Silicone and saline breast implants have long dominated the field of breast augmentation surgery. However, recent advances in autologous fat grating indicate that this procedure may soon rival implants, with ongoing research into different methods of using a patient’s own tissues to provide larger breasts. According to a new study published in the journal Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, the use of autologous fat grafting alongside a bra-like tissue expansion device has proven to be a safe and effective alternative to implants.
Autologous Fat Transfer: How Does It Work?
- uses the patient’s own tissues rather than an implant
- fat is extracted from the tummy, buttocks, or another part of the body where there may be unwanted fat
- the fat is injected into the patient’s breast, typically with about a dozen injection sites
- the patient’s body reintegrates the fat and the breast is left with a newly enlarged appearance
Pros and Cons of Autologous Fat Transfer
- fat deposits can be long-lasting and don’t require later removal for revision surgery natural look and feel
- body tends to absorb much of the fat
- risk that the transplanted tissue will not survive the procedure
- larger breast augmentations
- more fat graft placement
- higher graft survival rates
- minimal graft necrosis or complications
- 16% incidence of fat necrosis after a year