Is Fat Transfer to the Breast Suitable for Women with Small Breasts?

Breast implants remain exceptionally popular among women looking to increase the size of their naturally small breasts or replace breast volume that was lost due to pregnancy, aging, weight fluctuation, or another life event. Still, some women may not be interested in synthetic breast implants or may prefer a more natural and convenient approach to breast enhancement that does not require as long of a recovery period. For these women, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Alex Mesbahi and the dedicated team at Mesbahi Plastic Surgery in McLean, VA offer a more natural alternative to breast augmentation with a fat transfer to the breasts. Here, we'll answer common breast fat transfer FAQs, including whether women with naturally small breasts may be considered good candidates for this minimally invasive breast augmentation solution.

What is a fat transfer to the breast?

Also known as fat grafting or a breast fat transfer, breast augmentation with fat transfer is a less invasive option for adding volume to the breasts compared with traditional implant-based breast augmentation. During a fat transfer to the breast, Dr. Mesbahi first harvests healthy fat cells from an area of the body where the patient has excess fat to spare, such as the abdomen, flanks, or buttocks. The fat is then injected into the breasts and strategically distributed to achieve a natural-looking, fuller new shape and size. Unlike breast augmentation with implants, a breast fat transfer does not require significant incisions or scarring, and patients typically enjoy a shorter recovery period and a dramatically more natural-looking and feeling outcome.

Can a fat transfer enlarge naturally small breasts?

Yes. A fat transfer breast augmentation can be a suitable option for women with naturally small breasts — particularly for those patients who are interested in a subtle size increase, as there is a limit to how much fat can be transferred during the procedure. It is also important for patients considering fat transfer to the breast to have enough available fat elsewhere on the body to harvest and transfer, which Dr. Mesbahi will evaluate during an initial consultation. One notable consideration for women with small breasts considering a fat transfer vs. breast implants is that the results of a fat transfer often look and feel more natural compared with implants in women with little native breast tissue.

Is a fat transfer breast augmentation permanent?

While fat transfer procedures can provide results that last for years, decades, or even longer, patients should keep in mind that the outcome is not necessarily considered lifelong. Although the transferred fat cells will remain in their new location indefinitely, they can change in size over time — particularly with certain lifestyle habits or life events— and age-related variables can also alter a patient's original results. To help preserve your breast fat grafting results for as long as possible, be sure to:

• Avoid significant weight fluctuation
• Maintain a stable, healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise
• Wear supporting bras and undergarments
• Do not smoke
• Defer breast fat transfer until after you're done having children and breastfeeding

With these healthy habits, you can help ensure your newly enhanced breasts stay consistent for years to come.

Self-conscious about your naturally small breasts but not interested in implants? Consider a fat transfer breast augmentation in Washington, D.C.

For women with naturally small breasts and little natural breast tissue, breast augmentation with implants may result in an undesirable look or feel, but a fat transfer to the breast can give patients the subtle, natural appearance and authentic breast texture they desire. Discover whether you may be a candidate for a breast fat transfer in McLean, VA by calling Mesbahi Plastic Surgery to schedule your breast augmentation consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Alex Mesbahi, and get one step closer to the sexier, more feminine figure you've been dreaming of today.