At a Glance
Treats
Small, sagging or shrunken breasts
Anaesthesia
General anaesthetic
Duration
1 hour
Hospital stay
Either a day case or one night stay
Recovery
Most women can return to work in 1-3 weeks
What is Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation?
*Some of our stunning Breast Augmentation Patients
Fat transfer to the breasts, also known as autologous fat grafting or natural breast augmentation, is a procedure that enhances breast size and shape using your own fat.
"I feel more confident than ever, embracing my curves and loving the way I look and feel. No more second-guessing outfits or feeling self-conscious—just pure confidence and self-love."
- Katie B, Breast Augmentation
Fat is gently removed from areas such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks through liposuction. It is then purified and carefully injected into the breasts to create a natural and subtle enhancement, without the use of implants.
Bella Vou provides Breast Augmentation by expert, accredited cosmetic surgeons.
What happens in Breast Fat Transfer Surgery?
Breast Fat Transfer is also known as fat grafting and is a beautiful and natural way to enhance or restore breast volume using your own body fat.
This gentle procedure reshapes your figure by removing unwanted fat from one area, such as the tummy, thighs or flanks. It is then used to create fuller, softer and more naturally contoured breasts.
Firstly, the fat is carefully removed through a light liposuction technique and is then purified to remove any fluids or damaged cells, leaving only the healthiest, most viable fat. Finally, your surgeon will delicately inject this refined fat into your breasts, sculpting a smooth and balanced shape that looks and feels beautifully natural.
Because the procedure uses your own tissue, the results are entirely biocompatible meaning there’s no risk of allergic reaction or rejection. Just you, beautifully refined!
In order to design your bespoke surgical plan, your surgeon will discuss the following options with you:
When considering breast implants, the profile (projection) is just as important as the size. It determines how much the implant protrudes from the chest, impacting the final look.
- High Profile Implants: Narrower base, more forward projection, creating a fuller, rounder appearance with enhanced cleavage. Best for narrower frames, those wanting a dramatic lift, or minimal natural breast tissue.
- Low Profile Implants: Wider base, subtler projection, offering a more natural look with a smoother transition to the chest. Ideal for wider frames or those seeking subtle enhancement.
Your choice depends on your body shape, aesthetic goals, and lifestyle. A skilled surgeon will guide you in selecting the profile that best suits your vision for a balanced, beautiful result.
Keep reading to find out more: High Profile vs. Low Profile Implants: How to Choose the Best Fit for Your Body
Implant shape refers to the overall form or contour of the implant used in breast augmentation. There are a few different shapes available, and the choice of shape can impact the final look and feel of the breast after surgery. Generally, breast implants come in two primary shapes: round and anatomical (also known as teardrop).
Here’s a breakdown of the main types:
1. Round Implants
- Shape: As the name suggests, round implants have a uniform shape with a circular base and full profile.
- Look: These implants create a fuller look in the upper part of the breast, which is great for people wanting more volume at the top. They give a more rounded, "perky" appearance.
- Advantages:
- More symmetrical (if rotated).
- Less likely to lose their shape, even if they rotate inside the breast.
- Typically give a more pronounced, youthful look.
2. Anatomical (Teardrop) Implants
- Shape: These implants are shaped like a teardrop, with more fullness at the bottom and a tapered top, mimicking the natural shape of the breast.
- Look: They offer a more natural breast appearance with gradual volume, especially in women who have little breast tissue or want a more subtle, natural enhancement.
- Advantages:
- Provide a more natural slope and contour.
- Especially ideal for women who want a subtle enhancement or who have little natural breast tissue.
Implant Placement for Breast Augmentation
Implant placement in breast augmentation is a key decision that influences the final look, feel, and recovery process. The two primary options for implant placement are submuscular (under the muscle) and subglandular (over the muscle). Each has its advantages and potential downsides depending on individual goals, body type, and desired results.
1. Submuscular (Under the Muscle) Placement
In this technique, the breast implant is placed underneath the chest muscle (the pectoralis major). The muscle covers the implant, providing an extra layer of tissue between the implant and the skin.
Advantages:
- Natural look & feel: The muscle helps create a softer, more natural appearance.
- Less visible implant edges: The muscle hides the edges, making them less noticeable.
- Lower risk of complications: Submuscular placement is associated with a lower risk of capsular contracture.
- Extra support: The muscle provides additional stability, especially for larger implants.
Considerations:
- Longer recovery: Since the muscle is affected, recovery may take a little longer, with some initial discomfort.
- Temporary limitations: You may experience limited arm movement as the muscle heals.
- Possible movement: The implant can shift with muscle contraction (though this is rare).
2. Subglandular (Over the Muscle) Placement
Description:
In this technique, the implant is placed directly under the breast tissue but above the chest muscle. The implant rests on top of the muscle but underneath the natural breast tissue.
Advantages:
- Faster recovery: Since the muscle isn’t disturbed, recovery is quicker and less painful.
- More natural movement: The implant won’t shift with muscle contractions.
- Ideal for women with sufficient breast tissue: Offers a natural look without needing muscle coverage.
Considerations:
- Visible implant edges: In women with thinner tissue, the edges may be more noticeable.
- Slightly higher risk of capsular contracture: There’s a small chance of scar tissue forming around the implant.
- Firmness: Larger implants may feel less natural compared to submuscular placement.
3. Factors to Consider When Choosing Implant Placement
- Body Type: Those with more natural breast tissue may prefer subglandular placement for a fuller, softer look. For those with less tissue, submuscular placement provides a more natural contour.
- Desired Outcome: For a natural slope, submuscular placement is ideal. If a fuller top or quicker recovery is preferred, subglandular might be the better choice.
- Activity Level: Active individuals may prefer subglandular placement to avoid muscle movement affecting the implants. For a more natural look, submuscular placement may be better.
- Size of Implant: Larger implants often do better under the muscle for added support. Smaller implants may work well over the muscle.
Each option has its unique advantages, and a consultation with your surgeon will help determine the best choice for your specific needs.
Is Breast Fat Transfer Right For Me?
Only you can decide whether this is the right operation for you. It will depend upon the way you perceive your body, and the impact it has on your confidence and your life.
The specialist surgeons will talk you through the risks and benefits of the procedure, and explain the results you can hope to achieve. They may recommend alternative procedures, such as a Breast Uplift if this could provide a better cosmetic outcome.
You must make the choice that is right for you. The team at Bella Vou will give you space and time to make this decision.
Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures, helping individuals enhance their confidence and achieve their desired look. Like any surgery, it comes with both benefits and considerations.
✅ Enhanced Confidence & Self-Esteem
Many patients feel more comfortable and confident in their bodies after breast augmentation, especially if they have always desired a fuller shape.
✅ Customized to Your Goals
With a variety of implant types, sizes, and placement options, your surgeon will ensure the procedure is tailored to achieve your unique aesthetic vision.
✅ Improved Body Proportions
Breast augmentation can help create a more balanced silhouette, enhancing the natural harmony of your figure.
✅ Restoration After Changes
Pregnancy, weight loss, or aging can impact breast volume. Augmentation helps restore a youthful, lifted appearance.
✅ Long-Lasting Results
With proper care, breast implants can provide beautiful, long-term results, giving you confidence for years to come.
While breast augmentation is a safe and commonly performed procedure, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and considerations.
⚖️ Temporary Discomfort & Recovery Time
Like any surgery, there will be some swelling, bruising, and discomfort during the healing process. Most patients return to normal activities within a few weeks.
⚖️ Implant-Related Considerations
Breast implants are not lifetime devices. While they are long-lasting, they may require replacement or revision in the future.
⚖️ Potential for Minor Complications
As with any surgery, there is a small risk of infection, changes in sensation, or slight asymmetry, though these are rare when performed by an experienced surgeon.
⚖️ Regular Monitoring Recommended
It’s important to attend all of your routine check-ups to ensure your healing journey is smooth, successful and hassle-free!
At Bella Vou, we prioritise patient safety, comfort, and satisfaction. Our skilled surgeons will guide you through every step, ensuring you feel confident in your decision. If you’re considering breast augmentation, we’re here to answer all your questions and help you achieve beautiful, natural-looking results.
*Our gorgeous patient Emma, 6-months post Breast Augmentation
Your Simple 5-Step Journey
Step 1: Your Free Consultation – No Pressure, Just Honest Advice
Thinking about breast augmentation? Start with a free, no-obligation chat with one of our expert surgeons at Bella Vou. We’ll talk about your goals, check your natural shape, and see what’s possible – all tailored to you.
You’ll get real advice, a chance to ask anything, and even see before-and-after pics of others like you. Take your time to decide – there’s zero pressure.
Step 2. Meet your surgeon
You will be offered a further appointment with your consultant before proceeding to Breast Augmentation. This will give you a chance to find out more about the procedure, understand the advantages and potential problems of breast enlargement, and to ask any questions you may have.
The specialist surgeon will take your medical history, examine your breasts to check for lumps, and ensure you’re healthy and fit for surgery.
Step 3. Preparation for Breast Augmentation
You’ll be given personalised pre-operative advice to reduce your chance of bleeding or infection and support your healthy recovery.
It’s important to let your surgeon know if you’re on any medications. You may be asked to stop taking aspirin or anti-inflammatories as these can increase the risk of bruising. It’s very important to stop smoking cigarettes and vapes before and after surgery because they can disrupt the healing process!
Your Patient Coordinator will let you know when to fast in preparation for your general anaesthetic, as soon as they’ve set your operation time.
Step 4. Your Procedure
The procedure is done under general anaesthetic, usually as a day case.
Your surgeon will make a small incision in the crease under your breast to keep the scar hidden. Implants are placed either above or below the chest muscle, depending on what suits your body and goals — you’ll decide this together beforehand.
The incision is closed with dissolvable stitches and covered with a light dressing.
Step 5. Recovery from Breast Augmentation
Step 5: Your Recovery
You might stay overnight or head home the same day – no drains needed. Some swelling, bruising, and soreness is normal. You’ll wear a soft compression bra to help with healing and comfort. We’ll manage any pain and support you every step of the way.
At one week, we’ll check your progress. Most swelling eases in 2–3 weeks, and you can slowly return to normal activities after two. Just avoid heavy lifting or intense movement for 4–6 weeks.
At six weeks, your surgeon will review your results, and by three months, your breasts will feel more natural and settled.
Breast Augmentation Healing & Scar Progression
Scars are a natural part of the healing process. The goal is to make your scar as small and discreet as possible. It is important to remember that cosmetic surgery scars and healing progression can vary depending on the type of procedure and the individual's healing process.
STITCH SENSE
The experienced consultant cosmetic surgeons at Bella Vou use stitching techniques and materials designed to reduce discomfort and improve healing.
DISCREET SCARS
The Consultant Cosmetic Surgeons at Bella Vou understand the importance of careful scar placement. Not only do their world-class suturing techniques ensure that the scars are very fine, but they will always make every effort to place scars where they will go unnoticed.
SCAR CLINIC
Throughout your recovery with Bella Vou, you will attend regular sessions with our dedicated Scar Clinic to help support healthy healing. Our in-clinic wound specialists will monitor your progress, assess scar formation, and provide expert care to ensure optimal outcomes.
1 Week
During the first few days after surgery, the incision site will be swollen, bruised, and may ooze a small amount of blood or fluid. It is important to keep the area clean and dry, and follow any instructions given by your surgeon for wound care. You may also experience some pain and discomfort, which can be managed with medication. Right after surgery, breasts appear high and firm due to swelling and implant placement. They may seem unnaturally high on the chest.
6 Weeks
After a week or so, the incision site will begin to form a scar. The scar will be pink or red in color, raised, and firm to the touch. This is a normal part of the healing process and the scar will begin to fade over time. Swelling gradually subsides, and implants start to settle into a lower position. Breasts become softer, and the upper pole fullness decreases.
4 Months
Over the next few weeks and months, the scar will continue to mature and soften. It may change colour and become less noticeable. It is important to avoid exposing the scar to direct sunlight, as this can cause it to darken. As tissues relax, the lower breast begins to fill out, creating a more natural contour. Implants drop further into place, improving shape and symmetry.
5 Months
The final results are beginning to show, the tissues continue to relax, the lower breast continues to fill out, creating a more natural contour. Implants drop further into place, continuing to improve shape and symmetry.
6 Months
The scar will continue to mature and soften. It may change colour and become less noticeable. It is important to avoid exposing the scar to direct sunlight, as this can cause it to darken. The breasts continue to achieve their desired shape. This stage varies by individual, with full results typically realized around one year post-op.
1 Year
The scar will continue to mature and soften, being barely visible, It is important to avoid exposing the scar to direct sunlight, as this can cause it to darken. The breasts have achieved their desired shape, settling into their permanent position.
It is important to follow your surgeon's post-operative instructions carefully and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure the best possible healing and cosmetic results.
BREAST AUGMENTATION TREATMENT OVERVIEW
Many women lean towards Breast Fat Transfer for its subtle and organic results. Using your own fat means your breasts not only look natural but also move naturally with your body. Once the transferred fat establishes its blood supply, it becomes living tissue which means it will behave just like normal fat and will change gently with your weight over time.
Breast implants, by contrast, offer a more predictable size and shape but are not lifelong devices and often require replacement or revision surgery after 10–15 years. Fat transfer results, on the other hand, can be permanent for the fat cells that survive, although the increase in size is typically more modest.
Cost-wise, fat transfer can be slightly higher due to the dual nature of the procedure (liposuction and grafting). In addition, sometimes a second session is recommended for refinement. However, it also offers the unique benefit of contouring another area of your body which gives you a naturally balanced, sculpted result.
In summary, Breast Fat Transfer is ideal for women seeking soft, natural-looking enhancement and subtle reshaping. If you are after a more dramatic and predictable size boost, breast implants would be recommended.
Who is a good candidate for Fat Transfer to Breasts?
Ideal candidates are those who wish for a modest and natural-looking increase in breast size and have enough fat in other areas of the body to use for transfer. Good general health, stable weight and realistic expectations are important. This procedure is especially suited for patients who prefer to avoid implants or want to correct minor asymmetry or contour irregularities.
How much enlargement can I expect?
How long do results last?
What happens to the fat that doesn’t survive?
Is the procedure safe?
Will there be scars after Breast fat transfer surgery?
Can I combine fat transfer with implants?
Will it affect mammograms or breast cancer screening?
Can the transferred fat be used elsewhere?
Bella Vou is a specialist cosmetic surgery provider offering consultant-led care, performed in CQC-registered hospitals, with an uncompromising focus on safety, outcomes, and long-term patient wellbeing.
Our prices reflect the experience of our surgeons, the complexity of modern cosmetic surgery, and the fact that every procedure is delivered as a complete, fully inclusive package — not a headline price with multiple additional costs added later.
At Bella Vou we provide various payment options meaning you can spread the cost and enjoy a confident outlook at a price you can afford.
Please book a complimentary consultation to discuss your exact requirements with our cosmetic surgeons, but typically surgery prices start as shown below
| Procedure | Medical Director | Consultant Specialists |
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Breast Augmentation Before & After
The before and after images below highlight a small selection of the incredible transformations achieved by Bella Vou's expert surgeons.
We hope you can find a similar look to give you an idea of what your results might be. During your initial consultation, your Patient Coordinator will provide access to our exclusive Bella Vou gallery, where you can explore many more surgeon-specific photos.
Medically reviewed by
Last Updated: October 16, 2025
Published On: October 16, 2025
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