Breast lipofilling
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Breast lipofilling (autologous fat tissue grafting to the breasts) is a surgical method for shaping and moderately augmenting the breasts using the patient's own fat tissue. The procedure combines elements of liposuction and fat transplantation, allowing for correction of selected body areas while improving the shape and volume of the breasts. Compared to implants, this technique is characterized by a natural visual and tactile effect; however, its volumetric capabilities are biologically limited by the survival of the transplanted adipocytes. Lipofilling is used in both aesthetic and reconstructive medicine (e.g., after oncological treatment), and its effectiveness depends on the proper qualification of the patient, the surgical technique, and adherence to perioperative guidelines.
Breast lipofilling – what is it
Breast lipofilling involves harvesting fat tissue (usually from the abdomen, thighs, hips, or lumbar region), its purification and preparation (separation, decantation, or centrifugation), and precise injection into the breast in many small deposits.
Key aspects of the procedure:
- Autologous tissue is used, which minimizes the risk of immune reactions,
- The transplanted adipocytes require rapid revascularization to survive,
- The volume of a single transplant is limited by the physiology of the tissues,
- Some of the injected fat undergoes resorption in the first few months after the procedure.
The procedure is usually performed under general or regional anesthesia and requires operator experience, as incorrect technique increases the risk of fat necrosis and calcifications.
Breast Lipofilling – How to Prepare
Preparation for the procedure is crucial for the safety and survival of the transplant. It includes:
Medical Qualification
- Detailed medical history,
- Breast examination (ultrasound, and for selected patients, mammography),
- Assessment of the donor's adipose tissue quantity and quality.
Pre-operative Tests
- Blood count, coagulation profile, electrolytes,
- Virological tests in accordance with the surgical protocol.
Pre-procedure Recommendations
- Cessation of nicotine at least 4 weeks before the procedure (nicotine significantly reduces adipocyte survival),
- Avoiding medications that affect blood clotting,
- Stabilization of body weight (weight fluctuations worsen the predictability of the outcome).
Lack of proper preparation is one of the main causes of unsatisfactory results - there are no shortcuts here.
Breast lipofilling – effects
The effects of lipofilling are natural and subtle, rather than "spectacular" in terms of significant volume increase. Most commonly observed are:
- moderate increase in breast volume (usually up to one size),
- improvement in shape and symmetry,
- enhancement of skin elasticity and quality,
- smoothing out of irregularities and depressions,
- a "rejuvenation" effect of the breasts due to the presence of stem cells in the adipose tissue.
It must be clearly stated: if a patient expects a significant increase of several sizes, lipofilling will not meet these expectations. It is a method for those who value naturalness over maximum volume.
Breast lipofilling – how long does it last
The survival rate of transplanted fat is on average 60–80%, and the stabilization process takes about 3–6 months. During this time:
- some adipocytes undergo resorption,
- the remaining cells integrate with the recipient tissues,
- the volumetric effect gradually "stabilizes."
The maintenance of the result depends on:
- the surgical technique,
- lifestyle (smoking, diet),
- stability of body weight.
With significant weight loss, breast volume may decrease – this is a biological consequence of using one's own fat, not a complication.
Breast lipofilling - how much does it cost
The cost of breast lipofilling in Poland is variable and depends on several factors, including:
- the extent of liposuction,
- the amount of fat to be transplanted,
- the experience of the surgical team,
- the anesthesia used and postoperative care.
Generally, prices range from several thousand to tens of thousands of Polish zlotys. It's important to maintain critical thinking towards extremely low-budget offers – in reconstructive-aesthetic surgery, the price usually reflects the quality of the medical facilities and the safety of the procedure.
Breast lipofilling treatments
Breast lipofilling can be performed as:
- a one-time procedure – for minor volume correction,
- a staged procedure – to gradually increase volume,
- a complement to other methods (e.g., correction of asymmetry after implants),
- breast reconstruction after surgical treatment or injuries.
Each case requires an individualized treatment plan. Universal schemes do not exist, and attempts to use them result in disappointment for both the patient and the doctor.