Introduction
Autologous fat breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure that offers a natural - looking alternative to traditional breast implants. This method involves using the patient's own fat cells to enhance the size and shape of the breasts. In New York City, there are several hospitals and clinics known for their expertise in this area. This article will explore some of the top - performing institutions and discuss the key aspects of autologous fat breast augmentation.
Understanding Autologous Fat Breast Augmentation
What is Autologous Fat Breast Augmentation?
Autologous fat breast augmentation, also known as fat transfer breast augmentation, is a plastic surgery technique. As described in the top Google search results, it uses fat grafting to increase breast volume. Fat cells are harvested from other areas of the body, such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks, using liposuction. The collected fat is then processed to remove impurities and excess fluids before being re - injected into the breasts through multiple strategic injection sites. This procedure offers two - way benefits: it helps slim down a specific problem area of the body and increases breast volume without the need for breast implants.
Benefits of Autologous Fat Breast Augmentation
- Natural Look and Feel: Since the procedure uses the patient's own fat, the enhanced breasts look and feel more natural compared to those with implants. The fat integrates with the existing breast tissue, providing a smooth and organic appearance.
- Minimal Scarring: The incisions made during liposuction and fat injection are typically small, resulting in less noticeable scars than traditional breast implant surgeries.
- Body Contouring: In addition to breast enhancement, the removal of excess fat from donor areas can help improve the body's overall contour, creating a more proportionate silhouette.
- Reduced Risk of Complications: Unlike breast implants, which carry risks such as rupture, capsular contracture, and implant migration, autologous fat transfer eliminates the risk of implant - related complications.
Top Hospitals in New York City for Autologous Fat Breast Augmentation
Steven Wallach MD, FACS
Dr. Steven Wallach is a well - known plastic surgeon in New York City who specializes in fat transfer breast augmentation. According to his clinic's information, he offers a fat grafting procedure that is safe, natural, and permanent. Dr. Wallach takes a personalized approach, tailoring the procedure to each patient's goals and body type.
Procedure Details
- Liposuction: Once the patient is anesthetized, Dr. Wallach uses liposuction to remove fat from a problem area, often around the abdomen like the love handles. A tiny incision is made at the donor site, and a thin, hollow tube (cannula) connected to a vacuum pump or syringe is inserted to suction out the excess fat.
- Purification: Before injection, the harvested fat is purified to remove other bodily fluids. This can be done by spinning the collected fat in a centrifuge or allowing it to separate by gravity and then collecting the fat for re - injection.
- Injection: After purification, Dr. Wallach makes several injections throughout the breasts to ensure even distribution and a natural - looking shape. The fat cells gradually incorporate into the breast tissue, increasing breast size.
Recovery and Results
Recovery from a fat transfer breast augmentation with Dr. Wallach is usually easier than after breast augmentation with implants. Patients typically need two or three days of recovery before returning to work. They may need to wear a compression garment and surgical bra. The final results may take several months to appear as the swelling subsides. New York City women who undergo this procedure typically experience an increase of about one cup size, although results can vary.
Murray Hill Plastic Surgery & Vein Center
At Murray Hill Plastic Surgery & Vein Center, Dr. Sabry is at the forefront of autologous breast augmentation with fat transfer. He combines advanced fat transfer methods with cutting - edge tissue expansion technology, specifically the brava tissue expansion system.
Procedure Steps
- Preparation with Brava System (Optional): Patients are required to use the brava tissue expansion system for several weeks before the actual surgery. This device uses gentle suction to gradually expand the breast tissue, increasing blood supply and stimulating new tissue growth. Patients usually wear it for 10 - 12 hours a day, which can be done during sleep and at home.
- Fat Harvesting: Dr. Sabry uses a gentle liposuction technique to remove fat from areas such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks. This step not only provides fat for transfer but also offers body contouring benefits.
- Breast Fat Transfer Procedure: The harvested fat is purified, and then Dr. Sabry carefully injects it into various layers of the breast tissue using an advanced fat transfer technique to achieve natural - looking and long - lasting results.
Benefits and Cost
The autologous breast augmentation at this center offers many benefits, including being minimally invasive, customizable, and a safer alternative to implants. The average cost of the procedure in NYC typically ranges from $8,000 to $15,000, with the brava system adding an additional $2,000 to $3,000. However, the center offers various financing options to make the procedure more accessible.
Mount Sinai - New York
Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation procedures, including the natural fill® fat transfer technique. This two - step procedure involves first removing fat from the buttocks or abdomen using liposuction and then immediately inserting the fat into the breasts.
Pre - surgery and Consultation
Before scheduling the surgery, Mount Sinai uses advanced 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look. Surgeons consult with patients to understand their desires for breast enhancement and help them decide on the size and shape that will suit their body best. A physical exam and health - related questions are also part of the pre - surgery assessment to confirm the patient's candidacy.
Options and Results
Patients at Mount Sinai have the option of choosing between breast implants (silicone or saline) and the natural fill® fat transfer method. The results of breast augmentation at Mount Sinai are expected to last for years, but factors like pregnancy, nursing, and significant weight changes may cause natural drooping over time, and additional procedures like a breast lift may be considered if needed.
Aristocrat Plastic Surgery
Dr. Kevin Tehrani at Aristocrat Plastic Surgery is an expert in breast fat injection. This procedure is ideal for women who want a moderate increase in breast size (up to one cup size) and also wish to reduce excess fat in other areas of the body.
Procedure Overview
- Consultation: Dr. Tehrani discusses the patient's goals, assesses their candidacy, explains the risks and benefits, reviews the medical history, and performs a physical examination to determine if there is enough excess fat for the procedure.
- Pre - operative Preparations: Suitable candidates are given pre - operative instructions regarding diet, exercise, and medications to avoid before surgery.
- Liposuction and Fat Processing: Fat is harvested from donor areas using liposuction, and then processed to purify the healthy fat cells.
- Injection into the Breasts: The purified fat is injected into various areas of the breasts through small incisions to achieve the desired size and shape, with careful attention to symmetry.
Recovery
Most patients can return home the same day after the procedure but need to arrange for someone to drive them. They are fitted with a compression garment, and swelling and bruising are common but should subside over time. Strenuous activities should be avoided for several weeks, and follow - up appointments are scheduled to monitor progress.
Comparing Autologous Fat Breast Augmentation with Traditional Breast Implants
Differences in Procedure
Autologous fat breast augmentation uses the patient's own fat, which is harvested, processed, and injected. In contrast, traditional breast implants involve the insertion of silicone or saline implants through incisions in the breast. The size, shape, and texture of implants can be customized, but the autologous fat transfer results in a more natural look and feel as it uses the patient's own tissue.
Results and Expectations
Breast implants can provide a more significant and predictable size increase, often allowing for a larger cup - size change compared to autologous fat transfer, which typically results in an increase of up to one cup size. However, fat transfer offers a more natural appearance and eliminates the risk of implant - related complications. Results from fat transfer may take longer to fully manifest as the body adjusts to the transferred fat, and some fat reabsorption may occur.
Cost Comparison
The cost of autologous fat breast augmentation can vary depending on factors such as the amount of fat transfer required and pre - operative preparations like the use of the brava system. On average, it can range from $8,000 to $15,000 in New York City, plus additional costs for related equipment. Traditional breast implant surgeries also have a variable cost depending on the type of implant and the complexity of the procedure, but they do not have the potential additional cost of fat - harvesting and purification associated with autologous fat transfer.
Choosing the Right Hospital and Surgeon
Qualifications and Experience
When considering autologous fat breast augmentation in New York City, it is crucial to choose a board - certified plastic surgeon with significant experience in this specific procedure. Surgeons with a proven track record of successful outcomes are more likely to provide high - quality results. For example, Dr. Steven Wallach and Dr. Kevin Tehrani are both recognized for their expertise in breast - related procedures.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can give you an insight into the experiences of previous patients. Positive feedback about the surgeon's skill, bedside manner, and the overall outcome of the procedure can help you make an informed decision. For instance, the real - patient reviews for Dr. William Lao on his website showcase the satisfaction of patients who had facial and fat - grafting procedures.
Before - and - After Photos
Requesting to see before - and - after photos of previous patients who have undergone autologous fat breast augmentation can give you an idea of the surgeon's aesthetic skills and the type of results you can expect. This visual representation can help you determine if the surgeon's style aligns with your desired outcome.
Pre - operative and Post - operative Considerations
Pre - operative Preparations
Before undergoing autologous fat breast augmentation, patients may need to follow specific pre - operative instructions. This can include getting a blood test, ceasing or altering certain medication plans, and arranging for someone to drive them to and from the surgical center. Some procedures may also require the use of devices like the brava tissue expansion system for several weeks before surgery.
Post - operative Recovery
Recovery from autologous fat breast augmentation typically involves some swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Patients are usually advised to wear a compression garment and surgical bra to support healing and reduce swelling. Strenuous activities should be avoided for a few weeks, and regular follow - up appointments with the surgeon are essential to monitor progress and address any concerns.
Long - term Maintenance
To ensure the longevity of the results, patients should maintain a stable weight. Significant weight fluctuations can affect the appearance and integrity of the transferred fat. A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can also contribute to the long - term success of the procedure. Additionally, it is advisable to avoid pregnancy and breastfeeding after fat transfer breast augmentation, as these can cause changes in breast size and shape.
Potential Risks and Complications
Like any surgical procedure, autologous fat breast augmentation carries some risks and potential complications. These can include:
- Infection: There is a risk of infection following the procedure. Surgeons take precautions such as administering antibiotics and ensuring a sterile environment during surgery to minimize this risk.
- Scarring: Although the incisions are typically small, scarring may occur at the sites where fat is harvested or injected. However, in most cases, the scars are minimal and well - hidden.
- Changes in Nipple Sensation: Some patients may experience temporary or permanent changes in nipple sensation, such as increased or decreased sensitivity or numbness.
- Asymmetry: Achieving perfect symmetry in breast size and shape can be challenging. There may be a slight asymmetry after fat grafting, and additional procedures may be required to correct it.
- Fat Reabsorption: Not all of the transferred fat cells may survive, and the body may reabsorb a portion of the fat, which can affect the final result. Multiple sessions may be needed to achieve the desired outcome.
Conclusion
Autologous fat breast augmentation is an excellent option for women in New York City who want a natural - looking breast enhancement. Hospitals like Steven Wallach MD, FACS, Murray Hill Plastic Surgery & Vein Center, Mount Sinai - New York, and Aristocrat Plastic Surgery offer specialized expertise in this procedure. When considering this surgery, it is important to carefully research the hospital and surgeon, understand the procedure, and be aware of the pre - operative and post - operative considerations as well as the potential risks.
If you are interested in learning more about autologous fat breast augmentation in New York City, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a board - certified plastic surgeon. They can provide you with personalized advice and help you make an informed decision about whether this procedure is right for you.
