Introduction
Breast fat glue transplantation, also known as fat transfer breast augmentation, has emerged as a popular alternative to traditional breast augmentation with implants in New York City. This procedure offers a more natural approach to enhancing breast size and shape by using a patient's own fat cells. In this article, we will explore the details of breast fat glue transplantation, including the procedure, its benefits and limitations, ideal candidates, and some of the top plastic surgery hospitals and surgeons in New York City that offer this service.
What is Breast Fat Glue Transplantation?
Breast fat glue transplantation, or fat transfer breast augmentation, is a surgical procedure that allows women to subtly enhance breast size by using their own fat cells. This is also referred to as autologous fat graft breast enlargement. The process involves collecting fat from one part of the body, typically areas with excess fat such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks, and transferring it directly to the breast tissue to naturally increase breast volume.
Unlike traditional breast augmentation with implants, which can provide a more dramatic increase in breast size, fat transfer breast augmentation usually results in a more modest increase, typically around ¼ to ½ cup size. However, it offers a more natural look and feel, as the body is using its own tissues.
How the Procedure Works
The breast fat glue transplantation procedure typically consists of two main steps: liposuction and fat grafting.
Liposuction
During the liposuction phase, the surgeon makes tiny needle access sites in the donor area (such as the abdomen or thighs) and uses a liposuction device to remove excess fat. Some surgeons prefer to aspirate the fat by hand to gently remove the fat cells and maximize fat graft “take.” The fat is then carefully harvested and collected. For example, Dr. Steven Wallach makes a tiny incision at the donor site and inserts the liposuction device’s cannula, a thin, hollow tube connected to a vacuum pump or a syringe, to suction out the excess fat.
Fat Grafting
After the fat is harvested, it is purified to remove any other bodily fluids that may have been collected during liposuction. This can be done by spinning the collected fat in a centrifuge or allowing the fat to separate by gravity and then collecting the pure fat. The purified fat is then carefully injected into multiple planes of the breast through small needle sites. The surgeon must use finesse and a delicate technique to ensure even distribution and a natural - looking breast shape. For instance, Dr. Antell injects the fat into specific amounts and locations in each breast to create an ideal fullness, symmetry, and aesthetic appearance.
Benefits of Breast Fat Glue Transplantation
There are several advantages to choosing breast fat glue transplantation over traditional breast augmentation with implants.
Natural Results
One of the most significant benefits is the natural look and feel of the results. Since the procedure uses the patient's own fat cells, the breasts look and feel like natural tissue, which can be more appealing to many women. As Dr. David Cangello mentions, the results of fat transfer breast enhancement look and feel 100% natural.
No Implant - Related Issues
Unlike breast implants, which can have complications such as leakage, capsular contracture, or the need for replacement over time, fat transfer eliminates these concerns. Once the fat cells establish a blood supply in the breast, they are a part of the body's natural tissue. For example, with traditional breast implants, there is a risk of implant rupture, but this is not a concern with fat transfer.
Body Contouring
The liposuction part of the procedure also offers the benefit of body contouring. By removing excess fat from areas such as the abdomen or thighs, patients can achieve a more sculpted appearance in those areas while enhancing their breasts. As Dr. Antell points out, fat transfer breast augmentation provides a smoother, more sculpted, and contoured area of the body where the fat was transferred from.
Minimal Scarring
Since the procedure uses tiny needle access sites for both liposuction and fat injection, there is minimal visible scarring compared to traditional breast augmentation surgeries, which may require larger incisions.
The following table summarizes the benefits of breast fat glue transplantation:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Natural Results | Breasts look and feel like natural tissue |
| No Implant - Related Issues | Eliminates risks such as leakage, capsular contracture, and need for replacement |
| Body Contouring | Removes excess fat from other areas of the body for a more sculpted appearance |
| Minimal Scarring | Uses tiny needle access sites, resulting in less visible scarring |
Limitations of Breast Fat Glue Transplantation
While breast fat glue transplantation has many benefits, it also has some limitations that patients should be aware of.
Limited Size Increase
One of the main limitations is that it can only provide a relatively small increase in breast size. If a patient desires a more significant increase, such as more than ½ cup size, breast augmentation with implants may be a better option. As mentioned in the sources, autologous fat transfer can typically only achieve a ¼ to ½ cup - size increase.
Unpredictable Fat Survival
The body may absorb some of the transferred fat cells, which means that the final results may not be as predictable as with breast implants. Some patients may require multiple procedures to achieve their desired breast volume. For example, many patients choose to have touch - ups until the ideal breast volume is achieved.
Potential 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). Additionally, lumps, nodules, and oil cysts may occur in the breasts, which can confound mammography and routine breast cancer surveillance.
The limitations are summarized in the following table:
| Limitation | Description |
|---|---|
| Limited Size Increase | Can only achieve a relatively small increase in breast size |
| Unpredictable Fat Survival | The body may absorb some of the transferred fat cells, requiring multiple procedures in some cases |
| Potential Donor Site Issues | May cause irregularities in the donor site and lumps in the breasts |
Ideal Candidates for Breast Fat Glue Transplantation
Not all women are suitable candidates for breast fat glue transplantation. Ideal candidates typically have the following characteristics:
- Desire a Small Increase in Breast Size: Women who want to enhance their breast volume by approximately ¼ to ½ cup size are good candidates. For example, patients who are looking for a subtle enhancement rather than a dramatic change.
- Have Sufficient Donor Fat: There must be enough excess fat in other areas of the body, such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks, to harvest for the procedure. Ideally, women should have a body mass index (BMI) of below 25 kg/m², although some surgeons, like Dr. Daniel del Vecchio, can help leaner patients achieve their goals by advising them to gain a few pounds before the procedure.
- Good Overall Health: Candidates should be in good general health, be non - smokers, and have no personal or family history of breast disease. They should also have normal mammogram results.
- Realistic Expectations: It is essential for patients to have realistic expectations about the results of the procedure. As mentioned earlier, fat transfer can only provide a limited increase in breast size, and the results may not be as predictable as with implants.
Top Plastic Surgery Hospitals and Surgeons in New York City for Breast Fat Glue Transplantation
Dr. Kolker
Dr. Kolker is an experienced plastic surgeon in New York City. He offers fat transfer breast augmentation as an alternative to traditional breast augmentation with implants. His patients have reported high satisfaction rates, with testimonials such as “I could not believe my eyes. Dr. Kolker had done something all other surgeons had told me was not possible. He made the impossible, possible.” He 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.
Mount Sinai
Mount Sinai's plastic surgeons have extensive experience in performing breast augmentation, including the natural fill® fat transfer technique. They use advanced 3D imaging technology to help patients visualize how their larger breasts will look before surgery. The surgeons at Mount Sinai will also help patients choose the best option for them, whether it's breast implants or fat transfer, based on their body type and desired outcome.
Dr. David Cangello
Board - certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Cangello is an expert in fat transfer techniques. He creates long - lasting results that blend in seamlessly with the patient's natural shape and body contour. Ideal candidates for his breast fat transfer procedure often have naturally small breasts, asymmetrical breasts, or breasts that have lost shape or volume due to factors such as pregnancy, aging, or weight fluctuations. He offers a personalized approach to each patient, working with them to identify the best donor area and creating a treatment plan that meets their needs.
Plastic Surgery Institute of New York
The plastic surgery team at the Plastic Surgery Institute of New York (Manhattan, NY) performs fat transfer breast augmentation using the best in class techniques. They work directly with each patient to actualize their post - procedural goals. Their triple - board certified plastic surgeon will explain all the surgical options during the initial consultation and conduct routine diagnostic tests to ensure the patient is a suitable candidate for the procedure.
Dr. Steven Wallach
Dr. Steven Wallach offers fat transfer breast augmentation as a safe, natural, and permanent option for breast enhancement in New York City. He has a thorough approach to the procedure, from the pre - operative consultation, which includes guiding patients through the preparation process, to the actual surgery, which involves a three - step process of liposuction, purification, and injection. He also provides clear timelines for the recovery process and post - operative care.
Dr. Antell
Dr. Antell's fat transfer breast augmentation in NYC aims to achieve a naturally enhanced, balanced, curving, feminine physique. He carefully selects the donor sites on the patient's body to help them achieve a sculpted, hourglass figure. During the procedure, he ensures the preservation of as many fat cells as possible and creates an ideal fullness, symmetry, and aesthetic appearance in the breasts. His patients appreciate his attention to detail and the natural - looking results he provides.
Dr. Frederick N. Lukash
Dr. Frederick N. Lukash, a senior associate at Long Island Plastic Surgical Group and New York Plastic Surgical Group, is redefining breast augmentation with fat transfer techniques. He utilizes the brava system of external expansion to place fat into an enlarged breast space with precision and safety. This technique is especially beneficial for those with abnormally shaped breasts, those who do not want breast implants, and women facing breast reconstruction after mastectomy.
Dr. Daniel del Vecchio
Internationally known for his exceptional work in fat transplantation, Dr. Daniel del Vecchio is a pioneer in breast fat grafting. He has been performing this procedure for over 15 years and has pioneered several innovative methods, such as the expansion vibration lipo filling (EVL) and simultaneous implant exchange with fat (SIEF) technique. His EVL approach is considered the safest and best way to insert fat in large amounts, and he can help patients of all shapes and sizes achieve their aesthetic goals.
Recovery Process
The recovery process after breast fat glue transplantation varies from patient to patient but generally has the following characteristics:
- Immediate Post - Operative: After the procedure, patients will have compression bandages around their breasts and liposuction sites to prevent swelling and maintain the shape of the new breasts and body contour. They may experience some pain and discomfort, especially in the donor area, but the surgeon will prescribe pain medication to manage this. For example, Dr. Cangello prescribes pain medication to ensure patients feel as comfortable as possible during the initial recovery period.
- First Few Days: The donor sites may feel tender, and there may be bruising and swelling on the grafted areas. Patients are usually advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities. Most patients can return to work within a few days to a week, depending on the nature of their job.
- Weeks to Months: The majority of the swelling and bruising will resolve within two weeks, but the complete healing process may take several months. Patients may need to wear a compression garment and surgical bra for a period of time to help with healing. They should also follow their surgeon's instructions regarding diet, exercise, and follow - up appointments. It may take several months to see the final results as the swelling goes down and the body adjusts to the transferred fat.
Conclusion
Breast fat glue transplantation is an appealing option for women in New York City who are looking for a natural way to enhance their breast size and shape. It offers several benefits, such as natural results, no implant - related issues, body contouring, and minimal scarring. However, it also has limitations, including a limited size increase and unpredictable fat survival. Ideal candidates for this procedure are those who desire a small increase in breast size, have sufficient donor fat, are in good overall health, and have realistic expectations. There are many experienced plastic surgeons and hospitals in New York City that offer this service, each with their own unique techniques and approaches.
If you are considering breast fat glue transplantation, it is crucial to consult with a board - certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate your individual situation, discuss your goals, and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. We encourage you to reach out to one of the top surgeons mentioned in this article to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards achieving your aesthetic goals.
