NATURAL BREAST AUGMENTATION (NBA)

Natural breast augmentation aka fat transfer breast augmentation

There is increasing evidence that breast implants can cause implant associated lymphoma or ALCL (anaplastic large cell lymphoma). They can also cause capsular contracture, tissue thinning, breast ligament stretches, and deformity to the chest fall. Fat grafting to the breast avoids these risks. It will not damage the body by thinning the tissues.

WHAT IS BREAST AUGMENTATION WITH FAT TRANSFER?

Fat transfer is a natural technique using your own cells. It is a powerful tool to replace areas where fat is needed. Fat transfer has a dual benefit, both improving the donor site, and transplanting the fat to where it is needed. Fat take survives long term, studies show a retention rate long term of 50-80%.

Each cycle of fat transfer aims to increase breast volume by one cup size. Fat transfer to the area helps restore volume lost by gravity, weight fluctuations and breast feeding.

Fat can be harvested from the donor site of your choice, these include:

  • Lower abdomen or tummy area
  • Upper abdomen or tummy area
  • The flank area or the love handles
  • Inside of thighs
  • Inside of thighs
  • Outside of thighs

The fat is removed using a thin cannula using a 2mm incision. The fat is gently suctioned without using heat, ultrasound or laser as these can damage these delicate cells.

The fat is then processed to allow maximum cell survival and maximal graft take.

The fat is then infused as microribbons to the areas where you need it the most. These microribbons distributed as a net improves the contact of each fat cell to a source of blood supply. The fat “takes” by it establishing a blood supply through a process of blood vessel ingrowth and integration. This allows the fat to survive long term.

THE BENEFITS OF FAT TRANSFER INCLUDE

  • It is natural, using your own tissues
  • It includes plasma (PRP)
  • It includes stem cells which may repopulate the area with new cells
  • Is in plentiful supply once harvested
  • Has a retention rate long term of 50-80%
  • Improved appearance of donor site
  • It can be repeated if needed

FAQs

How can I prepare for surgery?

When you decide to proceed, there are a few things you can do to prepare:

  1. Eat healthily by avoiding excessively fatty foods and foods high in sugar.
  2. Stop smoking as this significantly increases complication rates. No smoking for 6 weeks prior and 6 weeks after surgery.
  3. Stop all blood thinners such as warfarin, Plavix, aspirin unless discussed with Dr. Hadi. Also, avoid over-the-counter medications that may thin the blood.
  4. Shower with a medicated soap like phisohex, sebomed, or sapoderm the night before or morning of surgery to reduce bacteria on the skin.
  5. Fast (do not eat anything) at least 6 hours prior to surgery, as instructed by Kareena Hospital.
  6. Wear loose, comfortable, dark clothing and remove all jewelry.

How long will the operation take?

You will need to be fasted at least six hours before surgery. The operation will take around two-four hours and is performed under general anaesthetic. A Specialist Anesthetist will be present during the operation. This procedure is performed at the Swan Clinic or in hospital.

How long will I stay in the hospital?

The surgery is usually performed as day surgery or overnight stay. You'll receive antibiotics and pain relief tablets. Contact Dr. Hadi if you have concerns postoperatively.

Do I need to wear a post-operative garment?

You'll be provided with a garment depending on the doner site which you will wear for 6 weeks. You do not need to wear a bra for 6 weeks as we do not want to compress the fat.

What about the sutures?

Absorbable sutures are used to close the small incisions.

When can I shower?

You can shower 2 days post operatively.

When can I drive? When can I exercise?

Do not drive for 24hrs after a general anaesthetic. You can drive once comfortable, generally after one week. Gentle walking after 2 weeks and return to exercise at 4-6 weeks.

When can I go back to work?

Depending on your work's physical demands, take 1-2 weeks off before returning to work.