While breast augmentation with implants is the common method for enlarging and reshaping the breasts, more and more women are resorting to the autologous fat method. Especially natural results in appearance and feel, no foreign materials and the combination of two body-shaping procedures are the advantages of breast augmentation with autologous fat. By using autologous fat, a moderate enlargement of the breasts can be achieved. Asymmetries can be compensated and the breast can be reshaped as part of breast reconstructions. Another advantage is that the previous liposuction to obtain the autologous fat can correct problem areas and create a slimmer silhouette.
How does a breast augmentation with autologous fat work?
Breast augmentation with autologous fat consists of two procedures as part of an operation. It is usually performed either on an outpatient or inpatient basis and takes about 1-2 hours. Twilight sleep can be used under local anesthesia, but in some cases general anesthesia is also recommended. First, fat tissue is extracted from one's own body in the course of liposuction (liposuction). For this purpose, liposuction is carried out on parts of the body that have sufficient adipose tissue using the so-called tumescent method. As a rule, several parts of the body are suitable for this, such as the abdomen, thighs, buttocks or hips, as there are often sufficient fat accumulations here. In tumescent liposuction, a large amount of liquid consisting of saline, anesthetics and other active ingredients is injected into the adipose tissue. The introduced liquid dissolves and liquefies the existing fat cells, so that they can be easily sucked off in the next step with the help of fine cannulas. The fat cells obtained are cleaned, prepared and prepared for injection into the breast. In a second step, the autologous fat obtained can now be injected into the breast. Via short stitch incisions in the area of the lower breast fold, the lateral breast and / or the areola, the fat is injected into the breast with fine cannulas. Subsequently, a support bra is applied and the breast augmentation with autologous fat is completed.
What needs to be considered after a breast augmentation with autologous fat?
After the treatment, the patient must continue to wear the special support bra. It protects the tissue and supports the healing of fat cells. The bra should be worn continuously for a total of 4 weeks. Compression underwear must also be worn in the area of the body where liposuction took place to avoid unevenness and dents. Initially, the patient should be physically gentle, but is socially acceptable from the 1st postoperative day. In the months after breast augmentation, the autologous fat heals, so the final result can only be assessed about 6 – 8 weeks after the operation. It should be noted that the healing rate of fat cells varies from patient to patient and is usually around 50-70%. The results and the healing rate are very individual and not every patient is suitable for the operation. This can be discussed during a detailed consultation. After completion of recovery, the result of the operation can be assessed and, if necessary, a new autologous fat treatment can be carried out.