At Hamptons Plastic Surgery in Quogue, NY, double board-certified and fellowship-trained plastic surgeon Dr. Tracy M. Pfeifer specializes in breast reconstruction with fat transfer, bringing years of expertise and research involvement to her patients.
Dr. Pfeifer treats each patient with the utmost care, listening empathetically to individual needs and customizing treatments to achieve natural, beautiful results. With an approach that includes excellent pre- and post-operative care, Dr. Pfeifer and our team provide a supportive environment, ensuring you’re informed and comfortable at every step.
A big aspect of Dr. Pfeifer’s customized approach is her dedication to giving our patients choices, particularly after a procedure as life-changing as a mastectomy.
This blog explores post-mastectomy fat transfer as an alternative to breast implants.
What is Fat Transfer for Breast Reconstruction?
Fat transfer breast reconstruction uses your body fat to rebuild the breast shape after a mastectomy. This method avoids synthetic implants and instead harvests fat from other areas, such as the abdomen, for a natural look and feel.
For some women, this approach feels gentler and more organic than breast implants. Additionally, the reconstructed breast often has a softer, more natural contour since the fat comes from your body.
Benefits of Fat Transfer for Breast Reconstruction
Using your fat for breast reconstruction offers some benefits that may appeal to you, including:
- A small number of tiny incisions
- Less scarring
- No chance of implant rejection
- No risk of capsular contracture
- Ability to naturally shape and sculpt the breast
- Comfortable, natural feel
For women who prefer to avoid synthetic materials, fat transfer offers a reliable alternative with benefits that enhance physical and emotional comfort.
The Fat Transfer Procedure for Breast Reconstruction
Fat transfer breast reconstruction is typically performed in stages.
First, Dr. Pfeifer performs a procedure to place a tissue expander (like an empty breast implant) beneath the main muscle in your chest wall. Over about two months, she gradually adds fluid or air to the expander until the breast pocket is large enough for your desired breast shape and fullness.
For the fat transfer, Dr. Pfeifer performs liposuction to suction fat from your chosen donor area. Then, she purifies the fat and injects it into your breasts.
It’s normal for the body to reabsorb some fat, but most remains. You may need 2-5 fat transfer sessions to reach your desired appearance.
Our patients typically have minimal pain following fat transfer. On average, patients rate their pain at just 2 out of 10 and feel better quickly using muscle relaxers.
Most of our patients resume light activity within a few weeks.
Breast Reconstruction in Quogue, NY
If you’re considering breast reconstruction with fat transfer, call 631-653-6112 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Pfeifer at Hamptons Plastic Surgery in Quogue, NY. We’re here to support you with compassionate, expert care every step of the way.