Fat grafting is a technique for breast augmentation that involves taking excess fat from other parts of the body, purifying it, and injecting it into the breasts to give them more volume with a natural appearance.
Also known as fat transfer or fat injection, fat grafting is a safe and long-lasting procedure that is often considered as a supplement or even an alternative to breast implants. The results of fat grafting are natural-looking; however, it is also a fairly complex procedure, since the integrity of the fat cell membranes must be kept intact.
AM I A CANDIDATE FOR FAT GRAFTING?
Fat grafting is a breast-augmentation technique that provides a subtle enhancement in breast size; it is an ideal option for women who are seeking a relatively small increase, or for women who have asymmetrical cup sizes.
An additional benefit to fat grafting is that it involves taking excess from your own body and does not involve any foreign substances. If you have any known allergies to implant materials, you may be an ideal candidate for fat transfer.
In order to be a candidate for fat grafting, you must have a donor site from which excess fat can be taken, such as the thighs or abdomen. Your board-certified plastic surgeon can help you identify the best donor site.
With any plastic surgery procedure, it is always important to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon that has extensive experience and knowledge in their field of study. Fat grafting is no exception; though it may sound like a simple process, careful cultivation of the fat cells is of the utmost importance to achieve optimal and lasting results.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR CONSULTATION
At the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago, our board-certified plastic surgeons have performed hundreds of fat-grafting procedures successfully and safely. Our focus is on natural results and the newest, most innovative techniques. When you choose us, your consultation will involve reviewing every step of the process, all the way through recovery, so that you have a comprehensive understanding of what fat grafting entails.
You and your plastic surgeon will review your medical history to ensure that you are an ideal candidate for fat grafting. Your plastic surgeon will examine and measure your breasts, including the size, shape, skin quality and nipple position. Photographs are usually taken at this stage so your plastic surgeon can perform a full evaluation and work with you to determine the best course of treatment to reach your ideal aesthetic goals.
You and your plastic surgeon will discuss any and all aspects of the procedure, through recovery, as well as any potential risks associated with breast augmentation. If you have any questions about any of these factors, you should not hesitate to ask; the consultation is the best time to have all your questions answered.
HOW IS FAT GRAFTING PERFORMED?
First, you and your surgeon will determine the donor site, from which excess fat will be removed. After a general anesthetic is administered, the surgeon will make a small incision in the donor area and carefully extract fat cells using a cannula and syringe.
If necessary, the extracted fat will be processed using a centrifuge or other filtration technique to isolate the fat cells. The fat cells are then transferred to smaller syringes to be injected into the breasts.
The injection process is repeated until the desired results are achieved. Since this process also involves shaping and contouring, there is an artistic aspect to fat grafting in order to create an aesthetic breast, which is why it is important to choose an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon who understands your aesthetic goals.
Fat may be injected after an implant is placed to improve overall shape and contour, if the fat transfer is being performed as an adjunct to implants. Finally, a bandage is placed over the grafted area. In some cases, a drain may need to be placed at the donor site.
RECOVERY AFTER FAT GRAFTING
The only incisions resulting from fat grafting are at the donor sites, and these incisions are typically very small and produce minimal scarring. If possible, your surgeon will attempt to place the incisions in well-hidden areas of the body.
Swelling and bruising of both the donor site and breasts should go down significantly between the first and second week after the procedure. Be prepared to wait at least seven to ten days before returning to your normal level of activity. By the third week, swelling should be mostly gone and results should be apparent.
POTENTIAL RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH FAT GRAFTING
Complications from breast augmentation with fat grafting are infrequent, but there are associated risks with any surgical procedure, even those that are noninvasive. Potential risks associated with fat grafting may include:
- Adverse reaction to anesthesia
- Changes in skin sensation
- Infection
- Hematoma (blood clot)
- Scarring
At the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago, we take every precaution possible to minimize risk by using only the safest, most innovative techniques. You can also reduce risk by adhering strictly to any instructions that your plastic surgeon may give you, both before and after your procedure.
HOW MUCH DOES FAT GRAFTING COST?
The cost associated with breast augmentation by fat grafting varies widely—not only according to your geographic location and surgeon, but also your particular goals and the extent of the procedure. Your plastic surgeon will discuss all associated costs during your consultation. Fat grafting is considered a cosmetic procedure, and is rarely covered by health insurance providers.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION
If you believe you are a candidate for fat grafting breast augmentation or would like to learn more about the procedure and how it is performed, schedule a consultation with the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago. We will be happy to speak with you and perform an evaluation to see if it is a right fit for you and your aesthetic goals.
All surgical procedures by the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago are performed at top hospitals in Chicago and CMS or AAAASF-certified surgical centers for safety.
PATIENT REVIEWS
For a long time I disliked my large crooked schnoz due to a sports injury and middle eastern genetics. However, I long hesitated due to the cost and my worry that it wouldn't turn out right. Fortunately I met Dr. Patel, who is very highly recommended by a number of referring physicians I'd spoken with. Dr. Patel put me completely at ease with his excellent bedside manner and expertise. I decided to take the plunge before my 40th birthday and go through with it, and I am so glad I did. He did a beautiful job! No complications and an overall wonderful experience. The improvement has been dramatic - a cute perfect nose. My husband and friends comment that I could model now! I will be returning for a tummy tuck for my post-mommy muffin top.
I had a great experience with Dr.Patel. I met with several doctors prior to meeting Dr.Patel and instantly felt that he was the right choice for both my Septoplasty and Rhinoplasty. He has a great attitude and focuses on improving the traits we already have, rather than making major and unnecessary changes.
I had been thinking about getting a breast augmentation for years and finally decided it was time. I am ecstatic with the result and would recommend it to anyone searching for larger and fuller breasts. Dr. Patel was recommended to me by a friend and I am very happy that I chose him as my surgeon.
Dr. Patel is an excellent doctor - even though he is a younger doctor he treats his patients like doctors used to. Very caring and concerned about the well being of his patients. He would check up on me regularly after surgery and I am very thankful for his work. It's been 4 months since my rhinoplasty and I look like a better version of myself, not a completely different person. I am very thankful for his work and would recommend him highly to anyone searching for a down to earth and caring doc.
I had liposuction of the abdomen, flanks, and back. My waist line a 32 and now it is a 28 3 months post op. I love the new contour of my body that I have always been dreaming of. Dr. Patel is fantastic. He explained the procedure in detail and what I should expect. There were no surprises and my recovery was smooth. 10 stars if I could.
What a fabulous boutique plastic surgery office in downtown Chicago. Love Dr. Patel and staff.
Dr. Patel and staff were more than amazing. I had a cosmetic procedure 6 months ago and I can't say enough about how wonderful my whole experience was with this office. I look and feel natural, which was my goal from the very start and why I chose Dr. Patel. I would definitely recommend him to friends and family.
My visit with Dr. Patel was my first breast augmentation consultation. I was nervous but I did my due diligence researching the best plastic surgeons in Chicago. Dr. Patel blew me away with his down to earth demeanor and bed side manner. He was very informative and explained to me what would best fit what I was hoping for. After my consultation, I was at ease with the whole process and the plan. There aren’t words to express how grateful and happy I am with your expertise, attention to detail, and perfection. You helped me choose the right size for my body. I am elated with my new body and improved self image. Thank you so much for being so kind and available for me after the surgery.
Perfection. I had an excellent experience with Dr. Patel. Dr. Patel is a warm and personable doctor. He is meticulous with his techniques and very patient. I feel like I asked a million questions but he was patient with me and answered all of them. Amazing results. I highly recommend!!
I have a demanding schedule and the Dr. and Staff scheduled me in and did a great job. Above and beyond my expectations. Would highly recommend.
Dr. Patel is amazing!! I was hesitant to get plastic surgery, but he put me at ease and I couldn't be happier with the procedure I had. He obviously has tons of experience and knew exactly how to help me. I'll definitely go back, and have recommended him to all my friends. Plus, his office is beautiful!!
Dr. Patel is extremely professional and highly skilled. I would absolutely recommend Dr. Patel to anyone considering plastic surgery. Dr. Patel listens to what your personal goals are and then talks through realistic expectations. Additionally, Dr. Patel's office and location reflects his professionalism towards excellence. If you are considering plastic surgery, I recommend that you contact Dr. Patel!
Top notch place! I had fillers placed in my lips and I love the results. Not overdone, just perfect. If you are looking for natural results, this is the plastic surgeon to go to in Chicago.
Dr. Patel and staff were awesome. He knows the best treatments for each person whatever the age and ethnicity. He is very meticulous and professional. I didn't have to wait to be seen and the office runs smoothly. He took the time to explain the different procedures that would help me the most. The receptionist is very kind and informative and the office is beautiful. 5 stars all around. I have sent my friends to Dr. Patel and will definitely return in the future.
Amazing Amazing experience. I had fillers in my nose for a non surgical rhinoplasty and my nose looks like I had a surgery. My results look perfect. I don't have a bump on my nose and my tip is not droopy anymore. Dr. Patel took his time and explained the entire procedure. He periodically showed me the results to put me at ease. Also I hate needles and the procedure was painless. I have a beautiful nose without having had surgery. Extremely happy!!
Dr. Patel is an amazing and talented Plastic Surgeon with alot of experience. I met with over 8 different Surgeons and after meeting Dr. Patel I knew he was the right fit for my procedure and I couldnt be happier!
Extremely happy with my results. Dr Patel was very informative and took his time explaining everything in detail.
If you're looking for someone who knows how to inject, definitely see Dr. Patel. He's professional, very knowledgabel and the office is super clean and sleek. Unlike most places in Chicago, he doesn't dilute his botox and mine always last up to 5 months. I've been to so many places in Chicago and my services with Dr. Patel always stands above the rest.
Absolutely gorgeous office, warm and friendly administrator at the front desk, and he was so patient as I asked questions. Injections didn’t hurt and I was in and out in less than 20 minutes. Will absolutely be back.
Excellent dr. Loved the individual attention. Beyond my expectations. Would highly recommend.
I had a rhinoplasty by Dr. Patel a few years ago and recently found out he moved and opened up his new practice. I just want to let people out there know that he is an amazing doctor and is committed to his patient's well being. My nose looks amazing and continues to look amazing after 3 years from surgery. The surgery changed my life and improved my confidence beyond my wildest dreams. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for plastic surgery in Chicago or a plastic surgeon who is excellent with noses.
Dr. Patel was fantastic! He was very professional and took time to listen to my questions and explain everything to me during my appointment. His office is very clean and Samantha was a sweetheart. I strongly recommend Dr. Patel for any procedure you need. He is a perfectionist and the outcomes could not have been better. He is the only one I will go to.
I had 2 botched nose jobs in the past where my nose was collapsed and I couldn’t breath. My nose looked so deformed that I didn’t want to leave my house. I had numerous consultations but wanted to find a dr who had experience with cases like mine. My primary dr referred me to Dr. Patel and after my consultation I knew he was the right person to fix my nose. He explained the procedure so that I could understand and told me about how he had to use my rib to fix my nose. I was terrified but fast forward 1 year and my nose is straight and has never looked this good. Most importantly I can breath. The surgery has changed my life for the better. I highly recommend this dr for any surgery of the face.
Love this doctor and place. Had my lips plumped up and couldn't be happier.
Best plastic surgeon in Chicago. He notices things that most don't and offers a reasonable way to fix them! I had a facial procedure and a tummy tuck. Best decisions I made. I feel like a new me.
I had a great experience with Dr. Patel and his staff. His office is beautiful, the staff are professional, and the service top notch. 5+ stars. I will be going back for my maintenance botox and fillers.
I love my new breasts! Next up, my botox and facial fillers!
I have been going here for the past few months for touch ups here and there. This place is about excellence and taking the best care of their patients. I always feel like I am getting the best care from my phone call to schedule an appointment, to my consultation and all the way through to checking out. Dr. Patel is an amazing doctor who truly cares about his patients.
Before finding the right plastic surgeon for me I had about 5 consultations with surgeons in Chicago and elsewhere. I met Dr. Patel and had a great feeling that I would be in good hands. The consultation and our conversation just felt natural and I knew he was the right doctor for me. It was an added bonus that he is a perfectionist, everything you want in a plastic surgeon. I had a face and breast cosmetic procedure and my results are amazing. All the small details we discussed were addressed. He did an unbelievable job and I am so grateful. I highly recommend him if you are looking for an honest and talented plastic surgeon.
If I could give more than 5 stars I would. In this day an age with medicine becoming so indifferent, callous, and corporate; this practice is a refreshing reminder of how things used to be and should be. I was referred to Dr. Patel by another doctor and I can't thank them enough for the referral. There are so many options out there and there is no way to know who is good and who isn't. My consultation went very well, Dr. Patel addressed all my concerns and gave me his recommendation based on his expertise and my interests. After surgery, the office staff called me to check up on me. I felt like a had a team of people supporting me through my recovery. My results look amazing and I recovered quicker than I imagined. I recommend this practice to anyone looking for a top plastic surgeon in Chicago.
BEST CARE TEAM
