Breast fat transfer - does the fat stay?

Question

I am considering a fat transfer to my breasts to make them bigger. My breasts seem to shrink every time I consume caffeine. I am curious as to whether or not the fat that is transferred will stay or not.

Erman Ak, MD · Answer

Fat transfer to the breasts can provide a natural increase in volume, and with proper technique, much of the transferred fat can permanently survive. Typically, about 60–80% of the fat remains long-term. Caffeine consumption does not cause fat loss in the breasts or affect fat graft survival. However, significant changes in weight or hormones can impact long-term results. 
Erman AK, Dr. MD, Plastic Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgeon

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Terrific798166,
you will probably lose some fat in the early postoperative period. However, once you are fully healed your breast fat will be the same as fat in the rest of your body. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Not all fat transferred survives and only 60% of the fat survives.  The fat that does survives can be adversely effected by weight changes.  If you lose weight then the fat can be decreased.

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Rajaie Hazboun, MD, MBA · Answer

Thank you for posting your question here.
Fat grafting to the breast has been gaining traction recently since it uses your own tissue and there has been a trend of people preferring the use of natural materials over synthetic ones. It grows with you as you gain weight and it decreases as you lose weight so it keeps up with your general proportions.
Usually around roughly around 50-80% of fat transferred survives , this is dependent on multiple factors and for the most part is a little unpredictable , so some patients might need multiple sessions to achieve their desired outcome. 
There is also a limit to how much fat can be transferred without compromising the transferred fat ( if you put too much , the fat you transfer will be far from the new blood supply so it won't survive.
The fat that doesn't survive for the most part is re-absorbed but in some individuals can form cysts or granulomas.
For someone who wants to change the size of their breast dramatically (a couple of cup sizes etc) I would recommend going for an implant. Fat grafting can be coupled with it if desired to improve contours etc but usually won't offer you as big of a change as what an implant would.
I hope this helps , good Luck!

Karl William Schwarz, MD · Answer

Yes it is. It is your own fat and once it finds a new blood supply in its new location it will live and be there for ever just like all the fat in the other areas of your body. If you gain weight the fat cells will get bigger and your breasts will get bigger and then if you lose weight the fat cells will get smaller and your breasts will get smaller. The fat behaves just like it does anywhere else in your body.

Marvin F. Shienbaum, MD · Answer

Yes, fat transfer can be a relatively permanent procedure. When fat is successfully transferred and integrated into the recipient site, it generally stays there. However, some factors can influence the longevity of the results:

Recipient site: The quality and vascularity of the recipient site can affect how well the fat survives and thrives. Areas with good blood supply tend to have better long-term results.
Donor site: The quality and quantity of the fat harvested from the donor site can also impact the outcome.
Surgical technique: The surgeon's skill and technique in harvesting, processing, and injecting the fat can significantly influence the results.
Individual factors: Factors such as your age, overall health, and lifestyle can also play a role.
It's important to note that some fat absorption is normal after a fat transfer procedure. However, if you experience significant fat loss, it might be necessary to consider additional procedures.

To learn more about the potential longevity of your fat transfer results, consult with your plastic surgeon. They can provide a personalized assessment based on your individual circumstances.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Drinking caffeine does not decrease fat unless you are choosing to drink coffee/tea instead of eating food. If you lose weight, your fat will shrink. If you are very active, especially with running, you will lose fat.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

A certain percentage of fat is always lost with the fat Grafting procedure.
The percentage of fat that survives the procedure is dependent on how the procedures performed(provider selection) and to some extent each person‘s candidacy for fat transfer.
Most plastic surgeons typically overdraft to compensate for loss of grafted fat.
Even in the hands of the best providers, the procedure is gives fairly subtle results even in its best case scenario.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD

Breast fat transfer - does the fat stay?

Answers (8)