When compared to recovery after a breast augmentation with implants, breast augmentation fat transfer recovery is both shorter and easier. Although swelling, bruising, and changes in breast sensation are common side effects, most patients are able to return to many of their normal daily activities within a week.
Of course, it may take longer to return to exercise or a physically demanding job. And typically, up to six months must pass before you are able to see your full results from the procedure.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at breast augmentation with fat transfer recovery. But first, what is a fat transfer breast augmentation?
What Is a Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation?
With any type of fat transfer procedure (Brazilian butt lift surgery, fat transfer to the face, etc.), unwanted fat is removed from somewhere on the patient’s body with liposuction, processed, then returned to the body in the desired location. In the case of a Brazilian butt lift (BBL), fat cells are transferred to the buttocks and hips. With a breast fat transfer procedure, fat cells go to the breast tissue.
How Does a Breast Augmentation Differ From a Breast Lift?
This is a very common question, so it’s good to address before we go further.
Any type of breast augmentation plastic surgery (including fat transfer procedures and breast implant procedures) involves adding volume to the breasts to make them appear larger. More rarely, augmentation procedures may be used to slightly alter the breast shape (add volume to the upper poles only, for example) or to even out asymmetrical breasts. It is a common procedure for patients who require breast reconstruction after a lumpectomy or mastectomy.
Breast lift procedures, on the other hand, are meant to change the shape of the breasts by lifting them. Those who are good candidates for breast lift procedures want their breasts to appear more youthful. So, surgeons remove excess skin and tissue to get rid of drooping and reposition the breasts higher on the chest wall.
In some cases, a breast augmentation may be combined with a breast lift.
Now, let’s get back to discussing recovery after fat grafting to the breasts.
Your Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation Recovery Time: An Overview of What to Expect
After a fat transfer breast augmentation recovery generally begins with some swelling, bruising, and slight discomfort. You will most likely be put into a compression garment right after surgery. Compression garments must be worn consistently as directed by your surgeon.
Slight discharge and light bleeding from incision sites is not uncommon. Any heavy bleeding, severe pain (especially one-sided pain), or other troubling symptoms should be reported to your surgeon as soon as possible. Although this procedure is generally regarded as safe and typically complication-free, there are still fat transfer breast augmentation risks to be aware of.
Your initial recovery time should be largely made up rest and relaxation. Although we do encourage you to take easy walks for just a few minutes at a time to support good circulation and avoid blood clots, do not engage in regular exercise or other physically demanding activities for at least two to three weeks.
Typically, light exercise can be resumed after three to four weeks, and patients can transition to more moderate exercise and then to their regular routines thereafter. Always consult with your plastic surgeon in regards to resuming any type of activity after complete healing.
Finally, while you recover, be sure to take any pain medications as directed, sleep according to your surgeon’s instructions, and eat a healthy diet. Avoid alcohol, and drink plenty of water for proper hydration and to minimize fluid buildup.
Is Recovery After Fat Transfer Breast Surgery Painful?
When it comes to pain in recovery fat transfer breast augmentation is typically less painful than breast implant surgery. Furthermore, most of the patient’s pain will be related to the liposuction portion of surgery.
This is because when we remove fat cells, small incisions are required, and the surrounding tissue and blood vessels can become agitated.
The injection of grafted fat tissue to the breasts does not result in too much discomfort. However, you may have some swelling, discharge, and bruising on the breasts. Your breast size will also increase and change over time due to the addition and adjustment of the added fat.
FAQ: Breast Augmentation Fat Transfer Surgery
Will I have scars after fat transfer breast augmentation?
Fat transfer breast augmentation scars usually result from the liposuction part of surgery. Liposuction requires tiny incisions to fit the suction cannula.
How much is a breast fat transfer procedure?
Your breast augmentation fat transfer cost will be unique to you and your circumstances (and the surgeon you choose). Request a consultation to receive accurate pricing for your procedure.
Is breast fat transfer worth it?
Patients who have considered breast implants but really only desire a modest breast size increase can be great candidates for a breast fat transfer.
Breast fat transfer procedures typically come with a shorter recovery time and a lower cost overall. Plus, patients like that fat grafting offers a natural alternative to implants. Fat grafting does not require regular MRIs to check for leaks or ruptures as breast implants do.
Contact Us Today to Schedule a Consultation
The fat transfer breast augmentation procedure is not right for everyone. But if you’re a good candidate, it can be an outstanding surgery for improving the appearance of your breasts and improving your overall mood and self-esteem.
Contact us today to schedule a breast fat transfer consultation appointment with female board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Smita Ramanadham.
References
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24033-fat-transfer-breast-augmentation