Can an internal bra be combined with a fat transfer?

With other plastic surgeons and professors at Harvard, I wrote the chapter on breast augmentation revision with Strattice and other materials and techniques in Annals of Plastic Surgery. However, I certainly do not use it in every revision. I use it in probably 1 out of every 20 revisions for very specific indications in which there is an intrinsic laxity of tissues and poor local tissue support. This will largely be a function of the indication for the usage of Strattice. If it is used in recurrent capsular contracture, the concern would be different than if it were used to help in pocket reconstruction or prevention of bottoming out. With breast fat transfer, the fat must be injected through multiple planes in small amounts to the tissue through one tiny incision under each breast. The incision is too small to insert an internal bra.

The technique I recommend is The Bellesoma Method. This will reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage. Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained. Later, fat transfers can be performed if additional volume is desired.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

An internal bra generally refers to the placement of an acellular dermal matrix such as Strattice. This is generally used with breast implants to support the breast and/or breast crease/fold. A fat transfer by definition would not incorporate an incision or implant necessary to place an ADM. However, a fat transfer can be combined with a formal breast lift.

Dear Lil_Novica,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. Generally speaking, it is possible to combine fat transfer and breast lift. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Yes, an internal bra might be able to be don at the same time as a fat transfer. However, an internal bra is limited and is not a full lift. It is done with women who already have implants and need to pocket tightened.