Comparing Breast Implants And Fat Grafting

Procedure:

Breast augmentation with breast implants is often done with silicone or saline implants to increase breast size.

An incision is made in a location that helps minimize scarring, such as under the breast, under the armpit, or around the edge of the areola, and the soft implant is inserted. The incision is then sutured closed and allowed to heal.

Breast augmentation with fat grafting, on the other hand, is a special method that can increase breast size without using saline or silicone implants. When fat grafting is used to increase breast size, fat is first removed from a portion of the body using liposuction. Generally, fat from the abdomen, buttocks, and thighs is used. By injecting this fat into your breasts, the surgeon can enlarge them and fill in areas that may be uneven or curved.

Expected results:

Breast augmentation with breast implants not only increases breast size but also improves breast shape, symmetry, and projection. The effects of implants last 15 to 20 years. These implants usually do not need to be replaced unless symptoms of pain, discomfort, or hardness occur in the breast, or if they get ruptured in an accident.

Breast implants are a good option for women who are very thin or have a low body fat distribution (which precludes fat grafting).

For many people, the appeal of fat grafting is that it is more natural. Not only does this mean there are no foreign materials in the body, but it can also create a more natural-looking augmentation. It has two benefits - you get the breast enlargement you want and a contoured body by removing unwanted fat from another area of ​​your body.

Since fat removal is determined by the availability of fat in the body, fat grafting breast augmentation is limited to certain sizes. Mostly small to moderate increases in cup size can be expected. However, many women are happy with a slight increase in volume and are satisfied with fat graft surgery.

Recovery:

While it takes time to recover from both procedures, it takes longer to recover after augmentation with breast implants compared to fat grafting. This is because implant surgery involves cutting and restructuring the chest muscle, while fat grafting only requires small incisions for liposuction and injections.

In both cases, returning to your daily routine and normal activities takes a few weeks.

Remember to follow all post-operative instructions carefully and attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to ensure optimal results and minimal complications.

Results:

Breast implants produce a reliable and predictable size change. With implants, the consultation process involves decisions determining the procedure's outcome. Discuss with your surgeon the shape, size, and appearance of the implant, as well as the incision site and placement method.

Breast fat grafting allows even greater customization. It can address specific areas of the breasts, correct asymmetries, and smooth out bony imperfections in the chest wall. Stem cells that migrate with the fat also improve the quality and appearance of overlying skin. Breast fat grafting is the procedure for you if you want a small to moderate enhancement and want the results to feel and look natural.

The results from both procedures last a long time but get affected by factors like age, weight changes, and gravity.

Both procedures have risks and benefits that should be considered before making a decision.  It is important to consult with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon to determine which option is best for you. Ultimately, the goal of breast augmentation surgery is to help patients feel confident and happy with their appearance.

Dr. Vasant Gholave of Arra Aesthetics, Pune, is a Board-Certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in both breast augmentation procedures. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your options and create a personalized surgical plan.