How Do I Choose Between Fat Transfer And Breast Implants?

There are many exciting things to think about when considering breast augmentation, including your new and improved look, the different styles of clothes you will be able to wear, and the boost in self-confidence that will likely occur. However, there are also decisions that need to be made, and the wide range of surgical options can be overwhelming. The caring and knowledgeable team at J. Timothy Katzen, M.D. Beverly Hills understands the sensitive and sometimes complicated nature of deciding to undergo breast augmentation and is here to help guide you through the entire process.

What size and type of breast implants should I choose?

One of the first choices in breast augmentation is choosing an ideal breast size. This can be a tricky question to answer, but an experienced surgeon can advise you on what degree of augmentation may help you achieve your goals, look appropriate on your frame, and fit your lifestyle.

Most patients then begin to explore the different kinds of implants. Saline and silicone gel are the two most commonly used breast implants today. Both are FDA-approved for use in breast augmentation and offer a number of benefits based on a woman’s anatomy and overall goals.

What are the differences between saline and silicone breast implants?

While they are both considered safe and effective for breast augmentation, silicone and saline implants each have a unique set of features. Silicone gel implants are less prone to rippling than saline implants. This makes silicone ideal for women who are relatively thin and have little native fat or tissue to conceal any ripples that may occur. Silicone implants are also widely considered to have a more natural look and feel than saline implants. There are certainly cases, however, that saline implants may be a more appropriate option.

Experienced surgeon Dr. J. Timothy Katzen has performed numerous successful breast augmentations and can assist you in choosing the most appropriate implant option for your procedure.

Is there an alternative to breast implants?

In some cases, patients may desire an increase in breast volume but not feel comfortable with the idea of breast implants. Dr. Katzen is proud to offer the option of fat grafting, also known as autologous fat transfer. This cutting-edge procedure uses liposuction to extract fat from one area of the body and transfer it to another. In the case of fat transfer for breast augmentation, Dr. Katzen will take fat from one area of the patient's body, purify and separate it using a centrifuge, and inject it into the breasts using a series of syringes until a smooth, even, and beautiful contour is achieved.

Who is an ideal candidate for fat transfer?

As with any surgical procedure, candidates for fat transfer should be in relatively good health, refrain from smoking, and have no contraindications to surgery or anesthesia. In the case of fat grafting for breast augmentation, it is important that patients are at a healthy and stable weight that has been maintained for at least six months, and that they have enough fat to extract and transfer to their breasts. In some cases, Dr. Katzen is able to extract fat from multiple areas and combine it in order to get an adequate amount.

It's important to note that there is a limit to the results that can be achieved through fat grafting. Patients who want a small volume increase or to even out the breasts after a lumpectomy or trauma can achieve desirable results through fat transfer. Women who want a dramatic increase in breast size may be better suited to augmentation using implants.

Why choose fat transfer vs. breast implants?

When deciding between fat transfer and silicone or saline implants for your breast augmentation, there are several things to consider. Ultimately, your personal preferences and the surgeon’s recommendations will play the largest role in what course of action is taken. As mentioned above, fat transfer does have more limitations when it comes to the amount of volume that can be added. If you are looking to go up more than 1 – 2 cup sizes, breast implants are likely to be a better option for you. Many patients also take into account the natural aspect of fat transfer when evaluating their breast augmentation options. Because fat grafting uses a patient’s native fat, there is little to no risk of rejection. Some patients also enjoy the idea of achieving results without the use of an artificial substance.

Should I get breast implants or a fat transfer?

The decision whether to increase your breast size using fat transfer or breast implants is a personal one. The best way to determine which course of action is right for you is to schedule a consultation with plastic surgeon Dr. J. Timothy Katzen. During your appointment, Dr. Katzen will take time to evaluate your case, discuss your goals, explain your options, answer your questions, and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.

Call J. Timothy Katzen, M.D. Beverly Hills in Beverly Hills, CA, to schedule your consultation today, and learn how breast augmentation through fat transfer or implants can enhance your look and boost your confidence.