Overview
Breast lipofilling, also known as breast augmentation using autologous fat transfer, is a cosmetic surgery technique that allows for a moderate increase in breast volume using the patient’s own fat.
This procedure is based on a two-step process: gentle liposuction to remove fat from certain areas of the body (abdomen, hips, thighs, etc.), followed by the re-injection of the fat into the breasts after special preparation.
In Paris, Dr. Alexandre Vairinho offers breast lipofilling to patients seeking a subtle, natural enhancement without implants. This technique is particularly suited for women who want a moderate increase in volume while improving their silhouette through fat transfer.
Breast lipofilling generally does not result in very significant increases in volume. The decision to proceed is therefore made on a case-by-case basis during the consultation.
Explanation of the technique
Breast lipofilling involves removing fat through liposuction, purifying it, and then carefully reinjecting it into the breasts to enhance their volume and shape.
Fat removal
The first step involves performing a gentle liposuction procedure to harvest the fat that will be used for the graft.
This liposuction procedure is performed using fine cannulas, which help preserve the quality of the fat cells as much as possible. The areas from which fat is removed are those where there is a sufficient amount of fat and where its removal can improve the body’s contours.
The most frequently used areas are:
- the abdomen
- the hips
- riding breeches
- the thighs
- the sides
The choice of liposuction sites is discussed during the preoperative consultation and depends on each patient’s body type, the amount of available fat, and the overall plan for body contouring.
Preparing the fat
The harvested fat cannot be re-injected immediately. It must first be processed and purified to select the most viable fat cells.
This step typically includes:
- the removal of blood and liposuction fluid
- the separation of intact fat cells
- the preparation of micrografts ready for re-injection
This preparatory phase is essential because it helps maximize the survival of fat cells after transplantation.
Only high-quality fat cells are then selected for re-injection.
Réinjection dans les seins
The final step involves reinjecting the fat into the breasts using very fine microcannulas.
The fat is injected in small, gradual, multi-layered deposits into the breast tissue. This technique allows for:
- an even distribution of fat
- adequate blood supply to the transplanted cells
- better graft take
- a natural look and feel
The filler is injected at various anatomical levels to achieve a harmonious and gradual contour of the breast.
The final volume obtained depends mainly on:
- the amount of fat that can be removed
- the ability of breast tissue to accept the graft
- the graft's take following the procedure
Some of the injected fat may be naturally absorbed by the body in the weeks following the procedure. The fat that remains becomes permanently integrated into the tissue and contributes to the final result.
Overview of the procedure
The process for breast lipofilling begins with a specialized consultation to assess your body type and the feasibility of the procedure. During this consultation, the following steps are taken:
- a comprehensive clinical examination
- assessment of fat donor sites
- analysis of initial breast volume
- a discussion of your expectations and realistic goals
- the provision of detailed medical information
- the preparation of a customized quote in accordance with the legal cooling-off period
A preoperative evaluation is then scheduled, and a consultation with the anesthesiologist is arranged. Depending on your age and medical history, a mammogram or other breast imaging test may also be requested.
The procedure is performed in a clinic, usually under general anesthesia, though sometimes under local anesthesia with sedation, depending on the situation. The procedure generally lasts between 1.5 and 2.5 hours, depending on the amount of fat to be harvested and reinjected.
Breast lipofilling is performed in two stages:
- gentle liposuction of the donor sites (abdomen, hips, thighs, etc.) to harvest fat
- preparation and subsequent reinjection of the fat into the breasts using microcannulas to achieve a natural and even result
The procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis, with patients returning home the same day.
Postoperative Care and Expected Results
Postoperative symptoms are generally well tolerated. They affect both the breasts and the areas where fat was harvested.
In the early days, it is common to observe:
- moderate breast edema
- bruising in the areas where liposuction was performed
- a feeling of soreness or tightness
- temporary breast tenderness
A compression garment is prescribed for the liposuction areas for several weeks to optimize recovery. A support bra may also be recommended to help maintain the results.
Activities are gradually resuming :
- light activities: after a few days
- sedentary work: about 5 to 10 days
- sports: generally after 4 weeks, as recommended
Some of the injected fat is naturally reabsorbed in the weeks following the procedure. This is taken into account when planning the procedure in order to achieve a stable result.
Breast lipofilling provides a natural-looking and natural-feeling breast augmentation.
The expected benefits are:
- a moderate and gradual increase in volume
- a more harmonious breast contour
- the absence of a breast implant
- improved body contouring through liposuction of donor sites
The results gradually improve over the months following the procedure, as the tissues heal and the grafted fat becomes permanently integrated.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Lipofilling
Lipofilling generally results in a moderate increase in breast size, often by about one cup size. The outcome depends on the amount of available fat and how well the graft takes.
Some of the grafted fat is absorbed by the body in the weeks following the procedure. The fat that remains permanently then behaves like normal fatty tissue.
In some cases, lipofilling may be considered after implant removal, but this depends on the desired volume, the quality of the tissue, and the available fat supply. A personalized assessment is essential.
Yes, lipofilling uses the patient’s own fat, which generally results in a very natural look and feel.
The best candidates are patients who:
- wish for a moderate increase
- have sufficient body fat reserves
- are looking for a natural result
- do not want breast implants
The consultation helps confirm the diagnosis.
>> This page is intended to provide general information. Only a consultation with Dr. Vairinho will allow for an accurate assessment of your situation and the recommendation of an appropriate treatment plan. A personalized quote is provided only during a consultation.
