Breast Augmentation with Autologous Fat (Lipofilling)
Breast augmentation with autologous fat was first described in 1987, although the fundamental method of lipotransfer – the transplantation of the body’s own fat tissue from one area to another – dates back over 120 years. The technique has only become firmly established over the past 20 years, after large-scale studies confirmed its effectiveness and safety. So-called “lipofilling” of the breast is the most natural of all available surgical breast augmentation methods; however, it is not suitable for every breast shape or every patient.
Jump directly to your topic of interest?
- What is breast augmentation with autologous fat?
- How does breast augmentation with autologous fat work?
- Who is suitable for breast augmentation with autologous fat?
- Consultation, costs and legal requirements
- Procedure and aftercare
- Dr. Spiegl – the experienced aesthetic surgeon
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is breast augmentation with autologous fat?
In breast augmentation with autologous fat, also known as lipofilling, fat tissue harvested from another area of the body is injected into the breasts. The result is completely natural and remains stable after the healing phase – long-term complications are not to be expected. This represents a major advantage compared to breast augmentation with implants, as implants are always foreign materials that may become damaged or encapsulated – even though the latest generation of implants is extremely safe and durable.
How does breast augmentation with autologous fat work?
During lipofilling, the donor area is first prepared with a special water-based solution before fat harvesting. This solution contains, among other components, a local anesthetic and adrenaline, thereby minimizing bleeding and discomfort. The fat is then gently aspirated through small incisions of approximately 3–4 mm using a blunt cannula. The harvested fat is purified and specially processed to maximize graft survival within the breast.
Approximately 20% of the transferred fat tissue is typically resorbed (reabsorbed) by the body, which is why slight overcorrection is often performed. The total amount of fat that can be transferred during one session is usually limited by anatomical factors. As a general guideline, an increase of approximately one cup size can be achieved.
If a more significant enlargement is desired, this can be accomplished either through multiple procedures or by preparing the breast over approximately four weeks using a bra-like vacuum tissue expander (BRAVA©). The BRAVA© device must be worn for at least 10 hours per day. It significantly increases blood circulation to the breast, which is essential for safely accommodating larger volumes of fat. Additionally, the BRAVA© device gently pre-expands the breast tissue, creating ideal conditions for surgery.
Who is suitable for breast augmentation with autologous fat?
The ideal candidate for breast augmentation with autologous fat has a well-shaped breast without significant sagging and sufficient fat deposits in other body areas suitable for harvesting. Since the required fat volume for breast lipofilling is relatively modest, the procedure is often feasible even in slim patients.
Consultation, Costs and Legal Requirements
If you are interested in breast augmentation with autologous fat, you are welcome to schedule a consultation with Dr. Spiegl. During your first appointment, all questions will be addressed without time pressure, comprehensive advice will be provided, and photographic documentation will be created. Please bring all available medical records related to your medical history.
After receiving the cost estimate (the price for breast augmentation with autologous fat is €5,900 including anesthesia and hospital stay) and deciding to proceed with surgery, a surgical date will be scheduled. In Austria, by law, two weeks must pass between the informed consent consultation and the signing of the surgical consent form.
Procedure and Aftercare
Dr. Spiegl performs the operation in a highly equipped center where he can rely on uncompromising quality standards, the highest medical protocols, and his trusted surgical team. This provides you with an additional – yet important – level of safety. The procedure itself lasts approximately 1 hour and is performed under general anesthesia.
After surgery, no bra or only a very light bra should be worn for six weeks to support optimal fat graft integration. At the same time, the donor areas should be supported with compression garments.
The postoperative course following breast lipofilling can be summarized as follows:
- Return to work: usually after 1 week
- Sports: cautiously from approximately 4 weeks
- Final result: after approximately 3–6 months
Dr. Spiegl – the experienced aesthetic surgeon in Salzburg and Lower Austria
Dr. Matthias Spiegl is a board-certified specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery and holds medical licenses in Austria, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. Following highly specialized international training in England, Switzerland, and Scotland, he established his practice in Salzburg and Tulln. One of his core specializations is aesthetic breast surgery, which he performs at a consistently high level with precision and uncompromising standards.
As an additional qualification, Dr. Spiegl completed the European Board Examination in 2018 and was awarded the title “Fellow of the European Board of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery” (FEBOPRAS). This distinction is relatively rare in Austria and further underscores his expertise in aesthetic surgery.
- International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS)
- Austrian Society of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery
- Swiss Society of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery
- Fellow of the European Board of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery
- General Medical Council (United Kingdom)
- Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does the result of breast augmentation with autologous fat last?
The integrated fat tissue remains permanently and behaves like natural breast fat.
Can the transferred fat shrink or disappear later on?
Only the initial resorption of approximately 20% of the transferred fat is expected. After that, the result remains stable long term.
Is breast augmentation with autologous fat safe?
Yes, when performed with proper technique and adequate experience, lipofilling is considered a very safe method.
Can I breastfeed after the procedure?
In most cases, yes. The mammary glands and milk ducts remain intact.
Are there visible scars?
The incisions are very small (3–4 mm) and typically heal discreetly.
Is combination with implants possible?
Yes, in certain cases autologous fat can also be used as a complementary procedure alongside implants.
