Natural breast augmentation is a procedure that enhances the appearance of the breasts by utilizing a person’s body fat rather than artificial materials such as implants.
Breast enhancement procedures come in many forms. Each method of breast enhancement provides its own set of unique advantages. One method of breast augmentation that has recently been gaining significant traction is breast augmentation through fat grafting. This method allows for a natural breast enhancement that aligns closely with the body’s natural shape and contours. The goal of this procedure is to provide women with fuller, more shapely breasts without the risks associated with implant-based breast enhancement treatments.
Dr Riccardo Frati is one of London’s premier plastic surgeons, serving celebrities, models, and patients from London, Manchester, and abroad. Providing fast-recovery techniques and beautiful results, Dr Frati’s experience and expertise make him and his staff one of the top choices in London and Manchester for breast enhancement procedures.
To schedule a personal consultation with Dr Frati and his staff, please submit our contact form or call one of our two locations:
- London: +44 20 3633 2619
- Manchester: +44 16 1327 2139
Contents
About Breast Augmentation Without Implants
Breast enhancement with fat grafting is an innovative approach to breast augmentation that utilises autologous fat grafting techniques. The process begins with identifying suitable donor sites from which fat can be extracted. Common donor sites include areas such as the abdomen, flanks, or thighs. The goal of the procedure is not only to achieve volume enhancement but to create a natural look and feel to the breasts, avoiding artificiality in comparison with traditional silicone implants. Fat transfer, or lipofilling, significantly enhances the natural contours of the body while offering the benefits of body contouring from the donor area.
There are several reasons why individuals might opt for breast augmentation without implants. This method offers a more natural approach to breast enhancement. This method also minimises the risk of allergic reactions, as a patient is less likely to have an adverse reaction to their own body fat than they are to some of the materials found in implants. (1)
Benefits
Breast enhancement with fat grafting offers many advantages over other breast augmentation methods, such as implants, which helps explain why this type of procedure is associated with high patient satisfaction rates. (2) Some of the potential benefits associated with this type of treatment often include the following:
- Enhanced Appearance and Confidence: Patients may see an improvement in self-esteem and overall physical appearance after enhancing their breasts. The results provide a more organic organic look and feel compared to synthetic options.
- Minimally Invasive Procedure: Liposuction requires smaller incisions than traditional surgeries, resulting in less scarring.
- Dual Benefits: Patients can enjoy body contouring effects at the donor site along with breast enhancement.
- Reduced Risk of Rejection: Using your own fat minimises the risk of allergic reactions or complications associated with foreign materials. (1)
- No Visible Scarring on Breasts: Since the incisions are made at the donor site, there are no scars present on the breasts themselves.
- Permanent Results: When successfully integrated within the breast tissue, the results can last indefinitely, unlike other options needing replacement.
While implant-based breast augmentation can be beneficial for certain patients, breast enhancement procedures utilizing fat grafting methods have no shortage of potential benefits. For many people, breast augmentation with fat grafting is the optimal way to enhance the shape and size of their breasts.
Ideal Candidates
Several different factors can contribute to whether or not someone is an ideal candidate for a fat grafting breast enhancement procedure. Ideal candidates for this procedure are individuals who:
- Are looking for a natural method of breast augmentation that does not use artificial materials, such as implants.
- Have realistic expectations regarding the outcome of the procedure.
- Require moderate increases in volume rather than extreme enhancements.
- Are in good overall health without serious medical conditions.
- Are non-smokers, or willing to quit throughout the procedure.
Your eligibility for breast augmentation utilizing natural enhancement methods will be determined by Dr Frati and his staff during your personal consultation.
To see if you are an ideal candidate for breast augmentation with fat grafting techniques, fill out our contact form or call one of our two locations:
- London: +44 20 3633 2619
- Manchester: +44 16 1327 2139
Personal Consultation
While natural breast augmentation is highly beneficial for many, some people might benefit more from other procedures. It is essential to schedule a personal consultation with Dr Frati to determine which treatment method is best for you. During this meeting, Dr Frati will thoroughly assess your concerns, medical history, and aesthetic goals. He will also review your anatomy to identify potential donor sites for fat removal. Based on this information, he will develop a personalised treatment plan that best meets your needs. There will also be plenty of time dedicated to discussing any questions you have about natural breast augmentation and how it compares to other treatment methods.
To schedule this personal consultation with Dr Frati and his staff, fill out our contact form or call one of our two locations:
- London: +44 20 3633 2619
- Manchester: +44 16 1327 2139
Preparation
Natural breast enhancement can be transformative, but preparation is critical to ensuring the success of the procedure. You may be asked to discontinue the use of any blood-thinning medications or supplements as instructed by Dr Frati. He will also ask you to refrain from using nicotine and consuming alcohol before your procedure. Additionally, you should pre-arrange transportation home, as well as assistance during your initial recovery. Following these guidelines will enhance your chances for a smooth procedure and prompt recovery.
Procedure
The details of each natural breast augmentation will differ for each patient, but this procedure usually follows a handful of relatively similar steps. The first step is fat harvesting. Dr Frati will make small incisions and use techniques similar to liposuction to extract fat from selected donor sites. Once harvested, it will be purified to remove any impurities, ensuring that only viable, healthy fat cells are used for transfer. The purified fat is then injected into specific areas of the breast with precision to achieve optimal volume and shape. Throughout the entire procedure, meticulous attention is given to achieving symmetrical and natural-looking results.
To learn more about the other procedures we offer, please visit Dr Frati’s blog!
Recovery
Each patient’s recovery timeline will vary, but it is common to experience initial discomfort and swelling following their procedure. These effects can be managed through the use of medications but tend to gradually subside within a week. Patients may be instructed to wear a supportive bra for several weeks to aid in healing and will be instructed to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for several weeks. Dr Frati will provide you with a list of postoperative instructions following your procedure, detailing each instruction to ensure a smooth recovery. It is encouraged to schedule follow-up appointments with him and his team so he can monitor your progress and ensure that everything is healing properly.
Results
Patients often begin to see changes shortly after the procedure, though final results may not manifest for several months as any gradual swelling subsides and the injected fat settles into a more natural placement. While some of the body fat may naturally be reabsorbed into the bloodstream, the outcome of natural breast enhancement procedures is a natural and fuller profile that aligns with their aesthetic aspirations. Although results may vary, this procedure is often associated with long-lasting results and high patient satisfaction rates. (2)
Cost of Natural Breast Enhancement Procedures in London and Manchester
The cost of breast enhancement with fat grafting can vary based on several factors, including the complexity of the procedure, the amount of fat required for injection, and the type of anaesthesia used. Dr Frati and his staff will provide a fully transparent, detailed cost estimate during your personal consultation. Contact our office or call one of our two locations:
- London: +44 20 3633 2619
- Manchester: +44 16 1327 2139
FAQ
What is the difference between fat grafting and implants?
Fat grafting uses your body fat for a softer, more natural enhancement, while implants involve inserting silicone or saline bags to achieve the desired volume.
How much fat can be transferred?
The amount of fat that we can transfer will depend on how much excess fat you have; however, moderate increases in size are typically achievable.
Will I need more than one fat grafting session?
Some patients may require multiple sessions for optimal results, especially if significant volume is desired or if some of the transferred fat does not survive.
Is there a risk of complications during a fat transfer to the breasts?
As with any surgical procedure, risks exist, including infection and absorption of the fat. Discussing your individual risk factors during your personal consultation will clarify these concerns.
References
- Brucato D, Ülgür II, Alberti A, Weinzierl A, Harder Y. Complications Associated with Facial Autologous Fat Grafting for Aesthetic Purposes: A Systematic Review of the Literature. Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Global Open. 2024;12(1):e5538-e5538. doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/gox.0000000000005538
- Salibian AA, Frey JD, Bekisz JM, Choi M, Karp NS. Fat Grafting and Breast Augmentation: A Systematic Review of Primary Composite Augmentation. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Global Open. 2019;7(7). doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/GOX.0000000000002340