Introduction
Fat transfer breast augmentation is a sought - after cosmetic procedure in New York City. It offers a natural alternative to traditional breast implants, using a patient's own fat cells to enhance breast size and shape. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of the procedure, along with a list of top hospitals and surgeons in New York City where you can undergo fat transfer breast augmentation.
Understanding Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation
What is Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation?
Fat transfer breast augmentation, also known as autologous fat graft breast enlargement, is a procedure that collects fat from one part of the body, such as the abdomen, thighs, or buttocks, and transfers it directly to the breast tissue. This natural alternative to breast implants can achieve conservative increases in breast size, although only very small breast size increases can be anticipated. As per Dr. Kolker's clinic, for women who desire a small increase in breast size (approximately ¼ cup size) and have areas of fat excess, this procedure may be ideal.
How it Works
The process of fat transfer breast augmentation typically involves two main steps: liposuction and fat grafting. First, the surgeon uses liposuction techniques through tiny needle access sites to harvest fat cells from the donor area. Then, the harvested fat is carefully prepared and purified, removing any impurities like blood or water. Finally, the purified fat is injected into multiple planes of the breast through small needle sites to create a natural - looking and symmetrical shape.
Benefits
- Natural Look and Feel: Since it uses the patient's own fat, the results look and feel more natural compared to breast implants.
- Minimal Scarring: There are no large incisions on the breasts. Only tiny needle sites are used for both liposuction and fat injection, resulting in minimal scarring.
- Body Contouring: The liposuction part of the procedure helps in removing excess fat from areas like the abdomen or thighs, leading to a more sculpted body.
- Lower Risk of Complications: As no foreign objects are inserted, there is no risk of implant - related complications such as capsular contracture or implant rupture.
Limitations
- Small Size Increase: It can only provide a small increase in breast size, usually up to ¼ - ½ cup size. If a more significant increase is desired, breast implants may be a better option.
- Variable Fat Survival: Not all the transferred fat cells will survive. Some may be reabsorbed by the body, which may require additional procedures to achieve the desired results.
- Donor Site Issues: In slim women or those who undergo multiple procedures, there may be irregularities and deformities in the fat donor site where liposuction is performed.
- Impact on Mammography: Lumps, nodules, and oil cysts may occur in the breasts, which can confound mammography and routine breast cancer surveillance.
Top Hospitals and Surgeons in New York City for Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation
Mount Sinai
Mount Sinai is a well - known medical institution in New York City. Their plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation procedures. They offer various options for breast enlargement, including the natural fill® fat transfer technique, which was pioneered and perfected by Mount Sinai surgeons. Before the surgery, they use advanced 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look. Their surgeons will also consult with patients, listening to their desires and helping them decide on the best option in terms of size and shape for their body. The typical form of breast augmentation here also includes the use of breast implants, both silicone and saline, and they will advise patients based on their body type and desired outcome.
AEDIT Providers
AEDIT lists 42 certified providers for breast augmentation with fat transfer in New York, NY. Some of the notable providers include:
Surgeon | Location | Before - After Images | Virtual Appointments | Free Consultation |
---|---|---|---|---|
Kevin Tehrani, MD, FACS | 33 West 56th Street, New York, NY 10019 | 30 | Available | Yes |
Umbareen Mahmood, MD | 37 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019 | 30 | Available | No |
Craig Baldenhofer, MD | 115 West 27th Street, New York, NY 10001 | 12 | Not mentioned | No |
Dr. Kolker's Clinic
Dr. Kolker offers fat transfer breast augmentation in New York. His procedure is suitable for very select individuals who desire a small increase in breast size. He assesses the patient's anatomic contour during the initial consultation, identifies areas of excess fat for harvest, and evaluates the regions that will best contribute to fat transfer and body contouring. Dr. Kolker also uses the brava system to promote a well - vascularized “scaffold” for the acceptance of fat grafts to the breast, which can lead to more reliable and long - lasting results. Many patients have left positive testimonials about his work, including comments about his ability to correct asymmetrical breasts and provide amazing patient care.
Dr. Alizadeh's Cosmoplastic Surgery
Dr. Kaveh Alizadeh, a fellowship - trained, double Ivy - league alumnus with over 23 years of experience, offers fat transfer breast augmentation at Cosmoplastic Surgery. He starts with a thoughtful consultation to understand the patient's concerns and aesthetic goals. During the procedure, extreme care is taken to harvest fat gently to ensure cell survival. The fat is then cleansed and purified before being injected into the breasts to create an ideal shape. After the surgery, patients will have compression bandages to prevent swelling and support the new breast shape. Recovery time varies, but on average, patients spend 1 - 2 days resting and can return to work within a week. The results depend on maintaining current weight, and some patients may opt for a follow - up to achieve greater volume.
Dr. Steven Wallach
Dr. Steven Wallach provides breast enlargement through a fat transfer procedure. He offers a three - step process that includes liposuction, purification, and injection. Liposuction is used to remove fat from problem areas, usually around the abdomen. The removed fat is then purified by methods like centrifugation or gravity separation. Finally, the purified fat is injected into the breasts to ensure an even distribution and a natural - looking shape. Recovery from his fat transfer procedure is usually easier than after breast augmentation with implants, and patients typically need two or three days of recovery before returning to work. New York City women who undergo his fat transfer breast enlargement usually experience an increase of about one cup size, although results vary.
Millennial Plastic Surgery
Millennial Plastic Surgery, led by Dr. David Shokrian, offers fat transfer breast augmentation. Dr. Shokrian creates an individualized treatment plan after discussing the patient's treatment goals. The procedure involves marking the fat - harvesting and injection sites, administering anesthesia (local or general), harvesting fat from areas like the inner thighs, outer hips, etc., concentrating and purifying the fat, and then injecting it into the breasts. After the procedure, patients can expect some pain and soreness, which can be managed with over - the - counter medication. The final results take about six months as the fat cells settle, and they last for life without the need for special care. The cost of the procedure starts at $3,000 and can rise based on factors like location, surgeon expertise, and the extent of fat transfer.
Dr. Antell
Dr. Antell offers fat transfer breast augmentation in New York City for women who want a natural enhancement to their breasts. His consultation process involves a thorough review of the patient's medical history, examination, and discussion of aesthetic goals. He helps patients choose the best fat - harvesting areas to achieve a sculpted figure. During the surgery, he carefully harvests and purifies fat to ensure the highest chance of fat cell survival in the breasts. After the procedure, patients will have compression bandages and a recovery period that typically requires one to two days of recuperation and about a week before returning to work. He also overfills the breasts during the procedure to account for possible fat reabsorption.
Dr. William Lao
Dr. William Lao is a double - board certified plastic surgeon who specializes in natural fat breast augmentation in New York City. He offers a more natural alternative to traditional breast augmentation by using the patient's own fat. He assesses the patient's overall health and fat availability during the consultation to determine if the procedure is suitable. The surgery involves administering local anesthesia, using liposuction to remove fat from areas like the thighs or stomach, and injecting the purified fat into the breasts. Compared to breast implants, his fat transfer method has fewer long - term risks and provides permanent, natural - looking results.
Is Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation Right for You?
Candidacy Criteria
To be a good candidate for fat transfer breast augmentation, the following criteria are often considered:
- Health: You should be in good general health with no serious medical concerns.
- Smoking: Non - smokers are preferred as smoking can impair healing and increase the risk of complications.
- Body Fat: You must have sufficient unwanted fat in areas like the abdomen, thighs, or buttocks to harvest for the procedure. An ideal BMI is often around 22 or higher.
- Breast Goals: You should have realistic expectations. If you only desire a small to moderate increase in breast size (up to 1 - 2 cup sizes) and prefer a natural look and feel, this procedure may be suitable.
- Breast Health: You should have a normal mammogram and no personal or family history of breast disease.
- Stable Weight: It's important to be at a stable weight that can be maintained, as significant weight changes can affect the results.
Preparing for Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation
Medical Consultation
Before the surgery, you will have a detailed consultation with your surgeon. They will perform a physical examination, review your medical history, and discuss your aesthetic goals. They will also help you understand the procedure, potential risks, and expected results. You can use this opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
Lifestyle Changes
- Medications: Stop taking any vitamins, herbal supplements, or drugs that could thin the blood, such as aspirin or other anti - inflammatory drugs, within two weeks of the surgery.
- Smoking: If you smoke, quit at least a week before the surgery to improve blood flow and reduce the risk of complications.
Logistical Preparations
- Transportation: Arrange for someone to drive you to and from the surgical center as you may be drowsy after the procedure.
- Recovery Space: Prepare a comfortable recovery area at home with essentials like loose clothing, pain medication, and ice packs.
The Procedure Day
Anesthesia
Depending on the surgeon's recommendation and your comfort level, you may receive local anesthesia with a sedative or general anesthesia. Local anesthesia is often used on the identified treatment areas for liposuction and fat injection.
Fat Harvesting
The surgeon makes small incisions in the donor area, such as the abdomen or thighs, and uses liposuction to gently remove the fat cells. Care is taken to preserve the fat cells for better survival.
Fat Purification
The harvested fat is then purified to remove any impurities, such as blood or water. This can be done through centrifugation or straining.
Fat Injection
The purified fat is injected into the breasts using a special syringe. The surgeon will carefully distribute the fat in multiple planes of the breast tissue to create a natural - looking shape and symmetry.
Aftercare
After the procedure, you will have compression bandages around your breasts and the fat donor site. You will be monitored in the recovery area until you are cleared to leave. You will be given instructions on pain management, wound care, and follow - up appointments.
Recovery and Results
Immediate Post - Surgery
You may experience some pain, soreness, swelling, and bruising in the breasts and the donor area. Over - the - counter pain medication can help manage the pain. You will need to wear a surgical bra to support the new breast shape and reduce swelling. Rest is crucial during the first few days, and you should avoid strenuous physical activity.
Short - Term Recovery
Most patients can return to work within a week, although swelling and bruising may still be present. You should avoid direct sunlight on the treated areas and apply sunscreen if going outside. It's important to follow the surgeon's instructions regarding medication and wound care.
Long - Term Results
The final results of fat transfer breast augmentation take about six months as the fat cells settle. During this time, some of the transferred fat may be reabsorbed by the body, which is why surgeons often overfill the breasts during the initial procedure. If you maintain your current weight, the results can be long - lasting.
Cost of Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation
The cost of fat transfer breast augmentation in New York City can vary widely. Factors that affect the cost include:
- Surgeon's Expertise: More experienced and well - known surgeons may charge higher fees.
- Extent of the Procedure: The amount of fat that needs to be harvested and transferred, as well as the complexity of the case, can impact the cost.
- Location: The cost may be higher in more upscale or high - demand areas of the city.
- Additional Costs: This includes aftercare medication, anesthesia fees, and facility fees.
Conclusion
Fat transfer breast augmentation is an excellent option for women in New York City who want a natural - looking breast enhancement. With many experienced surgeons and top - notch medical facilities in the city, patients have access to high - quality care. However, it's important to carefully consider the procedure's benefits, limitations, and candidacy criteria before making a decision. By choosing a qualified surgeon and following all pre - and post - operative instructions, you can achieve beautiful and long - lasting results. If you're interested in fat transfer breast augmentation, don't hesitate to schedule a consultation with a reputable surgeon in New York City to learn more about the process and determine if it's right for you.