The survival rate for fat grafting to breasts can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the technique used, the expertise of the surgeon, the amount of fat transferred, and the individual patient's biology. In my experience, here are some factors that can help in improving the fat graft survival:
1. Harvesting technique: The technique used to harvest the fat can play a role in the success of the graft. Gentle liposuction with low negative pressure and the use of a closed-system can help minimize trauma to the fat cells, which can increase their viability. In my practice, we do this using a Microaire system to harvest the fat, coupled with a Puregraft system to process the fat harvested.
2. Processing of the fat: The way in which the fat is processed prior to transfer can also impact graft survival. We use the pure graft system which has been shown to reliably reduce surgery time and increase fat graft yield.
3. Injection technique: The technique used to inject the fat into the recipient site is also critical. A slow, controlled injection technique, with small amounts of fat deposited in multiple layers, can help ensure a uniform distribution of the fat and minimize trauma to the surrounding tissue. We also use specialised cannulas made by Tulip to inject the fat grafts.
4. Patient factors: Certain patient factors, such as smoking, diabetes, and obesity, can negatively impact fat graft survival. Patients who are in good overall health, have good blood flow to the recipient site, and have adequate tissue volume are more likely to have a successful outcome.
5. Post-operative care: Proper post-operative care, including avoiding pressure on the graft site, maintaining good hydration, and avoiding smoking and other activities that can impair healing, can also help improve fat graft yield. I also advise patients not to lose weight over the next 4 months to ensure maximal take of the fat grafts.
Depending on your fat distribution it may be possible to harvest about 800cc-1.2L of fat from the abdomen and thighs and have about 200 cc to be injected into each breast. This can give an increase of 100-120 cc per side. which is about 1/2 to 1 cup size increase. I routinely inform patients that there may be a need for repeat grafting to achieve their goals if they want to have an increase of more than 1 cup size.
Hope this helps.
All the best!