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Understanding Fat Grafting During Explant Surgery: What You Need to Know

Posted October 08, 2025 in Fat Grafting to the Breast

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In recent years, more individuals are opting for explant surgery, a procedure to remove breast implants. Whether due to health concerns, personal preference, or lifestyle changes, this decision is deeply personal and can be part of a broader journey towards body acceptance and well-being. One complementary procedure that is gaining popularity alongside explantation is fat grafting. This blog post aims to shed light on fat grafting at the time of explant surgery and what you can expect from the process.

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Table of Contents

What Is Fat Grafting?

Fat grafting, also known as fat transfer or lipofilling, is a procedure where fat is harvested from one part of the body (like the abdomen, thighs, or flanks) and injected into another area to add volume or improve contour. In the context of breast explant surgery, fat grafting helps to restore a natural breast shape and volume after implant removal.

Why Consider Fat Grafting with Explant Surgery?

  1. Natural Results: Fat grafting uses your own body’s tissue, which can create a more natural appearance and feel compared to synthetic fillers or implants.
  2. Contour Enhancement: This procedure not only helps enhance breast appearance post-explant but also allows for body contouring in areas where the fat is harvested.
  3. Minimally Invasive: While it involves liposuction and injections, fat grafting is generally less invasive than other reconstructive options.
  4. Versatile: Fat grafting can address specific areas of concern, such as filling in hollows or creating symmetry, tailored to the patient’s needs.

The Downside of Not Fat Grafting at the Time of Implant Removal

  1. Fat grafting into the breasts after explantation supports the empty tissues and prevents the collapse, folding, and permanent deformation of your breasts. Some of these folds and indentations are difficult to fix during later surgeries.
  2. Delaying your fat grafting means you are delaying the day when you are finally happy with the appearance of your breasts. The time between explant and fat grafting can be very distressing for patients when they must live with deformities and asymmetries for at least 5 months.
  3. Delayed fat grafting means that there is a second surgery, second anesthesia, and facility costs. Fat grafting at the time of explantation means you only have one surgery, and you can get on with your life having beautifully reconstructed breasts.  

The Fat Grafting Procedure

  1. Consultation: The process begins with a consultation, preferably with a board-certified plastic surgeon, to discuss your goals, medical history, and the best approach for your needs.
  2. Harvesting Fat: During the explant surgery, fat is harvested through liposuction from predetermined areas of your body.
  3. Processing Fat: The harvested fat is processed and purified to remove any impurities or excess fluids.
  4. Injecting Fat: The purified fat is carefully injected into the breasts to achieve the desired shape and volume.

Recovery and Results

Recovery Time:  Recovery from fat grafting is generally quick, with most patients returning to regular activities within a few weeks. However, recovery may vary depending on the extent of both the explant and fat grafting procedures.

Swelling and Bruising: It’s normal to experience some swelling and bruising in both the donor and recipient sites, which should subside over time.

Fat Grafting Results: The results are typically long-lasting. Patients often notice an improvement in breast shape and fullness as the swelling diminishes.

Considerations and Risks

Realistic Expectations: It’s important to have realistic expectations about the outcome. Fat grafting can enhance breast shape and volume, but can not replicate the exact look of implants.

Potential Risks: As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved, including infection, asymmetry, or fat necrosis, all of which are very rare. Discuss these with Dr. Strawn to understand how they apply to your situation.

Surgeon Expertise: Choose a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon to ensure the best results and minimize risks.

Fat grafting at the time of explant surgery offers a promising option for those looking to restore their natural breast appearance without implants. By understanding the procedure, recovery, and potential outcomes, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your body goals and health priorities.

Ask About Our 40% Off Breast Implant Removal Special in Newport Beach, CA

Whether you opt for immediate or delayed fat grafting, the goal is the same: to help you feel comfortable and confident after explant surgery. The best approach to fat grafting during or after explant surgery for you depends on your preferences and Dr. Jon Strawn’s recommendation. If you’re curious about your breast implant removal and fat grafting options, call Scultura Plastic Surgery today at (949) 612-7231 or complete the online contact form to schedule your Newport Beach breast implant removal and fat transfer consultation. 

Don’t forget to ask about our limited-time, 40% off explant surgery special!