Autologous breast augmentation is an increasingly popular alternative to breast implant surgery. For qualified women, this technique is considered to be an overall safe procedure. Like all surgeries, however, it has its risks.
1. Fat reabsorption
Natural breast augmentation uses fat tissue harvested from other parts of the body to achieve a modest increase in breast size. Once injected into the breasts, this fat will be treated like it is in other parts of the body. Over time – following the surgery – up to half of it may be reabsorbed back by the body. Patients should work with a seasoned plastic surgeon who knows how to compensate for this effect. In some cases, you may need to undergo a secondary procedure to replace fat that has already been reabsorbed and maintain the result of your procedure.
2. Fat necrosis
This refers to the death of fat cells, and is a common risk factor associated with natural breast augmentation. When fat cells that have been grafted into the breasts lack enough blood supply, they may die. Dead fat cells then result in unpleasant symptoms such as oily cystic lumps, pain, calcification, redness, bruising, scar tissue, and skin discoloration. Fat necrosis lumps sometimes look like cancer lumps and need to be examined by a doctor. If the lump doesn’t resolve on its own and is causing discomfort or other issues, then it’ll need to be surgically removed. Working with a highly experienced plastic surgeon can help reduce the risk of fat necrosis.
3. Infection
While fat transfer is considered to be a minimally invasive procedure, it nonetheless carries a small risk of injection. This risk can be particularly heightened in individuals who smoke or have a weakened immune system.
During your consultation visit with a plastic surgeon, it is important that you ask questions and clearly understand all the risks of autologous breast augmentation.