Fat Transfer (Lipo-Modeling) for Breast and Body Contouring 

Autologous fat transfer, or lipo-modeling, is a natural alternative to traditional breast augmentation and body contouring. This technique uses your own fat, harvested through liposuction from areas like the abdomen, thighs, or back, and injects it into the breasts or other areas requiring volume enhancement. It’s commonly used to:

• Enhance breast shape post-reconstruction
• Correct contour irregularities
• Improve skin quality, especially after radiotherapy

Advantages of Fat Transfer

There are a number of advantages associated with fat transfer or lipo-modeling breast augmentation compared with implant augmentation. Unlike implant augmentation, where an incision has to be made, fat transfer involves fat being injected through 1-2mm holes using syringes/cannulae. This leaves scars that are inconspicuous once settled. After the swelling has reduced and the injected fat is revascularized, the result of the augmentation is permanent. The fat in the breast now behaves like other fatty tissue and can change with weight, hormones and age. This means no further surgery is required except if the patient requires further volume augmentation.

This is in contrast to implant augmentation where the implant is likely to require an exchange at some point in the future. One thing to bear in mind is that with the fat transfer technique, patients will need to have an excess of fatty tissue that can be harvested. This can be from their abdomen, thigh and back and therefore, may not suit all patients.

• Minimal scarring: Tiny incisions (1–2mm) ensure virtually invisible scars.
• Natural results: No need for future replacements, though additional sessions may be required for more volume.
• Long-lasting: Once the fat establishes a blood supply, the results are permanent.

Fat Transfer vs. Implants

• Fat Transfer: More natural feel, minimal scarring, and no need for future replacements, but requires sufficient fat to harvest.
• Implants: Provide more dramatic volume in one procedure but may need replacing over time and can cause skin stretching or rippling.

Hybrid Augmentation

Combining implants with fat transfer can offer the best of both worlds. Implants provide volume, while fat transfer softens the overall look and improves contour, allowing for a more natural, customized result.

You can view full surgical VIDEOS on this procedure on Mr Mark Ho-Asjoe's YouTube Channel or why not read his latest blog - Breast Augmentation procedure with Fat Transfer.

Other options available

Of course, the choice of technique to achieve volume augmentation using fat or implants is a personal one. It is important to have a thorough consultation with your Plastic Surgeon. This allows you to discuss your wishes and any concerns you may have and help you to make the right decision.

The more common technique of implant augmentation is still more popular than fat transfer or lipo-modeling. Implant augmentation uses either a silicone- or saline-filled implant that is inserted into the breast pocket through a small incision. Since the implant is manufactured, liposuction is not needed. Thus, the post-operative discomfort is less limited to the breast region. Since the volume of the implant is limited, it simply means a bigger volume increment can be attained in a single operation in comparison to fat transfer.

However, large implant augmentation can produce a very unnatural appearance with excess lateral projection, excessive upper pole fullness and animation in those patients with submuscular implant placement. Stretching of the breast tissue and skin can lead to skin rippling and striae (stretch marks). It is important to realize implants are not permanent and will need to be exchanged at some point in time. Some issues need to be clarified before proceeding with implant augmentation and your surgeon will explain those to you.

Why Choose Mr Mark Ho-Asjoe?

• Mr Mark Ho-Asjoe has 25 years of experience in reconstructive plastic surgery and within the NHS and in his private practice.
• Located in the heart of London, offering personalised care in a professional clinic setting.
• We offer full support from your initial consultation to your aftercare.
• As member and former trustee of BAAPS, and listed on the GMC Specialist Register, Mr Ho-Asjoe’s approach is grounded in safety, precision, and natural-looking results.
• Commitment to excellence in both reconstructive and aesthetic outcomes.

Book a consultation with Mr Mark Ho-Asjoe to discuss your goals and a surgery plan tailored just for you. Call 0207 403 8694 or email - enquiry@markhoasjoe.co.uk.