Must-See Plastic Surgery Guide for Autologous Fat Breast Augmentation in Edmonton
If you have been considering breast augmentation, you may have come across the term "autologous fat breast augmentation." This innovative procedure offers a natural alternative to traditional breast implants by using your body's own fat to enhance your breasts. If you are in Edmonton and interested in autologous fat breast augmentation, this guide is a must-read for you.
1. What is Autologous Fat Breast Augmentation?
Autologous fat breast augmentation, also known as natural breast augmentation, is a cosmetic procedure that uses fat harvested from your own body to increase the volume and enhance the shape of your breasts. The fat is typically harvested from areas such as the thighs, abdomen, or buttocks through liposuction techniques.
This innovative technique offers a natural alternative to traditional breast implants, as it uses your body's own tissue instead of foreign materials. The fat is processed and purified before being injected into the breasts to achieve the desired results.
2. The Benefits of Autologous Fat Breast Augmentation
Autologous fat breast augmentation comes with several benefits that make it an attractive option for many women in Edmonton:
Natural Results: Using your body's own fat allows for more natural-looking and feeling results compared to traditional breast implants.
Dual Benefit: The procedure not only enhances the volume and shape of your breasts but also improves the contour of the donor area from where the fat is harvested.
No Risks of Implant Rupture or Leakage: Since no implants are involved, there is no risk of implant rupture or leakage, which may be a concern with traditional implants.
Minimal Scarring: The incisions made for the fat transfer are small and discreet, resulting in minimal scarring compared to traditional breast augmentation.
Long-Lasting Results: The transferred fat cells establish a blood supply in the breasts, providing long-lasting results. However, keep in mind that a percentage of the transferred fat may be reabsorbed by the body over time.
3. Finding the Right Plastic Surgeon in Edmonton
Choosing the right plastic surgeon is crucial for a successful autologous fat breast augmentation. Here's what you should consider when selecting a plastic surgeon in Edmonton:
Experience and Expertise: Look for a plastic surgeon who specializes in autologous fat breast augmentation and has extensive experience performing the procedure.
Board Certification: Ensure that the plastic surgeon you choose is board-certified by recognized medical associations, such as the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
Before and After Photos: Review the plastic surgeon's before and after photos of previous patients who underwent autologous fat breast augmentation. This will give you an idea of their skills and the results they can achieve.
Reviews and Testimonials: Read reviews and testimonials from previous patients to get insights into their experiences and satisfaction with the surgeon and the procedure.
Open Communication: A good plastic surgeon will take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and explain the procedure, including the risks and benefits.
4. Initial Consultation with Your Plastic Surgeon
Once you have chosen a plastic surgeon in Edmonton, schedule an initial consultation to discuss your goals and expectations for autologous fat breast augmentation. During this consultation, you can expect the following:
Physical Examination: The plastic surgeon will examine your breasts and the donor areas to evaluate if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
Discussion of Goals: You will have the opportunity to discuss your goals and desired breast size with your plastic surgeon. They will provide recommendations based on your body proportions and realistic expectations.
Review of Medical History: Your plastic surgeon will ask about your medical history, including any previous surgeries, allergies, or medical conditions that may affect the procedure or your recovery.
Explanation of the Procedure: Your plastic surgeon will explain how the autologous fat breast augmentation procedure works, including the preparation, liposuction technique, fat processing, and injection process.
Risks and Complications: A responsible plastic surgeon will inform you about the potential risks and complications associated with the procedure. These may include infection, bleeding, fat necrosis, and asymmetrical results.
5. Preparing for Autologous Fat Breast Augmentation
Before your autologous fat breast augmentation procedure, your plastic surgeon will provide you with specific instructions to ensure a safe and successful surgery. Here are some general guidelines you may need to follow:
Quitting Smoking: If you smoke, you will be advised to quit smoking at least six weeks before the procedure. Smoking can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of complications.
Medication Adjustments: Inform your plastic surgeon about any medications, supplements, or herbal remedies you are taking. Some medications, such as aspirin and certain anti-inflammatory drugs, may need to be discontinued temporarily to reduce the risk of bleeding.
Fasting: You will likely be instructed to refrain from eating or drinking anything for a specific period before the surgery. This helps prevent complications associated with anesthesia.
Arranging Transportation: Since you will be under the effects of anesthesia, you will need to arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.
6. The Autologous Fat Breast Augmentation Procedure
The autologous fat breast augmentation procedure typically follows these steps:
Anesthesia: You will be placed under either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. Your plastic surgeon will determine the most suitable option for you.
Liposuction: The plastic surgeon will perform liposuction on the donor area(s) to harvest the fat. This involves making small incisions and using a thin tube called a cannula to suction out the excess fat.
Fat Processing and Purification: The harvested fat is processed and purified to remove impurities, excess fluids, and damaged fat cells. This ensures that only the healthy fat cells are used for the transfer.
Injection: The processed fat is carefully injected into specific areas of the breasts to enhance their volume and shape. The plastic surgeon will use their expertise to create symmetry and natural-looking results.
Closure and Recovery: After the fat transfer, the incisions on the donor areas will be closed with sutures, and the breasts may be wrapped in a compression garment. You may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which are normal and will subside over time.
7. Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery after autologous fat breast augmentation varies from person to person. It is essential to follow your plastic surgeon's instructions for a smooth and successful recovery. Here are some general guidelines to keep in mind:
Compression Garment: Your plastic surgeon may recommend wearing a compression garment or supportive bra to minimize swelling and provide support to the newly augmented breasts.
Managing Discomfort: You may experience mild to moderate discomfort and swelling after the procedure. Your plastic surgeon may prescribe pain medication or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to manage the discomfort.
Physical Activity: You will need to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and exercise for a few weeks to allow your body to heal properly. Your plastic surgeon will provide specific instructions on when you can gradually resume your regular activities.
Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon for them to assess your healing progress and address any concerns or questions you may have.
8. Expected Results and Long-Term Maintenance
The results of autologous fat breast augmentation are visible immediately after the procedure, although they may be partially obscured by swelling. As the swelling subsides, you will get a clearer picture of the final result, usually within a few weeks to months.
Keep in mind that a portion of the transferred fat may be reabsorbed by the body over time. Therefore, the plastic surgeon may initially overfill the breasts to compensate for this loss. The long-term maintenance of the results depends on several factors, including your body's natural aging process and changes in weight.
It's important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and a stable weight to ensure the longevity of your enhanced breasts. Significant weight fluctuations or pregnancy may affect the results, as they can change the distribution of fat in your body.
9. The Cost of Autologous Fat Breast Augmentation
The cost of autologous fat breast augmentation in Edmonton can vary depending on factors such as the plastic surgeon's experience, the complexity of the procedure, and the geographical location of the clinic. On average, the cost can range from $7,000 to $12,000.
During your initial consultation, your plastic surgeon will provide you with a detailed cost estimate based on your specific needs and goals.
10. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does the procedure take?
A: The duration of autologous fat breast augmentation depends on various factors, including the extent of liposuction required and the volume of fat transfer. Generally, the procedure can range from two to four hours.
Q: Will the fat transfer affect breast cancer screenings?
A: The transferred fat does not typically interfere with breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms. However, it is essential to inform your radiologist about your fat transfer procedure before undergoing any screenings.
Q: Are the results of autologous fat breast augmentation permanent?
A: While the transferred fat cells establish a blood supply in the breasts, it is important to note that a portion of the transferred fat may be reabsorbed by the body over time. However, with proper maintenance and a healthy lifestyle, the results can be long-lasting.
Q: Can I breastfeed after autologous fat breast augmentation?
A: Generally, autologous fat breast augmentation does not interfere with breastfeeding. However, it's important to discuss your desire to breastfeed with your plastic surgeon during the initial consultation.
Autologous fat breast augmentation offers a natural approach to breast enhancement. By choosing a reputable plastic surgeon in Edmonton and having realistic expectations, you can make an informed decision about this innovative procedure. Remember, it's essential to have open communication with your plastic surgeon to ensure a successful outcome and enhance your overall satisfaction with the results.
