Breast Lipofilling (Fat Grafting)

Breast lipofilling—also known as fat grafting or fat transfer—is a surgical technique that allows for the augmentation or restoration of breast volume in cases of mammary atrophy, breast asymmetry, or underdevelopment of the chest.

It is also an effective option for reconstructing defects caused by lumpectomies (breast-conserving surgery for cancer) or for improving breast contour when the skin coverage over a breast implant is very thin.

During the procedure, fat is harvested through liposuction from a donor area—usually the abdomen or flanks. The fat is then processed to purify it, and finally injected into the breast according to the desired aesthetic or reconstructive outcome.

Any patient presenting a breast contour irregularity, seeking a moderate breast augmentation, or aiming to restore partial breast defects caused by previous surgeries.

Smoking may be a relative contraindication, as it reduces the survival of the fat graft in the breasts.

Breast lipofilling can be combined with other breast procedures, such as implant removal surgery with or without an associated mastopexy, implant replacement, breast lift, or breast reduction. It can also be combined with facial procedures like eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) or a facelift.

Additionally, it can be performed alongside body contouring surgeries such as liposuction (using fat harvested from areas like the abdomen, flanks, back, or thighs), abdominoplasty, or other body contouring procedures.

Studies have shown that there is no increased risk of developing a malignant lesion in the breast related to fat grafting or lipofilling. Breast lipofilling or fat transfer is a completely safe procedure, both in healthy breasts and in breasts with a history of surgery or breast cancer.