What is Autologous Breast Augmentation?
Autologous breast augmentation with fat injections is becoming very popular, since patients express more and more concerns regarding silicone implants. Is fat equivalent to silicone? Definitely no. However, liposculpting of the breast has many advantages, sometimes even more than silicone implants.
Performance
In order to achieve higher volume and fat viability, hormonal therapy prior to surgery is required. This way, the breasts grow naturally and are then augmented and feminized with fat. It can be performed to even skinny patients, although having some fat deposits helps fat harvesting. Generally, the procedure is successful when at least 300cc’s of fat are injected in each breast, although sometimes more than 500cc’s per side can be achieved. In order to simplify the procedure and achieve higher survivability of the fat, we utilize the Bodyjet (Aquashape) technique, which a sophisticated fat harvesting device. Fat cells are removed with the water jet in a much gentler way, without damaging them, and then transferred to a closed filter container, where bigger chunks as well as smaller fat particles are removed, along with the fluids. The harvested fat is very clean and does not require centrifugation or other manipulation, so it is ready to inject. Injections to the breast are performed immediately after harvesting.
Procedure
Autologous fat augmentation can be very rewarding in terms of shape and overall appearance of the breast. The injections are focused on the upper pole, cleavage and footprint of the breast. According to studies with the Bodyjet technique, almost 80% of the injected fat survives and acts as our natural fat. Some patients may achieve enough fullness with one procedure, however sometimes a second session will achieve even bigger sizes, similar to breast implants.
Recovery
One of the biggest advantages of autologous breast augmentation is the minimal downtime. The procedure itself is very fast, can be performed both under general or local anesthesia as day surgery. Pain is minimal and patients can return to daily activities after 3-4 days. Exercise can begin after 3 weeks.