Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation
Sometimes, you're not looking for a dramatic change. You've always wanted a touch more fullness. You've noticed small shifts over the years that have you looking at your options. Fat transfer breast augmentation appeals to women who appreciate subtlety. It's a way to enhance what you already have using your own body's resources, without implants, and without making it a bigger deal than it needs to be. This approach is ideal for anyone who's thought, "What if I could just use some of this fat over here to gently enhance over there?" That's exactly what this is.
At MidAmerica Plastic Surgery & Medical Spa in Glen Carbon, IL, patients often say the same thing after meeting Dr. Ryan Diederich and the team: "They made me feel heard." You'll never be rushed or pressured. Instead, you'll get honest feedback, thoughtful guidance, and support from start to finish.
Dr. Ryan Diederich is a board-certified plastic surgeon and member of the American Board of Plastic Surgery. With nearly two decades of experience in plastic surgery, he performs fat transfer breast augmentation with an emphasis on precision, safety, and natural results. Our Glen Carbon practice is known for its welcoming environment and patient-first approach to care.
Fat transfer breast augmentation, also called fat grafting or autologous fat transfer, involves taking fat cells from one area of the body (commonly the abdomen, thighs, or flanks), processing them, and then injecting them into the breasts. Since it uses your own fat, the result is soft and natural to the touch. This method is ideal for patients looking to enhance breast size without using breast implants.
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This procedure is known for producing subtle, natural-looking changes with minimal scarring and no foreign materials. It's also a popular choice for women seeking aesthetic balance or body contouring without traditional implants.
Key benefits include:
Good candidates are typically in good health, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations about the results. You'll need to have enough fat in donor areas like the stomach or thighs to make the transfer possible. This is an ideal option for patients seeking a modest boost in breast size or correcting mild asymmetry. It's not recommended for those with very low body fat or who desire a significant increase in volume.
Your consultation with Dr. Diederich is the first step. He'll take time to learn about your goals, assess your body and fat availability, and walk you through the procedure and recovery in plain, straightforward terms. We'll also talk through any existing health conditions or medications to make sure you're a good candidate. Staying at a stable weight, avoiding certain medications, and stopping smoking ahead of surgery helps support healing and fat survival.
Fat transfer breast augmentation is typically done as an outpatient surgery and takes about two to four hours. Depending on your anatomy and plan, the procedure may be done under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.
Dr. Diederich uses liposuction to gently remove fat from areas like the abdomen, flanks, or thighs. That fat is then injected into the breasts. The goal is long-lasting fat survival with smooth, natural-looking volume. Because the fat is your own, your body is less likely to reject it, and the results feel natural to the touch.
Swelling and bruising are normal during the first couple of weeks. Most patients are back to light activity within a week and resume their usual routines within two to three weeks. The final shape settles gradually as the fat integrates into the tissue, typically over three to six months.
To support your recovery:
While not all transferred fat survives, most patients retain 60 to 80% (can vary) of the added volume long-term. Results tend to be stable with a consistent weight and healthy habits. Fat transfer can take multiple sessions to obtain results depending on your goals.
Costs can vary depending on the complexity of the surgery, the number of donor sites, and whether you're combining it with other procedures. Pricing typically includes:
You'll receive a detailed quote during your consultation, along with information on financing options. Because fat transfer is highly personalized, the cost reflects the artistry and customization of the procedure.
MidAmerica Plastic Surgery & Medical Spa offers the kind of experience patients value: clear communication, advanced surgical care, and real, lasting results. Dr. Ryan Diederich is a board-certified plastic surgeon with a reputation for careful attention to detail and excellent outcomes. Our Glen Carbon practice combines comfort, professionalism, and deep experience across a range of procedures, from fat transfer to breast reconstruction and more.
Whether you're just starting your search or already know you want to explore fat grafting as an alternative to traditional breast implants, we're here to walk you through it, all at your pace.
Ready to learn more? Schedule your consultation with Dr. Ryan Diederich at our Glen Carbon office and discover whether fat transfer breast augmentation is the right fit for your body and your goals.
Call 618-288-7855 or request your consultation online.
As with any surgery, there are risks such as bruising, swelling, infection, asymmetry, or fat reabsorption. Dr. Diederich will discuss all potential complications during your consultation.
With proper care and a stable weight, most patients maintain their results long-term. About 60 to 80% of transferred fat cells typically survive.
Yes, compression garments are worn on the donor sites like the thighs or abdomen to reduce swelling. However, the breasts are not compressed.
Absolutely. Many women choose to pair this with a breast lift, tummy tuck, or dermal fillers for full-body rejuvenation.
Most patients return to light activity within five to seven days and resume normal routines in about two to three weeks. Always follow your doctor's guidance for safe healing.
