Our surgical center in Metairie & New Orleans offers breast augmentation with fat transfer, an advanced technique that uses the patient’s body fat to enhance their breast size. During this procedure, Dr. Metzinger harvests excess fat via liposuction, processes it, and skillfully re-injects the purified tissue into the breasts to achieve the desired shape. He creates beautiful, natural-looking augmentations with advanced technology and artful technique. As Louisiana’s only triple board-certified surgeon, Dr. Metzinger provides exceptional care and expertise. Patients can learn more about this transformative breast enhancement option by scheduling a consultation with Aesthetic Surgical Associates today.
Fat transfer, also known as fat grafting, is an innovative technique that takes fat from certain parts of the patient’s body and places it into the area they wish to enhance. Although it has been used in cosmetic procedures for a long time, many people are still unfamiliar with this method and its benefits.
Fat grafting can be used for both breast augmentation and breast reconstruction surgery. These are two very different procedures:
Breast augmentation is a typical breast enlargement whereby a patient with smaller breasts is seeking surgery to make them more prominent and voluptuous.
Breast reconstruction is designed for women who have previously had all or part of one or both of their breasts removed to heal or prevent breast cancer.
The fat transfer procedure is typically recommended for patients looking for a slight increase – up to one cup size. It results in a natural, subtle enhancement.
During the initial consultation, Dr. Metzinger evaluates the patient, discusses their goals for surgery, reviews health history, and performs a physical exam of the breasts and donor sites. He also explains the details of the procedure and addresses any questions or concerns the patient may have. Based on these assessments, Dr. Metzinger determines if the person is a good candidate for fat transfer augmentation.
Arranging a ride home from the surgery center
Fat transfer is a fairly straightforward procedure that can often be carried out under local anesthetic combined with sedation. A tumescent solution containing lidocaine is injected to numb the area and help break up the fat. This fluid also includes epinephrine, a medication that constricts blood vessels to prevent bleeding and bruising. However, many women still prefer having general anesthesia to remain asleep during the entire surgery.
Fat removal is done via liposuction. A cannula (thin tube) is inserted through tiny incisions into the target area. Dr. Metzinger uses advanced technology to dislodge fat cells safely and with higher precision:
Then, excess fat is suctioned out using a vacuum device attached to the cannula. This natural breast tissue is collected in a sterile container for further processing.
Once the fat has been removed, it must be prepared before re-injection into the breasts. This involves using special equipment that quickly spins the fatty tissue, separating it from blood and other fluids. As a result, Dr. Metzinger gets a purified donor material for natural breast augmentation.
A special cannula is used to inject fat into the breasts in layers until the new shape and size have been reached. The insertion points for these injections are so small that sutures are rarely needed.
The entire fat transfer process usually takes a couple of hours. After that, Dr. Metzinger closes the tiny incisions created during liposuction. If the patient wants more significant augmentation, he can perform this procedure multiple times over several surgeries.
A breast lift, also called mastopexy, is a cosmetic procedure that raises and firms the breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue to reshape and support the new breast contour. During this surgery, the nipple and areola can be repositioned to a more youthful height. It is a highly versatile procedure that improves cosmetic issues after pregnancy or age-related changes. A breast lift is often a great complement to breast augmentation with fat transfer because it can provide tightening and lifting effects while fat grafting adds natural-looking volume.
Fat transfer for breast enlargement or reconstruction is an invasive procedure that requires patients to take enough time to successfully and safely recover. They usually have some swelling and bruising both at the site of fat removal and on their breasts. Patients may also experience temporary numbness and pain. Dr. Metzinger prescribes medication to help alleviate this discomfort.It might take you a few days to feel comfortable driving. Most patients schedule around a week off of work. If you have a physically demanding job or are on your feet all day, you may wish to take more time for your recovery.As with all cosmetic surgery procedures, the results of your breast augmentation require time to realize fully. It can take around six months for the transferred fat to settle and for you to see the final breast shape and size. You will almost certainly notice that your breasts are larger immediately after surgery. However, some transferred fat cells will not integrate, which is normal. Therefore, we recommend waiting several months to see the final results.
Breast augmentation with fat transfer is ideal for individuals seeking a modest increase in breast size. Since fat grafting can only provide a limited volume, this method suits those who want a more natural enhancement rather than a dramatic size increase with saline or silicone implants.
The cost of breast augmentation with fat transfer in Metairie & New Orleans ranges from $3,500 to $8,000. This price covers the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, operating room expenses, and post-surgery garments. The cost depends on several factors, including the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon’s credentials, and the location.
Patients can receive all financial information during the initial consultation with Dr. Metzinger. Insurance companies may reimburse some of the costs if fat transfer is performed as part of reconstructive plastic surgery. In other cases, patients can use our flexible financing plans from CareCredit and Alphaeon Credit.
Mon 9:00am – 5:00pm
Tue 9:00am – 5:00pm
Wed 9:00am – 5:00pm
Thu 9:00am – 5:00pm
Fri 9:00am – 3:00pm
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