Fat transfer, or breast lipofilling, uses your own fat to increase the volume of the breasts. The fat is harvested by liposuction, then injected into the breasts. This technique gives a moderate augmentation, without an implant. It is intended for people who want a natural result and who have enough fat available. It can also correct an asymmetry or improve the cleavage.
How the procedure unfolds
In practice
- In consultation, I analyse your request and your expectations.
- I examine your breasts and the areas where fat can be harvested.
- I also collect information about your state of health and your breast history.
- We take photographs for your medical record.
- I offer you a 3D simulation of the expected result with the Crisalix software.
- Breast imaging (ultrasound or mammogram) is generally requested before the procedure.
- I give you all the information about the surgery and give you an estimate.
A second consultation is mandatory before any procedure. You must stop smoking at least one month before the procedure.
Surgery
The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia, at the Clinique Pasteur in Toulouse. It is most often done on an outpatient basis.
I harvest the fat by liposuction from the areas we have chosen together (stomach, hips, thighs). The fat is then purified and injected into the breasts through very small incisions.
The scars measure a few millimetres. They are located on the harvested areas and at the base of the breasts.
The procedure generally lasts between 1.5 and 3 hours. You go home with a compression garment on the harvested areas and a compression bra.
Postoperative effects
Pain is generally moderate. It mainly concerns the harvested areas.
- Bruises and swelling appear on the harvested areas and on the breasts. They generally fade within two to three weeks.
- You can return to normal activity after one to two weeks.
- Sport can be resumed after about four to six weeks.
- The breasts look larger at first, then the volume decreases as part of the fat is resorbed.
The final result can be assessed after several months. I see you again at several follow-up consultations. Regular breast imaging remains necessary, as for every woman.
Weight and fat transfer
A stable weight is recommended before the procedure. Part of the injected fat is resorbed during the first months. The remaining volume is generally permanent. It then changes with your weight, like the rest of your body. The volume gain per session is moderate. A second session can be proposed if you want a larger volume.
What to do to optimize the result?
- Hydrate yourself and your skin, before and after the procedure.
- Do not smoke: tobacco reduces fat survival and slows healing.
- Wear the compression garment as recommended.
- Avoid any strong pressure on the breasts during the first weeks.
- Protect the scars from the sun during the first year.
- Keep a stable weight.
Social security coverage
Breast augmentation by fat transfer for aesthetic purposes is not covered by social security. In some cases (malformation, significant asymmetry, reconstruction), coverage may exist. We discuss this in consultation.
Pricing
From 4800 euros, on estimate given at the end of the consultation.
The SOFCPRE information sheet for your procedure is given to you during the consultation.