When "Just a Lift" Isn't Enough: The Role of Fat Grafting After Explant Surgery

How Fat Grafting Works After Implant Removal

Fat grafting, also called fat transfer, restores lost volume by using purified fat harvested from areas such as the abdomen or hips. Once prepared, the fat is carefully placed into targeted areas of the breast to enhance contour and restore balance. This technique enables precise shaping, particularly in flat or deflated areas following implant removal.

Fat transfer is effective when the upper portion of the breast appears hollow. While a lift improves skin position and firmness, it cannot replace the rounded contours that implants once provided. Fat grafting complements a lift by restoring softness and improving proportion for a more natural-looking shape.

Why Combine Fat Grafting with a Breast Lift After Explant Surgery

Combining a breast lift with fat grafting provides a more complete enhancement after implant removal. The lift reshapes and elevates your breast tissue, while fat grafting restores volume to key areas such as the upper breast or inner curve. Together, they create a softer, more refined appearance without the need for new implants.

When Fat Grafting May Be a Good Fit

Fat grafting may be ideal if your breasts appear smaller or less defined after explant surgery. It’s also an option if you prefer not to replace your implants but still want to regain a fuller, softer contour. This technique can smooth irregularities, fill hollow areas, and support long-term improvements.

What Fat Grafting Can and Cannot Achieve

Fat grafting enhances your breasts’ feel, shape, and symmetry by adding soft, natural volume. It smooths transitions, improves proportion, and helps create balance between your breasts and overall silhouette. While it does not recreate the structure or projection of an implant, it provides a lasting, organic alternative for volume restoration.

Because the body may absorb a portion of the transferred fat, outcomes can vary depending on fat retention, skin elasticity, and existing breast tissue. An additional fat transfer session may help enhance your results.

Dr. Tjelmeland’s Commitment to Lasting Results

Dr. Kelly Tjelmeland’s philosophy centers on delivering results that meet your immediate goals while ensuring long-term satisfaction. He understands that explant surgery and fat grafting represent significant decisions that will impact how you feel about your body for years to come. His meticulous surgical technique, combined with realistic expectation-setting, helps ensure that your results align with your vision both now and in the future.

During your consultation, Dr. Tjelmeland will discuss how factors such as your natural anatomy, skin quality, and lifestyle may impact your results over time. He believes in transparent communication about what fat grafting can achieve, potential touch-up procedures, and how your results may evolve, ensuring you make informed decisions that support your long-term results.

What To Expect at Meridian Plastic Surgery Center

Dr. Tjelmeland, our board-certified plastic surgeon, performs all fat grafting procedures at Meridian Plastic Surgery’s fully accredited on-site surgical center. This private setting offers comfort, discretion, and the convenience of receiving all care in one location. Each treatment plan is carefully customized to address your specific goals while considering factors that will influence your satisfaction years down the road, including your natural anatomy, tissue elasticity, and personal aesthetic preferences.

Discover More About Fat Grafting After Explant Surgery

Fat grafting, when combined with a breast lift, can restore volume and enhance breast shape after implant removal. Using your own tissue provides a natural way to improve symmetry and achieve a more harmonious, balanced appearance.

Learn more about fat grafting after explant surgery at Meridian Plastic Surgery and discover how Dr. Tjelmeland’s thoughtful approach can help you achieve results designed for lasting satisfaction.