Breast fat transfer - how much will be absorbed?

Question

I'm considering undergoing fat transfer to the breasts (currently small B). I'm concerned that after a year the breast fat may have completely dissipated and I will be left with small breasts and more sagging. I'm in my 20s, but my breasts are relatively lax. What can I do to reduce absorption? Is my age a good thing, or a bad thing? What chance is there I'll have to do the same procedure again, and do doctors generally discount under those circumstances? Thanks for your help.

Benjamin Baker, BMBS MBA FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Hi, thanks for your questions. Typically, approximately 70% of the fat that is transferred is retained long-term. You are correct that it is frequently the case that patients undergoing fat transfer require more than one procedure to achieve their goal. If you have very lax skin then it may be that a combination of techniques (e.g. uplift + fat transfer) will provide more longevity and reduce the need for multiple procedures. I would advise a face to face assessment with a plastic surgeon that is a specialist in aesthetic breast surgery so that you can understand what is achievable in your circumstances.

Antonios Mitsakos, MD · Answer

Approximately 70% of fat retention long term is a fairly realistic expectation (with a total of 200-250cc in total in most cases). A touch up is not uncommon but it is based on results and your aesthetic goals. Usually surgeons offer a discount to returning customers but this is something you may want to discuss beforehand.

Fulvio Urso-Baiarda, MD, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Most studies show in the region of 50-80% fat graft take - I quote 2/3 survival of grafted fat to my patients. I don't think age is as relevant as breast tightness - very tight small breasts are much harder to graft and my impression is that graft take is worse, whereas looser breasts (particularly those from which breast implants have been removed) retain fat a little better. You should arrange a consultation with a physical examination to get a better idea of your individual suitability. All the best!

Michael M. Omidi, MD, FACS · Answer

Age has not been shown to be a factor in breast fat transfer success rate.  Most studies quote 50%.  Anecdotal reports show even higher.  With the advent of improved fat harvest, processing and transfer techniques the resorption has decreased. 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

Jennifer L. Walden, MD · Answer

We have more predictable outcomes with fat transfer to the breasts now with more scientific data and techniques to support it as a viable option, but we still face the unpredictability of fat reabsorption. I typically tell my patients that what you see at about one year out is what you can expect to keep. On the average in the breasts, this is typically between 50-70% of what was placed. Age doesn't have as much to do with it as some of the other factors mentioned such as nature of the tissues, existing tissue, and donor site with volume of amount transferred.  I don't consider you being young a bad thing. Good luck!

Kamran Khoobehi, MD · Answer

Fat grafting is becoming more popular and more surgeons are offering it. The results and amount of take will depend on your breast tissue, amount of fat available and your surgeons technique. The average take should be around 60-70%.

Sheldon Lincenberg, MD · Answer

You ask a good question. In all fat transfer cases, breast or elsewhere, a portion of the fat will melt away and a portion will live on forever. To get optimal "take" of the fat grafts, there are two major factors, and a few minor factors, to consider. The two major factors are the thickness of the bed of tissue that the fat grafts will be feathered into and the abundance of fat that is available for donation from elsewhere. When the breasts are very small, only a small amount of fat, about equal to the amount of existing breast tissue, will take successfully. However after that fat heals fully, the process can be repeated for additional enhancement. Tip: If a 2nd grafting may be needed, do not remove fat during the 1st procedure in the interest of liporeduction of the donor area that will be thrown away. Leave it there for removal at a later date.In my opinion, each fat grafting session will add almost one full cup size to the breasts. For ladies with little fat on their bodies, fat grafting is not an option and one should consider silicone implants.

Khashayar Mohebali, MD, FACS · Answer

There are a few factors in predicting how much fat gets resorbed after fat grafting.  Even in the most ideal scenario a percentage does get reabsorbed.  Your age is a factor that is helpful for you. In general, I tell my patients that fat grafts to the breasts get a very subtle but natural augmentation of about 1/2-1 cup size.  Statistically speaking it may require more than one surgery and that is to be expected. You need to get evaluated by a surgeon comfortable with the procedure to give you more information.

Breast fat transfer - how much will be absorbed?

Answers (8)

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