The transferred fat in the breasts can last for a lifetime. However, it is important to note that not all of the transferred fat will survive. Typically, about 30-50% of the fat will be reabsorbed by the body over the course of 3-6 months. This is because the fat cells need to form a blood supply in order to survive in the new location. If the blood supply is not adequate, the fat cells will die and be reabsorbed.
The amount of fat that is reabsorbed can vary depending on a number of factors, including the patient’s age, health, and the technique used by the surgeon. However, in most cases, the remaining fat cells will be permanently established and will last for a lifetime.
Here are some factors that can affect the survival of transferred fat:
- The quality of the fat cells. Fat cells that are healthy and well-vascularized are more likely to survive.
- The technique used by the surgeon. Surgeons who use a micro-fat grafting technique are more likely to achieve better results, as this technique allows for the transfer of smaller, more viable fat cells.
- The patient’s health. Patients who are healthy and have a good blood supply are more likely to have their fat cells survive.
- The patient’s weight. Patients who lose or gain a significant amount of weight after the procedure are more likely to experience fat reabsorption.
If you are considering fat transfer breast augmentation, it is important to talk to your surgeon about the risks and benefits of the procedure. They can help you determine if fat transfer is the right option for you and can give you an estimate of how long the results will last.
The longevity of the transferred fat in the breasts can vary from person to person, and not all of the transferred fat will survive in its new location. On average, the survival rate of transferred fat is estimated to be around 60% to 80%.
During breast fat transfer, the plastic surgeon carefully injects the purified fat into multiple layers of breast tissue. Some of the fat cells establish a blood supply and integrate into the surrounding tissue, while others are naturally reabsorbed by the body. The fat cells that successfully establish a blood supply and survive long-term can provide permanent augmentation to the breasts.
The initial swelling and volume after the fat transfer may make the breasts appear fuller than the final outcome. As the swelling subsides and the body absorbs some of the transferred fat, the final result becomes more apparent.
While some patients may retain the fullness achieved with fat transfer for several years or longer, others may experience a gradual decrease in volume over time. The long-term results can also be influenced by factors such as weight fluctuations, lifestyle, and individual variations in fat metabolism.
To optimize the fat survival rate and ensure long-lasting results, it’s crucial to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully. Maintaining a stable weight and leading a healthy lifestyle can also contribute to the longevity of the transferred fat.
If you are considering breast fat transfer, it’s essential to have a thorough consultation with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. Your surgeon can discuss the expected outcomes, potential risks, and considerations specific to your individual case to help you make an informed decision about breast augmentation with fat transfer.