Breast fat transfer instead of implants? (Photo)

Question

I have had a consultation with a reputable surgeon. He has advised me that it is highly likely I will get Ripling on any implant. Even an anatomical one. I cannot afford an implant with that transfer and unsure what to do. I’m desperate to improve my chest appearance so considering if just fat transfer is possible even if it doesn’t increase the volume that significantly, I’m just want some volume to be more womanly, please advise.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

If the implant is under the muscle the rippling will only be in the lower outer portion and likely will be minimal.  Don’t buy into the fat grafting thing. It’s absolute nonsense. Also you’re very thin. Where would the surgeon get the fat? There are plenty of surgeons who buy into the fat transfer thing. There are so many failures, complications and poor results from fat transfer, no matter who does it. Get another opinion.

Justin K. Williams, MD · Answer

It is unlikely that you have enough fat to have the same effect as an implant. I agree with your surgeon. Combining breast implants with fat grafting can improve the appearance of the breasts in someone like your self. The challenge in a patient like you would be finding enough fat to have a meaningful decrease in the visibility of rippling.

Anna Steve, MD · Answer

The right choice for you depends on your aesthetic goals. Fat transfer alone generally provides a fairly modest change in size (likely less than a cup size) but can be used to customize shape. Ripling is more common with saline implants. The highly cohesive (gummy bear style implants) are designed to limit rippling. An implant will always be more visible in thin women with less soft tissue, but thin women can still have an elegant result with a small, low profile implant. This still might be an option worth considering if a more significant size change is important to you. Another option to maximize size change with fat transfer alone would be serial fat grafting (repeat fat grafting).

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Compassionate545888,
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 implantsYou 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

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You don't appear to have much donor fat, so implants will be your best choice. If you had fat, it could help minimize the risk of ripples. I would select gel over saline.

Breast fat transfer instead of implants? (Photo)

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Breast fat transfer instead of implants? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Fat transfer

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Everything you need to know about Breast Fat Transfer

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.