How many years can fat augmentation of the breasts last?
Disease description:
I am interested in breast augmentation with autologous fat transfer but am concerned about how long the results will last. I understand that autologous fat transfer for breast augmentation is a more natural method, but I worry that the effects may gradually diminish over time. I would like to know how many years the results of autologous fat breast augmentation can last and whether there are other important considerations as well.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Lu
In general, the effects of fat augmentation for breast enhancement can last from 5 to 30 years. The exact duration varies individually, influenced by factors such as personal physique, amount of transplanted fat, the surgeon's experience, postoperative care, and the survival rate of fat cells.
Autologous fat transfer breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that involves extracting fat from other areas of the body, processing it, and then injecting it into the breasts to achieve breast enhancement. Compared to implant-based breast augmentation, autologous fat transfer appears more natural and does not cause a foreign body sensation. Individuals with slower metabolism and higher fat cell survival rates typically enjoy longer-lasting results, sometimes up to around 30 years. Conversely, individuals with faster metabolism and lower fat cell survival rates may only maintain the effect for 5–10 years.
To ensure lasting results and reduce the risk of complications, patients should choose experienced plastic surgeons for the procedure and follow the surgeon's postoperative care instructions. Additionally, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits and avoiding significant weight fluctuations also help preserve the breast augmentation effect. Regular follow-up visits after surgery and promptly communicating any discomfort to the physician are also essential for ensuring safety and effectiveness.
