Breast Augmentation with Autologous Fat
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Breast augmentation with autologous fat, also known as breast lipofilling, is suitable for women who desire a subtle, natural-looking increase in breast volume – without implants and without foreign material.
At a glance
- Treatment: Breast augmentation with autologous fat (lipofilling)
- Treatment goal: Natural volume
- Breast augmentation: ½ to 1 cup size per session, repeatable as needed
- Duration / Anaesthesia: Approx. 2 hours, general anaesthesia
- Hospital stay: 1–2 days, socially presentable after a few days
- Aftercare: Compression garment approx. 6 weeks, light breast wrapping approx. 1 week, no sport for approx. 4 weeks
- Prerequisite: Sufficient fat reserves (e.g. abdomen, hips, thighs)
How does fat transfer breast augmentation work?
First, the required fatty tissue is harvested by liposuction from the abdomen, hips or thighs. The harvested fat is specially processed, purified and then injected in fine layers into the breast.
Some of the transplanted fat cells integrate permanently. Others are reabsorbed over the first few weeks. The final result is assessed after several months.
How much volume is achievable?
An increase of approximately half to one cup size per session is possible – a moderate augmentation. If significantly more volume is desired, implants of various sizes may be the better option.
However, the treatment can be repeated. Step by step, we can achieve greater volume while always taking individual skin quality and fat reserves into account.
Not every desired size is sensible or anatomically realistic.
Advantages over implants
Fat transfer breast augmentation eliminates risks such as:
- Capsular contracture
- Implant displacement
- Visible implant edges
- Long-term issues with foreign material
Because fat is harvested from specific body areas, simultaneous body contouring is possible.
Combination of implant and autologous fat
In some cases we use autologous fat in addition to implants.
Expected outcomes:
- Softer transitions at the décolletage
- Concealing visible implant edges
- Improving skin quality
- Harmonising breast shape after implant exchange or removal
This method is suitable for:
- Patients wishing a subtle breast augmentation
- Volume loss after pregnancy
- After implant removal
- Reconstruction after breast surgery
Important prerequisite: there must be sufficient fatty tissue available. For very slim patients the treatment may not be suitable.
Combination with additional treatments
If required, skin quality and tissue structure can be improved through radiofrequency, Morpheus 8, PRP and PRF (autologous blood treatment) or microneedling.
Procedure
Duration: approx. 2 hours | Anaesthesia: general anaesthesia | Hospital stay: 1–2 days
Aftercare:
- Compression garment at the liposuction sites for approx. 6 weeks
- Light breast wrapping for approx. one week
- No physical exertion for 4 weeks
- No sun exposure on the scars for 6 months
Suture removal: after 14 days
Socially presentable: approx. 3–4 days after the procedure
Natural results as the treatment goal
Fat transfer breast augmentation is an option when a very natural and subtle change is desired. Before-and-after images can be helpful during the consultation, but individual prerequisites are always decisive for the outcome. Book your consultation appointment with artethic® Dr. Karl Schuhmann & Colleagues in Düsseldorf.
What should you consider before fat transfer breast augmentation in Düsseldorf or Berlin?
There are several important aspects to consider before fat transfer breast augmentation in Düsseldorf or Berlin to ensure a safe and successful procedure.
- Choosing an experienced surgeon: Select a plastic surgeon with expertise in fat transfer breast augmentation. Check qualifications and experience, and review before-and-after images of previous patients.
- Individual consultation: Schedule a detailed consultation to discuss your wishes, expectations and medical prerequisites. The surgeon will explain the procedure and present realistic outcomes.
- Health check: Have your general health assessed before the procedure. The surgeon may recommend medical tests to confirm your suitability.
- No smoking or alcohol: Refrain from smoking and reduce alcohol consumption in the weeks before the operation to minimise the risk of complications.
- Medication: Stop taking blood-thinning medications such as aspirin two weeks before the operation to reduce the risk of post-operative bleeding.
- Aftercare plan: Discuss an individual aftercare plan with your surgeon, including regular check-ups and steps to promote smooth recovery.
What to keep in mind after fat transfer breast surgery
After autologous fat breast surgery, several important steps will help ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results.
- Hospital stay and aftercare: A short hospital stay is standard practice to monitor the post-operative progress. Follow your surgeon's instructions for follow-up appointments.
- Compression garments: Wearing the recommended compression garments is essential for the healing process. They support breast shaping, minimise swelling and promote fat cell integration.
- Rest and no sport: Avoid intensive physical activity and sport in the first weeks after surgery.
- No nicotine or alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can impair healing.
- Pain management: Take prescribed pain medication as directed and contact your surgeon if you have questions.
- Patience: The healing process can take several weeks. Follow your surgeon's instructions to achieve long-term, optimal results.
artethic® Dr. Karl Schuhmann & Colleagues in Düsseldorf
All treatments at artethic® Dr. Karl Schuhmann & Colleagues are performed by specialist physicians in plastic and aesthetic surgery. Dr. med. Tim Lobe, Dr. med. Natalie Abou Dayé and Dr. med. Karl Schuhmann have extensive surgical experience in facial and breast surgery as well as regenerative procedures such as fat grafting.
A particular focus of the practice is the combination of aesthetic surgery with modern biostimulatory methods. Individual treatments and sustainable, natural results are at the heart of everything we do.
Treatment methods
Which breast augmentation methods do we offer you in Düsseldorf and Berlin?
At our practices in Düsseldorf and Berlin, we offer you various breast augmentation methods to meet your individual needs. A popular option is breast augmentation with autologous fat, also known as lipofilling. In this gentle procedure, the patient's own fatty tissue is harvested through targeted liposuction and, after specialist preparation, introduced into the breast. This method not only enables natural breast augmentation but also allows the breast shape to be individually tailored to your personal wishes.
Frequently asked questions
Will fat transfer breast augmentation leave visible scars?
Only small puncture sites are required for fat harvesting and injection. These are generally inconspicuous and tend to fade well. Since only autologous fat is used, there is no risk of rejection reactions as with implants. However, this is a surgical procedure with general risks such as swelling, bruising or infection, which we discuss comprehensively during the pre-operative consultation.
How much does fat transfer breast augmentation cost?
The cost of fat transfer breast augmentation varies depending on several factors: the method and scope of treatment, hospital stay, surgeon's fee, pre-operative medical examinations, compression garments and medications, and follow-up appointments. During the consultation your surgeon will create a personalised treatment plan including a detailed cost breakdown.
When can I return to work after fat transfer breast augmentation?
Most patients can resume their normal activities within 1–2 weeks of surgery. However, avoid excessive arm movements. It is advisable to clarify in advance what your job involves and when it is safe to return to work.
How long must I avoid sport after fat transfer breast augmentation?
You should refrain from sport for two months after fat transfer breast augmentation to ensure the transplanted fat cells can integrate successfully.
Why should I avoid a special bra or breast band after fat transfer breast surgery?
After fat transfer breast surgery, the breast should only be lightly wrapped with a bandage. The transplanted fat cells are very sensitive and must not be compressed or squeezed. Tight bras or close-fitting clothing should therefore be avoided.
How long must I wear a compression garment after fat transfer breast augmentation?
A compression garment should be worn at the liposuction sites for 6 weeks to support wound healing and prevent the cavities created by liposuction from filling with tissue fluid, blood or dissolved fat, which could cause nodules or scarring.
What aftercare is required for the liposuction involved in fat transfer breast surgery?
Rest and careful behaviour are the best aftercare for both the liposuction and the breast augmentation. This allows the body sufficient time to recover and enables the transplanted fat cells to integrate optimally.
How long do the results of fat transfer breast augmentation last?
The results of fat transfer breast augmentation are permanent, as the fat cells grow into the breast tissue. In the initial period, between 20 and 40 percent of the fat may be reabsorbed by the body. If the result is no longer satisfactory, the treatment can be repeated when sufficient fat deposits are available.
How can I finance my fat transfer breast augmentation?
If you would like the procedure but the funds are not immediately available, this is no obstacle. We work with two specialist partners who finance medical treatments and can help you achieve your desired change. Full details about financing your cosmetic surgery are available in our service area.
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