When patients decide they’re interested in a breast augmentation, they begin to research the different sizes, procedures, and implants. The most popular type of augmentation is the placement of silicone breast implants. But what about an augmentation WITHOUT implants?
A breast augmentation without implants refers to fat grafting or fat enhancement injections. In this procedure, fat removed from stubborn areas – such as the thighs, abdomen, or buttocks – gets injected to the chest.
What’s the difference?
With fat grafting, Dr. Capizzi uses the patient’s own tissue instead of a silicone or saline breast implant. Liposuction harvests fat cells from another part of the patient’s body in a way that preserves the body’s natural proportions and symmetry. This technique has a rapid recovery and minimal pain. With implants, the patient will have two small scars from the incisions. In this case, there are no incisions.
A breast augmentation using fat grafting produces natural results with a small increase in breast size. This procedure is ideal for patients seeking an increase in breast size by about one cup size. The complication rate for breast augmentations without implants is low. This is because without implants, there is no chance for rupture. The breasts will look and feel natural, and the procedure has a good safety record.
Is there a downside?
While fat grafting to the breasts has advantages like the removal of fat from stubborn areas and a low complication rate, there are a few disadvantages:
- Unpredictable results: There is no standard technique for a breast augmentation without implants, meaning that desired results aren’t guaranteed
- Not everyone is a candidate: The patient must have enough spare fat for transfer
- Possible volume loss: The body can reabsorb injected fat over time and the breast may lose some volume
- Fat necrosis. This refers to fat hardening into small masses, which is sometimes interpreted as cancer. Fat necrosis can persist for a short time or can be permanent.
While fat grafting will address a lack of breast volume, the patient may still need a breast lift to achieve their desired look.
A breast augmentation without implants has advantages and disadvantages as with any surgical procedure. At the end of the day, the decision to augment the breasts with or without implants is up to the patient and their desired look.
Can you combine fat grafting with implants?
Yes! Fat grafting is an especially good fit for women over 30 who are experiencing sagging, or who may have had more than one pregnancy. Combining fat grafting with implants adds a bit more natural volume to the breasts and can be precisely placed to add volume to enhance cleavage or upper pole fullness.
If you’re interested in finding out if you’re a good candidate for a breast augmentation without implants, come in for a consultation! Dr. Capizzi and his surgical team would be happy to discuss your options with you. Contact our office online throughout our virtual consultation form, or give our office a call at 704-655-8988.