Does the density of breasts affect breast fat transfer results?

ChHernm,
Thanks for your question. I have found that women with dense breasts have a very "tight" skin envelope over the breast. I warn them that this is not a good recipe for taking of the fat for "volume." These clients may require more than one session and should be willing to accept no more than 1/2 cup size increase in volume.
Hope that helps.

Dear ChHernm,

fat transfer breast augmentation is a viable alternative for women who desire larger breasts without the use of implants. Fat transfer is also widely used in reconstruction of the breast after a mastectomy or lumpectomy. It can also be very effective in correcting the size and shape of the breasts due to genetic problems such as tuberous breast or Poland Syndrome, two conditions that look like misshapen or underdeveloped breasts.
In addition, the following scenarios are also reason to consider breast fat grafting:
• If you have chest areas that appear creased and sunken
• If you desire more permanent correction than is provided by temporary fillers
• If you wish to improve your body contour, revise scars, fill bodily depressions and rejuvenate the natural curve of your breasts
• To fill in contour irregularities or hide obvious signs of breast implants
You should discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon and make sure your surgeon understands your concerns and your breast augmentation goals. 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

Hi there! Thank you so much for your question and for sharing this here.
Breast fat grafting is an excellent tool for small volume increases and refining breast shape or contour. However, the success of fat transfer depends on the fatty component of the breast, not the dense glandular tissue. Fat cells need to be placed next to healthy fat in order to survive and establish new blood supply. Transferring fat into dense glandular tissue or directly into cysts will not survive and can lead to fat necrosis, oil cysts, or calcifications.
In the majority of patients, the amount of fat that can be safely transferred is naturally limited by the amount of fat present in the breast already. Typically, 60–70% of the grafted fat survives, and overloading the breast with too much fat can reduce survival and increase complications. Fat grafting is therefore best for enhancing contour, filling small areas, and improving symmetry, rather than large-volume augmentation.
Every patient is unique — anatomy, history, physical exam, tissue quality, goals, and risk profile all affect what is recommended.Because of this, this should not be taken as personal medical advice. The next step is always an in-person evaluation with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can examine you and discuss individualized plan options.
Hope this helps!— Georgina Nichols, MD FACS