Results can be long-lasting, but not all transferred fat survives. Some is reabsorbed in the first few months, and further treatment may be needed to reach the planned volume or contour. Weight changes can also affect the result. Your surgeon will review how the fat has settled before advising on another session.
Treatments - Breast Surgery
Fat Transfer to Breasts in Birmingham
Fat transfer to the breast, also known as autologous fat grafting, is a sophisticated procedure at our clinics in Birmingham that offers natural augmentation and reconstruction options for patients seeking breast enhancement or restoration. Within the comprehensive breast cancer management services at Birmingham Breast Group (BBG), fat transfer represents a versatile approach, providing aesthetic improvements and empowering breast cancer survivors with natural-looking reconstruction options.
At a Glance
Treatment time:
Up to 5 hours
Anaesthetic:
Local or General Anaesthetic
Return to work:
2-4 weeks
Duration:
Long Term Results
Final results:
Breast Augmentation / Reconstruction
What is breast fat transfer (lipomodelling)?
Fat transfer to the breast involves harvesting fat from one part of the body, typically the abdomen or thighs, through liposuction.
How does fat transfer to the breasts work?
The harvested fat is then processed and purified before being strategically injected into the breasts to achieve desired volume and shape. This technique offers a minimally invasive alternative to traditional breast augmentation with implants and provides a more natural-looking result.
The fat transfer procedure begins with a thorough consultation with the surgical team at BBG, during which your aesthetic goals and medical history are discussed. If deemed a suitable candidate, you’ll undergo liposuction to harvest excess fat from donor areas. The harvested fat is then processed to isolate viable fat cells before being meticulously injected into the breasts to achieve the desired augmentation or reconstruction outcome.
Is breast fat transfer suitable for me?
Individuals with little body fat may not be suitable candidates for fat transfer breast augmentation. The procedure requires our surgeons to remove more fat cells than are ultimately used, as some cells naturally die off during the process. For those with low body fat, breast implants may be a more viable option to achieve their desired results.
Benefits and limitations of breast fat transfer
Fat transfer to the breast offers several benefits if you’re seeking breast enhancement or reconstruction. Firstly, it provides a natural-looking and feeling result, as the transferred fat integrates seamlessly with surrounding breast tissue. Additionally, fat transfer avoids the risks associated with breast implants, such as implant rupture or capsular contracture. Furthermore, fat transfer allows for simultaneous body contouring, as excess fat is harvested from donor areas, resulting in changes to body contour. Fat transfer still carries surgical risks, and the amount of additional breast volume that can be achieved varies.
Fat transfer after breast cancer surgery
For breast cancer survivors undergoing reconstruction, fat transfer offers a viable option for achieving symmetrical and natural-looking breasts. Following mastectomy or lumpectomy procedures, fat transfer can restore volume and contour to the breast, helping you regain confidence and quality of life. Moreover, fat transfer provides a less invasive alternative to traditional flap surgeries, reducing recovery time and potential donor site morbidity.
Fat grafting is different from flap-based autologous breast reconstruction, such as DIEP or latissimus dorsi flap surgery. Lipomodelling transfers fat by injection; flap surgery transfers a larger section of tissue to reconstruct the breast. Fat grafting may be used alongside other reconstruction techniques to improve volume or contour. Your surgeon will explain which approach is appropriate for you.
How long do fat transfer breast augmentation results last?
Results can be long-lasting, but some transferred fat is naturally reabsorbed during the first few months. It can take up to six months to assess the final result, and more than one treatment may be needed. Weight changes can affect the volume of the remaining fat. Your surgeon will discuss realistic expectations at your consultation.
Birmingham Breast Group (BBG) is dedicated to delivering comprehensive and patient-centred care to breast cancer patients, including access to fat transfer as part of the breast cancer management pathway. The integration of fat transfer within BBG’s services reflects a commitment to addressing aesthetic and reconstructive needs, ensuring optimal outcomes and quality of life. Through a multidisciplinary approach involving breast surgeons, plastic surgeons, and support staff, BBG provides individualised treatment plans tailored to meet your unique needs and preferences.
Your breast fat transfer consultation in Birmingham
At BBG, fat transfer to the breast is performed by a multidisciplinary team of oncoplastic surgeons, working to ensure optimal surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction. Our approach allows for comprehensive preoperative assessment, precise surgical planning, and thorough postoperative care, ensuring that you receive the highest quality of care throughout your treatment journey.
In addition to its role in breast cancer reconstruction, fat transfer to the breast is also utilised for cosmetic purposes, providing patients with natural-looking augmentation and body contouring options. BBG offers fat transfer as part of its cosmetic surgery services, allowing patients like you to enhance your appearance and achieve your aesthetic goals with long-lasting and natural results.
BBG remains at the forefront of breast cancer research, actively participating in clinical trials and contributing to advancements in fat transfer techniques and outcomes. Through ongoing research initiatives, BBG seeks to optimise surgical techniques, improve patient outcomes, and enhance the overall patient experience following fat transfer to the breast.
Fat transfer to the breast represents a versatile and effective approach to breast enhancement and reconstruction, offering natural-looking results, providing viable alternatives to traditional breast augmentation and reconstruction methods. Within the comprehensive breast cancer management services at Birmingham Breast Group (BBG), fat transfer is integrated as part of a multidisciplinary approach, ensuring personalised treatment plans and optimal outcomes. Whether for cosmetic purposes or breast cancer reconstruction, fat transfer to the breast offers a safe, effective, and patient-centred solution for achieving natural-looking augmentation and restoration of breast aesthetics.
Discuss your breast fat transfer options
Meet our breast care team and view our Birmingham hospital locations. If your main concern is a difference in breast size or shape, you can also read about breast symmetrisation surgery. To discuss suitability, recovery and an individual treatment plan, book a breast fat transfer consultation.
Planning your fat transfer appointment
For location details and travel information, visit our pages for The Priory Hospital in Edgbaston and Spire Parkway Hospital in Solihull. When booking, our team can confirm the appropriate hospital for your consultation and treatment.
Breast fat transfer: frequently asked questions
Fat transfer may be an option for modest breast enhancement or to improve volume and contour after breast cancer surgery. You need enough donor fat for liposuction. Your surgeon will assess your health, previous treatment and goals before recommending an approach. If fat transfer is unsuitable, breast augmentation with implants may be an option to discuss.
Bruising, swelling, discomfort and temporary numbness can occur. Risks include infection, bleeding, uneven contours and fat necrosis, where some transferred fat dies and may form a lump. Rare serious complications include blood clots and fat embolism. Your surgeon will explain your individual risks and how complications are managed. Read the NHS guide to surgical fat transfer for general information.
Recovery depends on how much fat is transferred, the donor areas and whether you have other surgery at the same time. BBG lists an indicative return-to-work period of 2–4 weeks; your surgeon will advise on your circumstances. Bruising and swelling can last several weeks. Follow your surgical team’s instructions on exercise and driving, and allow up to six months for the result to settle.
How much does breast fat transfer cost in Birmingham?
As each case is unique, the cost of treatment at BBG may vary depending on individual factors. We tailor our approach to meet your specific needs, ensuring that you receive personalised care and comprehensive support throughout your journey.
Initial consultation
please enquire
All consultations are conducted in strict privacy and all information is confidential.
Surgery costs from
based on consultation
Each procedure has its own personalised treatment plan that is meticulously tailored to meet your unique needs and goals. Healthcare Insurance may be accepted.
Related Treatments
Mastectomy
View TreatmentAutologous Breast Reconstruction
View TreatmentSymmetrisation Surgery
View TreatmentRelated Concerns
Changes in Breast Size
View ConcernChanges in the Shape of the Breast
View ConcernFat Transfer to Breasts in Birmingham
Our Specialist Team
Meet the dedicated professionals at Birmingham Breast Group – committed to excellence, compassion, and personalised care for every patient.
BSc, MBBS, MSc, MRCS (Ed), FRCS (Eng), MD, FEBS
Naren Basu
Lead Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon
BSc, BM, MRCP, FRCR, MD
Daniel Henderson
Consultant Clinical Oncologist
MBChB, PhD, FRCS (Eng)
Ms Salena Bains
Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon
Consultant Clinical oncologist
Dr James Good
PhD, FRCR
BSc, PhD, FRCP
Professor Daniel Rea
Professor of Medical Oncology
MRCP, FRCR
Dr Sara Meade
Consultant Clinical Oncologist
BSc, MBBS, MRCS, FRCR
Dr Faisal Majid
Consultant Radiologist
MSc, PhD, FRCPath
Dr Abeer Shaaban
Path Consultant Pathologist
Bsc, MBBS, MD (Pathology) FRCPath
Dr Rachna Awasthi
Path Consultant Pathologist
Dawn Larkin
Breast Care Specialist Nurse
Ruth Tracey
Macmillan Breast Health Care Assistant
Qualifications Here
Gill Farrington
Breast Care Specialist Nurse
Written by a patient at BMI The Priory Hospital, 17th August 2020
Mr Henderson was kind and understanding and I felt completely at ease with him. He was well informed of my condition and explained his treatment plan to me fully. He has been very attentive in answering emails from me and I really cannot recommend him highly enough. I feel very fortunate to have been in his care.
Written by a patient at BMI The Priory Hospital, 17th August 2020
Mr Henderson was kind and understanding and I felt completely at ease with him. He was well informed of my condition and explained his treatment plan to me fully. He has been very attentive in answering emails from me and I really cannot recommend him highly enough. I feel very fortunate to have been in his care.
Written by a patient at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 1st December 2019
I have been a patient of Dr Basu since being diagnosed with Breast Cancer a few months ago. Despite the curse of my diagnosis I couldn’t have asked for a better Dr and standard of care. He and his team are super-efficient, have gone out of their way to get fast effective treatment for me and he has super-human levels of patience. During every consultation he has been ever patient, carefully listened to all my questions and concerns then taken the time to explain everything to me and provided constant reassurance. He has been accessible at all times even over weekends and the support has been broad. He looks after you as if you are family and despite having a 90 minute journey to see him at times as we wanted the fastest appointment we couldn’t ask for anything more. Our family see him as an angel not just a doctor for what he has done for us and would recommend him in less than a blink of a eye.
Written by a patient at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 30th September 2019
I first met Naren Basu in 2016 at the Queen Elizabeth Women’s Hospital. I had been diagnosed with breast cancer. He is an exceptionally skilled man at putting people at their ease and explaining everything with great patience and candour. He is a consummate professional and really knows his stuff, especially relating to breast cancer. He is very clever, witty, and a super surgeon. He carried out a reduction to both my breasts, removing the tumours at the same time. I was fortunate indeed to have my surgery via the NHS, it would have been very expensive as a private patient but worth every penny. I felt like a million dollars after my operation. I think he is a fabulous man and so skilled on so many levels and outstanding in human kindness.
Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 12th June 2019
Nine days before I was due to go on an extended holiday I discovered problems in both breasts. I was lucky enough to get an appointment 3 days before travel. Mr Basu even called me on the day of the appointment to ask me to come in earlier to ensure they had time to undergo all of the tests that evening. Anyone who has had these problems will know how overwhelming it is but Mr Basu took his time to speak to me and explained all of the procedures/tests that would be carried out that evening and possible outcomes. I did have a small procedure and again everything was explained fully and felt quite safe in his hands. The follow up appointments were just as thorough and Mr Basu made sure I understood all that we discussed. If I ever found myself in this position again Mr Basu would be my first port of call.
Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 11th May 2020
I was diagnosed with HER2 positive breast cancer November 8th 2019 , I was then appointed Dr Henderson almost immediately to discuss my treatment plan and way forward, I must say Dr Henderson was absolutely fantastic, he has a real calming nature and really put myself and my husband at ease , plotting my treatment course from day 1 gave us a massive line of sight to work to and in with combination of the nurses at little Aston facing the biggest fight of my life became easier & easier as the week progressed, I owe Dr Henderson my life and can’t thank him enough, he’s worth is weight in gold
Written by a patient at Good Hope Hospital, 27th November 2019
I am currently under the care of Dr Daniel Henderson at Good Hope Hospital, and I couldn’t ask for better. He listens, and speaks to you in laymans terms so you understand what is going on now and in the future. He talks to you and not at you, and has a very calm and soothing manner. If you are lucky enough to be referred to him, rest assured that you are in good hands, as he gets things actioned quickly.
Written by a patient at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 1st December 2019
I have been a patient of Dr Basu since being diagnosed with Breast Cancer a few months ago. Despite the curse of my diagnosis I couldn’t have asked for a better Dr and standard of care. He and his team are super-efficient, have gone out of their way to get fast effective treatment for me and he has super-human levels of patience. During every consultation he has been ever patient, carefully listened to all my questions and concerns then taken the time to explain everything to me and provided constant reassurance. He has been accessible at all times even over weekends and the support has been broad. He looks after you as if you are family and despite having a 90 minute journey to see him at times as we wanted the fastest appointment we couldn’t ask for anything more. Our family see him as an angel not just a doctor for what he has done for us and would recommend him in less than a blink of a eye.
Written by a patient at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, 30th September 2019
I first met Naren Basu in 2016 at the Queen Elizabeth Women’s Hospital. I had been diagnosed with breast cancer. He is an exceptionally skilled man at putting people at their ease and explaining everything with great patience and candour. He is a consummate professional and really knows his stuff, especially relating to breast cancer. He is very clever, witty, and a super surgeon. He carried out a reduction to both my breasts, removing the tumours at the same time. I was fortunate indeed to have my surgery via the NHS, it would have been very expensive as a private patient but worth every penny. I felt like a million dollars after my operation. I think he is a fabulous man and so skilled on so many levels and outstanding in human kindness.
Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 12th June 2019
Nine days before I was due to go on an extended holiday I discovered problems in both breasts. I was lucky enough to get an appointment 3 days before travel. Mr Basu even called me on the day of the appointment to ask me to come in earlier to ensure they had time to undergo all of the tests that evening. Anyone who has had these problems will know how overwhelming it is but Mr Basu took his time to speak to me and explained all of the procedures/tests that would be carried out that evening and possible outcomes. I did have a small procedure and again everything was explained fully and felt quite safe in his hands. The follow up appointments were just as thorough and Mr Basu made sure I understood all that we discussed. If I ever found myself in this position again Mr Basu would be my first port of call.
Written by a carer at Spire Little Aston Hospital, 11th May 2020
I was diagnosed with HER2 positive breast cancer November 8th 2019 , I was then appointed Dr Henderson almost immediately to discuss my treatment plan and way forward, I must say Dr Henderson was absolutely fantastic, he has a real calming nature and really put myself and my husband at ease , plotting my treatment course from day 1 gave us a massive line of sight to work to and in with combination of the nurses at little Aston facing the biggest fight of my life became easier & easier as the week progressed, I owe Dr Henderson my life and can’t thank him enough, he’s worth is weight in gold
Written by a patient at Good Hope Hospital, 27th November 2019
I am currently under the care of Dr Daniel Henderson at Good Hope Hospital, and I couldn’t ask for better. He listens, and speaks to you in laymans terms so you understand what is going on now and in the future. He talks to you and not at you, and has a very calm and soothing manner. If you are lucky enough to be referred to him, rest assured that you are in good hands, as he gets things actioned quickly.
Written by a patient at BMI The Priory Hospital, 17th August 2020
Mr Henderson was kind and understanding and I felt completely at ease with him. He was well informed of my condition and explained his treatment plan to me fully. He has been very attentive in answering emails from me and I really cannot recommend him highly enough. I feel very fortunate to have been in his care.
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