Breast augmentation surgery with fat grafting is a cosmetic surgery procedure for breast enlargement. In this surgery, the patient’s own fat is removed using liposuction, and injected into the breast tissue. Dr Wyten studied this technique from Dr Emmanuel Delay in Lyon France, and then refined her skill further in Australia.
Changes for cosmetic surgery procedures – in effect from 1st July 2023
Procedure details
This operation is performed under general anaesthesia.
Dr Wyten’s technique for this surgery first involves performing liposuction, frequently on the hips, abdomen, or thighs. The fat cells are removed from the body via liposuction, purified, and prepared to be injected into the breasts. Small incisions are made in the breasts to inject the fat through, and the breasts are enlarged and shaped with the new fat cells.
This procedure typically takes approximately 2 hours to perform in the operating theatre, and an overnight stay in hospital may sometimes be required.
It is important to note that not all of the fat that is injected into the breasts will ‘take’, and a final volume of approximately 50% of the injected volume is typical. Sometimes multiple procedures are required to achieve your desired outcome.
Benefits of breast augmentation surgery with fat grafting
Breast augmentation surgery alters the size and shape of your breasts, and can offer the following benefits:
- Increased breast size, shape and projection
- Improved symmetry of breasts
- Increased cleavage and breast definition
- Restoration of breast volume loss after pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss
Using fat grafting for breast augmentation has the additional benefits of removing surplus fat from other body areas, creating a slimmer and more contoured body shape. There is the additional benefit of using a patient’s own fat, rather than a breast implant, and less scarring.
Am I a good candidate for breast augmentation surgery with fat grafting?
It is important to have realistic expectations about what can be achieved with this surgery, and to consider your natural breast size and shape, and what will suit your overall body physique. It is important to note that fat grafting requires the patient to have sufficient body fat to graft, and is therefore not suitable for everyone.
It is also important to be in good physical and mental health, and be a non-smoker to reduce your risk of complications during and after surgery. If you are considering having breast augmentation surgery, it is now an Australian requirement that you have a consultation with a General Practitioner (GP) or other specialist medical practitioner first to discuss your health, and for an appropriate referral to a surgeon.
What can I expect during recovery following breast augmentation surgery with fat grafting?
It is normal to have bruising and swelling in both the breasts and where the fat was taken from. It is important to follow the instructions given during your recovery, including when you can resume exercise. It is recommended that you maintain a stable weight for 3 months after surgery.
Post-operative hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been shown to assist with fat cell ‘take’ and some patients choose to add this adjuvant treatment within the first few weeks post surgery
It is typical to have some discomfort after breast augmentation surgery. You will be given instructions after your surgery on how to manage this in the first couple of weeks after surgery. You will also need to wear supportive undergarments and Dr Wyten’s preferred supportive post-surgical bras will be provided after your surgery. You may wish to purchase some additional post-surgical bras for your recovery.
Risks of breast augmentation surgery with fat grafting
All surgery has risks, including the risks of scarring, bleeding and blood clots (deep vein thromboses and pulmonary emboli), and infection. There are also risks associated with a general anaesthetic.
Risks specific to this surgery will be discussed with you by Dr Wyten during your consultation. Written information will also be provided for you to read before you proceed with surgery. Some risks associated with this procedure include:
- Irregular indentations in the skin where the fat is taken from, and where it’s inserted
- Damage to surrounding nerves where the fat is taken from
- Breast asymmetry
- Loss of sensation
- Cyst development on the breasts
- Fat embolism (fat entering the bloodstream)
If you experience any unusual pain, swelling or bleeding after surgery, please seek help immediately.
Choosing an experienced Specialist Plastic Surgeon, such as Dr Wyten, is the safest option when considering this type of surgery.
