Breast augmentation mammoplasty can be performed using two main methods.
- Breast implants
- Fat transfer (also known as autologous fat grafting).
Each method has its own advantages, risks, and considerations, and the choice between them depends on individual preferences, goals, and medical suitability. Here’s a comparison of breast implants versus fat transfer to the breasts in augmentation mammoplasty surgery:
Breast Implants
Procedure: In breast augmentation mammoplasty with implants, silicone or saline implants are inserted into your breasts through incisions made in your breast crease. The procedure is done under a general anaesthetic in Double Bay Day Hospital or Waratah Private Hospital.
Volume: Implants come in various sizes, projections, materials, and shapes, allowing you and Dr Rastogi to create a customised breast shape and size.
Results: The results will vary between patients, and they will become visible after the healing process is complete. You will have initial swelling, which should eventually subside over several weeks.
Maintenance: Although we see our patients having their implants in for approximately 10-20 years, it is important to note that having implants will require revision surgery eventually in your lifetime. We recommend an ultrasound at the 5-year mark, 7-year mark, and then once every 2 years after 10 years.
Risks: Risks include poor scarring, infection, bleeding, and anaesthesia reactions, among others. Please click here for all potential risks associated with implants. At your consultation, Dr Rastogi will go through these in detail with you.
Suitability: This procedure may be suited to individuals wanting to increase the size or projection of their breasts. If unsure of your suitability, you can always send images to reception@rastogi.com.au.
Fat Transfer to Breasts
Procedure: Fat transfer involves liposuction to remove excess fat from one area of the body (like the abdomen or thighs), purifying the fat, and then injecting it into the breasts through small incisions approximately 4mm. The procedure can also be an additional surgery to implants, adding in smaller amounts to the breasts to further alter the shape.
Volume Control: It is limited by the amount of available donor fat, so significant size increases may not be possible in a single procedure for all patients. Your results and number of procedures will depend on your individual goals and surgical plan.
Results: The results may feel somewhat softer (compared to implants), as the material used is the patient’s own fat. Initial swelling is to be expected; however, it will subside over several weeks. Depending on the individual, you may achieve a 1 – 2 sizes increase in breast volume, which is an alternative option for those wanting to increase the size of their breasts without adding an implant. The results, however, are not guaranteed and will be different for each patient.
Maintenance: Generally, Dr Rastogi may achieve the size you want in one procedure. However, in some cases, a follow-up procedure may be required and will be noted to you at the time of consultation.
Risks: There is a risk of poor results, fat reabsorption, infection, and other complications. Please click here to read more about surgical risks.
Suitability: Fat transfer is often suitable for individuals who want a modest increase in breast size or are looking to correct minor irregularities in breast shape. Patients with low body fat may not be suitable, so we recommend that you send images to reception@rastogi.com.au, and our dedicated team will advise if you are an eligible candidate based on your images before booking a consultation.
The choice between breast implants and fat transfer depends on many factors. We welcome you to have a consultation with Dr Rastogi, discuss your aesthetic goals, and decide collectively what may be suited to you.
