Many women want to increase the size of their breasts, but without the need for the serious surgery that comes with implants. In recent years, interest in non-surgical breast enlargement has increased, with the most popular method being fat transfer breast augmentation.
What is fat transfer breast augmentation?
Fat transfer breast augmentation is essentially a 2-in-1 procedure, where fat is removed from one area of the body and injected into the breasts. This results in both the breasts becoming larger and the area of the body where the fat has been taken from becoming slimmer. Because of this, it seems like a dream procedure for many women, and also has other benefits over implants such as shorter recovery times. However, like any procedure, it also has its disadvantages, and should be still be considered carefully.
What happens during the procedure?
During a fat transfer boob job, minimally invasive liposuction is used to take pockets of fat from the agreed area of the patient’s body. The most common areas for fat to be taken from are the thighs, stomach or buttocks. The fat is then refined and injected underneath and around the breasts in layers. This is all done under local anaesthetic using a needle, making it a less invasive and risky procedure than full surgery.
The procedure typically takes around 3 hours.
Advantages of Fat Transfer Breast Enlargement
- As mentioned, this option is less invasive than traditional breast augmentation surgery involving implants.
- It is also a more natural alternative, as the materials used are coming from the patient’s own body, as opposed to the saline or silicone of implants.
- Recovery time is also shorter for fat transfer boob jobs, as the surgery is not as serious. Swelling and bruising should only last for a couple of weeks.
- As the procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic, there is also usually no need for an overnight stay in the hospital.
- Results are arguably softer and more natural looking than implants.
- The procedure is especially great for correcting issues such as uneven breasts.
- Patients can slim other areas of their body while also increasing their breast size, thus improving two problematic areas at a time.
Disadvantages of Fat Transfer Breast Enlargement
- Results of non-surgical breast augmentation are more subtle than implants, so it is not ideal for those looking to drastically increase the size of their breasts. Fat transfer will usually only increase size by one or two cup sizes
- Not everyone is eligible for the procedure, as it involves having a lot of body fat to begin with. Many patients are too slim for this option.
- The fat is reabsorbed into the body eventually, meaning breast size will decrease again and top-ups may be required.
- Some people have reported the fat hardening, creating harmless but unsightly lumps in the breasts.
How much does fat transfer breast augmentation cost?
In the UK, a fat transfer boob job can cost anywhere between £3000-£7000. It’s therefore no cheaper than implants – however it’s worth remembering that you are getting the extra benefit of liposuction on another area of your body, so you are having two procedures in one.
For many people, non-surgical breast implants are the preferable option. They have became especially popular following things such as the PIP breast implants scandal, as people prefer the idea of using natural materials from their own bodies. However, results may not be as dramatic as some would expect or like, meaning traditional implants may still be the better choice for many women. Also, it is important to remember that many women are simply not eligible for the procedure due to low levels of body fat.
As with all cosmetic enhancements, fat transfer breast augmentation should be carefully considered, and discussed with a reputable and experienced cosmetic surgeon.