Fat transfer to the breast is a cosmetic procedure that uses a person’s own body fat to enhance breast size and shape. This technique involves removing fat cells from one area of the body through liposuction and then injecting these purified cells into the breasts. Many people consider this a natural approach to breast augmentation, avoiding the use of artificial implants. A common question among those considering this procedure is the specific amount of fat needed to achieve their desired outcome.
Typical Fat Volumes Transferred
The volume of fat transferred per breast for augmentation ranges from 100 to 400 milliliters (or cc’s). The exact amount varies significantly per person. A single fat transfer procedure results in a modest increase in breast size, often about one cup size. While some cases may achieve a two-cup size increase, this is less common and depends on various factors.
The goal is to achieve a natural-looking enhancement without overfilling the breasts, which can compromise fat survival. Surgeons aim to distribute the fat evenly to create a smooth contour and avoid lumps. The initial volume injected is often higher than the anticipated final volume, accounting for some reabsorption by the body.
Factors Influencing Required Fat Volume
Several elements influence the specific amount of fat required for an individual’s fat transfer to the breast. A patient’s desired increase in breast size is a primary consideration, with larger desired changes necessitating more transferred fat. The existing breast tissue and shape also play a role, as individuals with more natural breast tissue may require less fat to achieve their goals.
A surgeon’s technique and experience significantly affect the outcome, as skilled practitioners can optimize fat harvesting, purification, and injection to maximize survival. The patient’s overall body frame and the availability of suitable donor fat are also important. Sufficient fat must be present in donor areas for harvesting.
Understanding Fat Survival
Fat graft survival refers to the percentage of transferred fat cells that establish a new blood supply and integrate into the breast tissue. Not all injected fat cells will survive the transfer process; a portion will be reabsorbed by the body. Fat survival rates fall within the range of 50% to 80%.
This reabsorption means that a larger initial volume of fat must be transferred than the desired final outcome. For example, if a patient aims for a 100 ml increase, a surgeon might inject 150-200 ml to account for the expected loss. Factors influencing fat survival include the gentle handling of fat cells during harvesting and purification, as well as the precise injection technique used to ensure even distribution and proximity to existing blood vessels. Patient health, including lifestyle factors, can also impact how well the fat grafts integrate and survive long-term.
Donor Areas for Fat Harvesting
Fat for breast transfer is harvested from areas of the body with excess adipose tissue. Common donor sites include the abdomen, flanks (love handles), inner thighs, outer thighs, and buttocks. Other potential areas may include the back or upper arms.
The selection of donor areas depends on the individual’s body composition and the amount of fat available for harvesting. This process not only provides the material for breast augmentation but also offers the benefit of contouring the donor areas.