What is Fat Grafting?
Fat grafting, also known as fat transfer, lipofilling or lipotransfer, is a cosmetic procedure that involves removing fat from one part of the body and transferring it to another area to add volume, contour, and improve overall appearance.
During the procedure, a surgeon will use a liposuction technique to remove fat from areas such as the abdomen, thighs, or hips, and then process and purify the fat cells. These purified fat cells are then injected into the target area, such as the face, breasts, or buttocks, to create a fuller, more youthful appearance.
Fat grafting can be used for various cosmetic purposes, including filling in wrinkles and lines, adding volume to cheeks and lips, correcting asymmetry, and enhancing breast or buttock size and shape. The procedure is generally considered safe and effective, as it uses the patient’s own fat cells, minimizing the risk of allergic reactions or implant rejection.
Fat can be harvested from basically any region of the body where there is sufficient surplus.
What is a Hybrid Breast Augmentation?
Hybrid breast augmentation is a breast enhancement surgery that combines the use of breast implants with fat grafting. The procedure involves using liposuction to remove excess fat from one or more areas of the patient’s body, purifying the fat, and then injecting it into the breast tissue.
The fat grafting procedure is used to improve the overall shape and contour of the breast and to add volume to areas where the implants may not be able to provide sufficient coverage. Breast implants are also placed during the same surgical procedure, usually under the chest muscle or using the dual-plane technique, to further enhance the size and shape of the breasts.
This technique is also referred to as "composite breast augmentation" and has become increasingly attractive option in recent years, as it offers a more natural-looking result in terms of size, shape, look and feel, reduces the risks associated with breast implants alone, and may lead to longer-lasting results.
What is the recovery like after a Hybrid Breast Augmentation?
Pain in the areas from which the fat was harvested is similar to the after effects of liposuction; patients describe moderate pain that typically lasts around 48 hours. Bruising resolves within approximately two weeks and swelling within one month.
Does some of the fat disappear after grafting?
During the first three post-operative months around 30% of the added volume (fat cells) is gradually lost. Tod address this the initial injections are increased to compensate for this projected loss.
Where is the fat injected during a breast fat transfer?
During the procedure the fat injections are administered above the implant into the subcutaneous fatty layer, in order to shape and mold the appearance of the new breast.
Am I suitable for a hybrid breast augmentation?
Using fat (in addition to implants) can create stunning cleavage as well as address any existing irregularities or disproportion which could not be sufficiently addressed using implants alone.
It is important to note that not all patients may be suitable candidates for this type of surgery, and so it is important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine the best course of action for achieving your cosmetic goals.
Contact our highly experienced team of surgeons today and schedule a consultation with Dr. Kaye or Dr. Frank to discuss one of Ocean Clinic’s signature surgeries.