Restorative Techniques

Fat Grafting and Fat Injection for Breast Reconstruction

Fat grafting (or as it is also known, fat transfer, fat injection or lipoinjection) has long been used by plastic surgeons to smooth sunken areas on the face and to add fullness to the cheeks and lips. Fat grafting can also be used to refine the results of breast reconstruction surgery. This technique can be used to:

• Add volume to a breast reconstructed with natural tissue
• Smooth areas that have an irregular contour or are depressed, or to better sculpt the shape of a reconstructed breast
• Camouflage an implant used for reconstruction
• Help restore a more natural transition between the upper chest and a reconstructed breast.

Fat grafting is an outpatient surgical procedure that involves moving fat from areas like the waist, abdomen or buttocks to a reconstructed breast. This technique involves harvesting fat by means of a gentile liposuction-like approach, after which the fat cells are injected into the area being treated. Only tiny incisions are necessary as the entire procedure uses only very narrow canulas and needles. As a result, scarring is minimized, and often almost undetectable.  Furthermore, since fat is obtained from areas where it is unwanted, many people experience enhanced appearance at the donor site.

Recovery time is minimal, and most women can return to work and/or other non-strenuous activities the day after the procedure. Vigorous or strenuous activity and exercise can be resumed approximately two weeks after fat transfer. When performed for reconstructive purposes, your medicalinsurance coverage will generally cover this treatment.

Fat Grafting for Breast Reconstruction in New York and Connecticut

Contact us if you would like more information about the options for micro-fat injection for breast reconstruction or to schedule a consultation. Our practice has offices in New York City and Greenwich, Connecticut.