way to get your answers.

Call today to book your consultation with Dr. Sieber. We look forward to hearing from you.