Breast Lipofilling

Breast lipofilling, also known as breast augmentation by autologous fat transfer, has become very popular for both aesthetic and reconstructive indications. It involves harvesting fat from the patient through traditional liposuction from the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, etc., and reinjecting it into the breasts to create volume. Other terms used for this technique include lipostructure, liposculpture, lipomodelling, and autologous fat grafting. This method also allows for body contouring through liposuction at the same time.

Breast lipofilling is suitable for patients seeking moderate breast augmentation (an increase of half to one cup size). It also helps restore shape and harmony to breasts affected by breastfeeding or weight loss. Additionally, it can be combined with breast implants to enhance the natural look and feel of the contours (composite or hybrid augmentation) or to improve the appearance of the décolletage.

In reconstructive surgery, this technique can restore breast volume lost during tumor removal (lumpectomy).

The best candidates for fat transfer are patients who will truly benefit from both the removal of fat through liposuction and the reinjection of fat into the breasts, as part of an overall body contouring project. Therefore, patients with localized fat excess are excellent candidates, as lipofilling allows for the treatment of both excess and deficient volume areas in a single procedure.

Patients with deflated breasts post-pregnancy are also very good candidates for breast lipofilling. Indeed, the skin of the breasts, which has already been stretched by breastfeeding, allows for the injection of a larger amount of fat compared to a young patient with very firm skin and a dense gland.

Finally, patients with implants who are reaching an advanced age and no longer wish to have new prostheses are often ideal candidates for autologous fat transfer

Breast lipofilling allows for an increase of half to one cup size in a single session. If a larger augmentation is desired, the technique can be repeated or combined with a silicone implant.

To perform a fat transfer, the patient must have a significant fat reserve. On average, 200 ml to 350 ml of fat are injected per side in one session.
Fat transfer increases the existing breast volume; however, it has less capacity to change the shape of the breast compared to an implant or a breast lift. Therefore, it results in a very natural breast augmentation without significant shape changes.

Fat cells are living cells that require a suitable environment to survive. This is why the survival of these cells is variable and depends on a number of factors. Among the most important are smoking, a history of radiotherapy and the presence of scar tissue in the breast, all of which reduce fat preservation. Post-operatively, tissue pressure, compression of the injected area and inadequate nutrient intake (too strict a diet) can in turn reduce survival rates.

Under the best conditions, studies show a fat survival rate of around 60-80%. Fat volume tends to stabilize and become permanent after 2-3 months.
Weight fluctuations have an impact on fat cell volume, as is the case in all parts of the body. This is why we recommend maintaining a relatively stable weight after such an operation.

Lipomodelling breast augmentation is usually preceded by at least two consultations with the surgeon. These appointments are used to prescribe pre-operative examinations (mammography, ultrasound, blood tests), and to study your medical history and state of health to ensure the safety of the procedure. Your needs will be precisely analyzed by your practitioner to establish a care plan that meets your expectations. You will be given all the information concerning your operation, together with a detailed estimate.

Lipofilling is usually performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. You arrive on the morning of the operation and leave the same day when you have recovered from the anaesthetic. The surgeon begins by performing liposuction to remove fatty tissue. The fat collected is purified by rinsing and decanting. The fat thus obtained is reinjected into the breasts.

Post-operative recovery from breast lipofilling is straightforward and painless. Edema and bruising are common. These are not serious and resolve spontaneously. No dressing is required, and showering is possible the very next day. You will need to take 5 to 10 days off work. The liposuctioned area requires elastic support for 4-8 weeks.

As far as breast volume is concerned, it appears significant in the first two weeks, due to oedema and haematomas. After resorption, volume will continue to decrease more slowly, stabilizing after 2 to 3 months.

Wearing a compression garment over the liposuction area is recommended night and day for 4 to 8 weeks after breast liposculpture. The first two weeks should be free of heavy compression, and smoking should be strictly avoided. It influences fat resorption and can alter results. Sports activities are not recommended for 1 month.

The results of lipomodelling breast augmentation vary according to the rate of resorption. Once stabilized, they are definitive, although breast size may fluctuate with the patient’s weight. Breast lipofilling provides a natural, soft-textured breast without scarring.

The overall harmony of the body’s silhouette and curves is enhanced by breast augmentation combined with liposuction of excess fat. These aesthetic benefits are accompanied by positive effects on well-being and self-confidence.

The cost of breast augmentation by lipofilling varies according to the complexity and number of liposuctioned areas. They start at CHF 7,000. A personalized estimate will be provided during your initial consultation.