Deciding to enhance your breasts is a highly personal choice, and selecting the best method requires careful consideration of your aesthetic goals, body type, and medical preferences. Breast augmentation offers two primary options: fat grafting (also called fat transfer) and breast implants. Each approach has distinct advantages, and understanding their differences can help you determine which is right for you. In this blog, the team of top breast surgeons at the Plastic Surgery Center share the most relevant factors.
What Is Fat Grafting?
Fat grafting for breast augmentation involves using liposuction to remove fat from areas like the abdomen, thighs, or flanks and transferring it to the breasts. This method enhances breast volume naturally while also contouring the donor area. Because this fat comes from your own body, there is no risk of rejection or implant-related complications.
Fat transfer is ideal for women who desire a modest increase in breast size—typically one cup size. The results look and feel natural, and there is no need for future implant maintenance or replacement. However, some of the transferred fat may be reabsorbed by the body, which means final volume retention can vary somewhat.
What Are Breast Implants?
Breast implants are a more traditional and widely used method for breast enhancement. Silicone or saline implants provide predictable volume and shape, allowing for a more significant size increase than fat transfer.
Implants offer long-lasting results and are well-suited for women who desire a noticeable enhancement. However, they require more long-term maintenance, as implants may need replacement over time.
Which Option Is Right for You?
- Choose fat grafting if you prefer a subtle, natural enhancement and have enough excess fat for transfer. This option also provides the benefit of body contouring.
- Choose implants if you want a more significant increase in breast size or desire a particular shape that may not be achievable with fat grafting alone.
Both procedures have unique benefits, and the best way to determine the right choice is through a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can help you reach a confident conclusion.
Schedule a Consultation
At the Plastic Surgery Center, our experienced team of cosmetic breast surgeons can guide you through your breast augmentation options and create a customized treatment plan based on your goals. We are fortunate to have some of Northern California’s most reputable plastic surgeons. Contact us today in Sacramento at 916-848-5780 or Granite Bay at 916-283-3623.
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