10 Jun Fat Reabsorption, Cysts & Infections: Why Implants Are Better Than Fat Grafting Breast Augmentation
Choosing The Right Cosmetic Procedure
Breast augmentation is an excellent procedure that restores confidence by improving breast size, curves, and volume. The thousands of women opting for breast augmentation must choose between implants or fat grafting. Both procedures, when performed by a board-certified surgeon, bring fantastic results. However, fat grafting breast augmentation may produce unwanted risks, making implants a better option.
What is fat grafting breast augmentation?
Fat grafting takes the patient’s existing body fat to enhance the breasts using a two-step process. The surgeon will use liposuction to extract fat from the hips, abdomen, or buttocks. The fat cells are then processed and transferred to the breasts. The surgeon will inject the fat in strategic positions to give the breasts a subtle, natural look. Fat grafting has some added benefits, like helping to contour the body. At the same time, fat reabsorption, cysts, and infections can occur.
Back into the body
The body is constantly creating and reabsorbing fat cells. The fat extracted and transferred to the breasts are no exception. Surgeons warn that up to 50% of fat transferred to the breast is reabsorbed by the body. The fat is taken by the lymphatic system, processed by the liver and kidneys, then excreted. This process occurs since there is not enough oxygenated blood in the area for the new fat cells. Over time, reabsorbed fat causes the breasts to lose volume and symmetry, reducing patient satisfaction.
Watch out for cysts
A lack of oxygenated blood can also lead to fat necrosis. The fat cells die, making this the most significant risk to fat grafting breast augmentation. These dead cells can form into calcified lumps or oily cysts. These cysts can sometimes be painful, causing bruising or skin discoloration. In some cases, cysts may slightly alter the shape of the breasts, requiring additional surgery. Over time, cysts can be confused for breast cancer lumps, increasing the stress of women.
Infections are possible
Infections are rare but happen at a greater rate with fat grafting compared to implants. Fat necrosis can create infected tissue, leading to unwanted side effects. For instance, fat transfer can cause an abscess, leading to swelling, redness, and breast pain. There is also the possibility of bacterial infection. Women with weakened immune systems are especially at risk. Look for the symptoms and speak with the surgeon immediately.
Which one works best?
Fat grafting is effective but has several drawbacks. Choosing implants is a safer, more effective option. Implants are minimally invasive and provide symmetrical volume. The implants also last for over a decade with no substantial changes to the breast’s appearance. Changes in the breast shape and appearance can happen with fat transfer. The breast augmentation journey should be smooth and the results are fulfilling. The chances of achieving these positive outcomes are greater with implants.