Should I get breast implants? Or another fat transfer? (Photo)

Question

Underwent Fat transfer, October 2022, due to breast asymmetry. Fat taken from flanks and stomach. I'm 5ft 5 inches and 120lbs. Looked great at 6 week review, now I'm back to where I started. Surgeon has suggested another FT. I want implants, he takes a lot out due to Breast implant illness and be warned me about this. He said he would want to do another fat transfer first. I feel like it's a waste of time! Picture attached And advice much appreciated!

Joe Gryskiewicz, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,
Fat transfers are very unlikely to be a one and done type of surgery. The fat may metabolize over time. If you want a permanent result, I'd suggest breast implants. Otherwise if you do another fat transfer you may run into this issue again. Patients with BII may have underlying health issues.  
All the best,
Dr. Joe

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear AR1808,
fat transfer can achieve some increase in size. however, if you want a significant increase (more than one bra cup size), then implants are a better option. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Breast implants are a reliable way to enhance the breasts with a predictable outcome.  Fat transfer can be sometimes problematic when the fat doesn't take or takes unevenly.  There can also be issues with transferred fat when mammograms are read.  I encourage you to do your research and visit with a few board certified plastic surgeons to hear varying opinions.

Hampton A. Howell, MD · Answer

Hi.  Based on your photograph I would expect you do not have a whole lot of fat to use to harvest for the fat transfers, and thus it is doubtful that you would see much improvement with another round of fat transfers.  It is obviously variable in terms of how much of the fat stays and how much of it goes.  But if you want breast implants then find a board certified plastic surgeon with good experience with breast implants and move forward in that direction.  
Good luck and take care, 
Dr. Howell

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

You have just discovered the truth about fat transfer. It’s a hit or miss procedure at best. If you get it again the same thing will probably happen. Breast implant illness is rare if it even exists. Get another opinion.

Should I get breast implants? Or another fat transfer? (Photo)

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Should I get breast implants? Or another fat transfer? (Photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: Should I get breast implants? Or another fat transfer?

Answer: Should I get breast implants? Or another fat transfer?

Answer: Fat transfer

Answer: Fat transfer

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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