Fat For Breast Augmentation

Yes, another new trend, kind of. In the search for a “natural” material for breast augmentation, fat grafting is becoming popular. Fat transfers are not new, and actually neither is the practice of using one’s own fat for breast augmentation. In fact, this technique has gained popularity in breast reconstruction after mastectomy. The technique was being researched since before 2005, when the ban on silicone was still in effect. The problem is it does not always work. It certainly is not easier on the body,  because the recovery time from liposuction to remove the fat from another part of your body requires recovery too. Fat grafting for breast augmentation can also create calcification and be confusing on mammograms. The procedure is controversial and still being investigated.

Not to mention the fact that it costs more, and historically, about 40 to 50 percent of the fat does not survive. Much of the fat is reabsorbed by the body. Size is limited with fat grafting too. Usually only about 200 to 250 cc of fat per breast can be placed at a time. That increase is barely one cup size. So a patient cannot go very large.  Even with the Brava System, which includes relatively new preparation and post op techniques to increase blood circulation to the breast and to help expansion of tissue in the breast, only a small amount of fat can be accommodated to begin with. This Brava technique is showing 82% of the fat surviving as opposed to only the 55% that survived in the past. But as I said, you cannot go very large.

Fat transfer for breast augmentation takes much longer too. Breast augmentation using implants takes about a half hour on the table, but using fat, it can take up to 3 hours or more.

Usually women who seek breast augmentation want to go larger than fat transfer can accommodate. They also want to be sure about the outcome of size and symmetry. The new silicone breast implants that have been in use since 2006 are considered safe. If you are still wary, there are saline implants.  Both silicone and saline breast implants are available at Little Rock Cosmetic Surgery Center. I strongly suggest one of these two choices rather than fat transfer.

Dr. Branman

Call Melinda, my Patient/Surgery Coordinator to set up your consultation. 501 227-0707