Breast Procedures

Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation Sydney

Researching the plastic surgeons in Sydney can be a timely process before women choose to undergo breast surgery. Dr Tavakoli and his team provide support throughout the surgical journey. Whatever your reasons are for considering breast surgery in Sydney, Dr. Tavakoli works with you to understand your desires and expectations.

We Proudly Utilise

Silicon Implants

Have A Question?

Then why not book a free consultation with one of our friendly female staff?

Sidebar Form

DR TAVAKOLI’S PRINCIPLES IN FAT GRAFTING IN BREAST AND RECONSTRUCTION

Fat Grafting (Lipofilling) technique has been around since the 1980s but has become far more advanced in recent times. In women with a small amount of breast tissue and body fat, breast implants can become palpable at the edges and in some cases the implant edge can become visible in the cleavage area and lower pole of the breasts. In these cases, breast fat grafting is mostly used by Dr Tavakoli to treat women with small cleavages. It can also be used to avoid implant rippling and implant visibility; as such, it is a common procedure.

Dr Tavakoli also uses fat grafting in a second category of women who are not suitable candidates for breast implants. In this instance, the breast shape is altered with a combination of mastopexy and/or breast reduction mammoplasty followed by lipofilling to the upper pole of the breast. It is important to note that in these cases, lipo-augmentation should be understood as altering the shape of the breast rather than increasing the size.

Dr Tavakoli also uses fat grafting in a second category of women who are not suitable candidates for breast implants. In this instance, the breast shape is altered with a combination of mastopexy and/or breast reduction mammoplasty followed by lipofilling to the upper pole of the breast. This creates upper pole fullness, avoiding the need for a breast implant. *It is important to note that in these cases, lipo-augmentation should be understood as altering the shape of the breast rather than increasing the size.

Breast Augmentation

Before & After Gallery

View Our Before & After Gallery

INDICATIONS

  1. Fat grafting is used to correct slight breast asymmetry during breast augmentation mammoplasty with implants. This is usually preferred to the use of different size implants where possible, as the fat can be targeted and injected into the breast areas of uneven tissue thickness.
  2. Camouflage technique to cover up bony prominences over the sternum and pronounced ribs.
  3. Camouflage technique to provide coverage over rippling and wrinkling breast implants in thin patients with low upper body fat.
  4. Tuberous correction almost invariably utilises the fat grafting technique to bring symmetry and lower pole curvature.
  5. Create upper pole fullness in mastopexy/reduction mammoplasty patients who wish to avoid an implant.

Lipoaugmentation During Mastopexy/Reduction Mammoplasty

Technique: The fat is removed from the patient’s abdomen or thighs using liposuction. The harvested fat is cleaned and processed through closed system and re-injected into the upper pole of the breast to alter the shape and create upper pole fullness without the use of an implant.

Post-op Care: The area of liposuction is generally tender for up to 3 weeks. The fat grafted area is swollen and little tender and may get bruised.

Result: Up to 70% of the fat injected will “take” and gets incorporated into the body. This figure is much lower in smokers. The fat that is not incorporated is safely excreted by the kidneys with no harm.

Fat Transfer Cases Studies

Disclaimer: The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.

Breast reduction mammoplasty with fat grafting to upper pole. Total fat graft: 50mls (L) 30mls (R)

Breast reduction mammoplasty with fat graft to upper pole. Total fat: 125mls (L) 125mls (R)

Fat Grafting During Breast Augmentation Mammoplasty

Fat grafting during breast augmentation mammoplasty is a technique often utilised by Dr Tavakoli to address a small chest, provide implant coverage, address asymmetry, or to create shape and fullness in the lower pole of the breast in tuberous patients. In some cases, Dr Tavakoli is able to address tuberous breasts with the use of a breast implant and fat grafting alone.

Technique: The fat is removed from the patient’s abdomen, inner or outer thigh regions using very fine liposuction cannulas. The fat then gets prepared meticulously on a side table during surgery. The fat is loaded into 10ml syringes for injection into area of hollowness or rippling or asymmetry; the fat provides coverage to the concerned area and disguises rippling and implant visibility. This procedure can be done during breast augmentation mammoplasty or at a later date.

Post-op Care: The area of liposuction is generally tender for up to 3 weeks. The fat grafted area is swollen and a little tender and may get bruised.

Understanding Hybrid Breast Augmentation

Hybrid breast augmentation is an advanced surgical technique that blends breast implants with fat grafting to create a more natural and refined appearance. This procedure allows Dr Tavakoli to smooth out implant edges, correct asymmetry, and enhance cleavage or upper pole fullness in a way that implants alone may not achieve. By incorporating breast fat transfer in Australia, patients can benefit from dual contouring effects, where unwanted fat is removed from one area and used to enhance the breasts. The result is a balanced and proportionate breast augmentation that aligns with the patient’s natural body shape and aesthetic goals.

A primary advantage of fat transfer breast augmentation in Sydney is that it provides a softer and more organic feel compared to implants alone. The transferred fat integrates with the existing breast tissue, allowing for a more seamless and subtle enhancement. Additionally, because breast fat transfer involves the patient’s own tissue, there is a lower risk of allergic reactions or rejection compared to traditional implants. Patients should, however, be aware that fat grafting alone may not provide the same dramatic volume increase as implants and is best suited for those seeking modest enhancements.

What is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to enhance breast size, shape, and proportion. Traditionally, this has been achieved through silicone or saline implants, which provide predictable volume increases. More recently, fat transfer breast augmentation has gained popularity as an alternative approach, particularly for those looking for natural enhancements without synthetic materials. Some individuals may choose a hybrid approach, which combines both implants and fat transfer to optimise their results.

Unlike implants, breast fat transfer utilises liposuction to harvest fat, which is then purified and injected into the breasts. This technique allows for subtle contouring, helping to smooth irregularities and achieve a more natural texture. However, it is important to understand that fat retention varies, and some of the transferred fat may be absorbed by the body over time. For patients seeking significant volume increases, implants remain the most reliable method, but fat transfer breast augmentation in Australia can provide an excellent complement for achieving optimal shape and symmetry.

Determining Candidacy for Breast Fat Transfer

Not every patient is a suitable candidate for breast fat transfer in Sydney, as this procedure depends on several individual factors. Sufficient fat reserves, good skin elasticity, and realistic expectations are all crucial considerations when determining whether fat transfer breast augmentation is the right choice. Patients who are very thin may not have enough fat available for transfer, making them better suited for implant-based augmentation. Additionally, those looking for a dramatic increase in breast size may find that breast fat transfer alone does not provide the desired level of enhancement.

Another important factor in fat transfer breast augmentation in Australia is the patient’s overall health and lifestyle habits. Individuals who smoke, have certain medical conditions, or experience frequent weight fluctuations may be at a higher risk for fat absorption issues. Maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle is essential for maximising the longevity of fat transfer results.

Assessing Suitability for the Procedure

  • Adequate fat reserves are essential for a successful transfer. Fat is typically harvested from areas such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks, and patients with minimal body fat may not have enough available tissue for transfer. A consultation with Dr Tavakoli will help assess whether the patient has sufficient donor fat for the procedure.
  • This procedure is ideal for those seeking moderate volume enhancement. Unlike implants, which can provide dramatic changes, fat transfer is best for individuals who prefer subtle, natural-looking augmentation. Patients with very little existing breast tissue may still require implants for optimal fullness.
  • Overall health plays a critical role in determining candidacy. Medical conditions such as diabetes, clotting disorders, or autoimmune diseases may increase surgical risks and impact healing. It is important for patients to disclose their full medical history to their surgeon before considering breast fat transfer.
  • Patients must have realistic expectations regarding the outcome. Some transferred fat cells will not survive, meaning the final results may take months to stabilise. In some cases, multiple fat transfer sessions may be necessary to achieve the desired breast volume and shape.

The Consultation Process

  • A consultation provides a comprehensive evaluation of options. During this appointment, Dr Tavakoli will discuss the patient’s goals, assess fat availability, and determine whether fat transfer breast augmentation is the most appropriate choice. Patients will also receive a detailed explanation of the procedure, recovery, and potential risks.
  • The physical examination determines the feasibility of fat transfer. Dr Tavakoli will evaluate donor fat areas, skin elasticity, and existing breast tissue to assess whether the procedure will yield desirable results. If insufficient fat is available, alternative augmentation methods may be recommended.
  • Potential risks and complications are openly discussed. Every surgical procedure carries risks, and patients must understand the possibility of fat necrosis, asymmetry, or volume loss over time. These discussions help patients set realistic expectations and make an informed decision.
  • Patients receive detailed pre-and post-surgical care instructions. Proper preparation and post-operative care are essential for optimising results and minimising complications. Understanding these guidelines will help patients achieve the best possible outcome from their breast fat transfer surgery.

The Hybrid Breast Augmentation Procedure

Hybrid breast augmentation involves two primary components: liposuction to harvest fat from donor areas and precise fat injection into the breasts to enhance shape and symmetry. Some patients also receive breast implants as part of this procedure to provide additional structure and volume. The success of fat transfer breast augmentation in Sydney depends on several factors, including the quality of the harvested fat, the purification process, and the precision of the injection technique.

Preparation Before Surgery

  • Patients are advised to maintain a stable weight leading up to surgery. Significant fluctuations in weight can impact fat availability and survival rates post-transfer. Maintaining a consistent body weight ensures that the fat harvested for transfer is of optimal quality.
  • Smoking and alcohol consumption should be avoided several weeks before surgery. Nicotine and alcohol can impair circulation and healing, reducing the chances of successful fat graft survival. Patients should follow Dr Tavakoli’s recommendations on when to discontinue these habits before surgery.
  • Certain medications and supplements may need to be temporarily stopped. Blood-thinning medications, anti-inflammatory drugs, and some herbal supplements can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising. Patients should consult Dr Tavakoli regarding which medications should be paused before the procedure.
  • Hydration and nutrition play a crucial role in surgical preparation. Eating a nutrient-rich diet and staying well-hydrated before surgery supports optimal healing and recovery. A balanced intake of vitamins and minerals is essential for post-operative cell regeneration.

Surgical Techniques and Fat Transfer

The hybrid breast augmentation procedure consists of two distinct steps—fat extraction and fat transfer—each requiring careful precision to achieve natural-looking results.

1. Liposuction for Fat Harvesting

  • Fat is removed from areas with sufficient donor volume, such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks.
  • A specialised liposuction technique is used to gently extract fat cells while preserving their viability.
  • The harvested fat undergoes purification to remove impurities and damaged fat cells, ensuring only healthy fat cells are used for transfer.

2. Fat Injection into the Breasts

  • The purified fat is strategically injected into the breasts to enhance volume, symmetry, and contour.
  • The surgeon carefully distributes fat in multiple layers, ensuring a smooth transition between the natural breast tissue and added volume.
  • Since not all fat cells survive, surgeons may slightly overfill the area to compensate for expected resorption.

Recovery and Post-Operative Care

Recovery from fat transfer breast augmentation in Sydney varies depending on the extent of fat transfer, individual healing capacity, and adherence to post-operative care guidelines. Most patients experience temporary swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which gradually subside over time. Following Dr Tavakoli’s aftercare instructions will help maximise results and ensure a smooth recovery process.

Potential Risks and Considerations

As with any surgical procedure, breast fat transfer in Australia carries potential risks and considerations. While the procedure is generally safe, it is important for patients to understand that outcomes can vary based on individual factors. Consulting with Dr Tavakoli can help minimise risks and ensure that patients have realistic expectations about their results.

Understanding Possible Complications

  • Fat resorption can reduce final breast volume. The body naturally absorbs some of the transferred fat, leading to a slight reduction in size over time. This is why surgeons overfill the breast area slightly during the procedure.
  • Fat necrosis can cause lumps or firmness in the breast tissue. In some cases, small areas of fat may harden, leading to palpable nodules. These are typically harmless but may require monitoring to ensure they do not cause discomfort.
  • Asymmetry may occur if fat is absorbed unevenly. While surgeons take great care to ensure even fat distribution, minor differences in how fat is retained can result in slight asymmetry. In such cases, a secondary fat transfer session may be considered.
  • Infection, bruising, or prolonged swelling are possible side effects. Following strict hygiene protocols and post-operative care will help minimise the risk of complications. Patients should report any unusual pain, redness, or signs of infection to their surgeon immediately.

Long-Term Considerations

  • Weight fluctuations can affect breast size and shape. Since transferred fat behaves like normal body fat, weight gain or loss can alter breast volume. Maintaining a consistent weight will help preserve results.
  • Fat transfer results may require additional touch-ups. Some patients opt for secondary fat transfer sessions to achieve their desired fullness. Regular follow-ups allow surgeons to assess results and recommend refinements if necessary.
  • Breast screenings should be continued as normal. Fat grafting can sometimes cause benign calcifications, which may appear on mammograms. Patients should inform their radiologists about their fat transfer procedure for accurate interpretation of imaging results.
  • Long-term satisfaction depends on realistic expectations. Hybrid breast augmentation provides a natural enhancement, but it is not intended for those seeking dramatic size increases. Patients should discuss their long-term aesthetic goals with their surgeon before proceeding.

Book a Consultation Today

For more details about the procedure, potential risks, and recovery process, schedule an appointment with Dr Tavakoli. Taking the time to gather accurate information and consult with a qualified professional will ensure that patients make an informed decision about their aesthetic journey.

Schedule A
Consultation

Schedule A Consultation

Are Your Ready to Take The Next Step?

Contact Form
Dr Tavakoli requires video for accurate assessment for all BREAST procedures. Upload Max 6MB. View video instructions here