Breast augmentation after failed fat grafting to breast?

Question

I had a fat transfer to my breasts done this past march, and although I am in love with the results from the lipo, unfortunately most of the fat has disappeared from my breasts. I knew this was a risk from the beginning, my ps was very clear that fat grafting could be unpredictable. That being said, I would like to go ahead with a breast augmentation, and was wondering if there would be any issues with it since I had the fat grafting, and what a good time frame to wait would be?

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

Im sorry to hear about thisMost women see at least a small difference after fat grafting.A lot of times the breast gets very swollen such some people think is the fat and then that goes down.I would still wait 6 mod so that you can see the final resultyou wouldn't want to choose an implant thats too small and then have further swelling decrease.The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative breast surgery.best of luck!Dr Schwartz

Michael M. Omidi, MD, FACS · Answer

Generally it is optimal to wait until all the swelling has resolved which is 6 months to 1 years.  Breast augmentation should be possible even after a fat transfer procedure assuming there are no cysts, active fat necrosis, significant asymmetry or other problems.  A visit with a plastic surgeon can best determine if you are a good candidate for implants. An in-person exam with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the best way to assess your needs and provide true medical advice. Best of luck. Dr. Michael Omidi

Tracy Kayan, MD · Answer

It would be wise to wait at least 3 months after your fat grafting to pursue an augmentation. The fact that you've had this fat transfer procedure should not affect your augmentation procedure itself or your ultimate results.

Robert Whitfield, MD · Answer

There is should not be an issue with breast augmentation for you.  It sounds like you are being informed properly by your plastic surgeon.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Unless the breasts feel lumpy from the fat injection, it is unlikely that it will contribute to any issues when undergoing an augmentation.

Samir Shureih, MD · Answer

After fat transfer where all or most of the fat transferred has been absorbed, augmentation with implants is the only predictable procedure for breast augmentation.In my practice you will need a mammogram to document all the possible fat necrosis and calcifications before the surgery of breast implants and another mammogram 6-12 months after the breast augmentation. Your insurance may not pay for the mammogram. But it is critical for future follow up of your breast and mammograms.

Melek Kayser, MD (retired) · Answer

Thank you for your question. Although fat grafting can be unpredictable with regard to its retention, there will always be some degree of fat retention. The degree of swelling immediately after surgery can appear as though you've lost more fat than you actually have and therefore, it is advisable to wait an adequate amount of time to allow complete settling of the swelling and stabilization of the fat before proceeding to additional procedures. I would recommend approximately 6 months. Also, it is important to realize that even though there may have been some fat loss, the placement of fat has set the foundation for additional fat grafting to be performed that would even, perhaps, allow a greater retention or expansion of fat grafting should you decide that a second procedure would be beneficial. It would not be unreasonable to consider another fat grafting procedure if implants post certain concerns to you. Finally, keep in mind that breast implants may interfere with mammography whigh, along with the potential risks associated with fat grafting could be additive. Please ask your plastic surgeon about this.. I hope this helps and have a wonderful day. Dr Kayser - Detroit

Breast augmentation after failed fat grafting to breast?

Answers (7)

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