After significant weight loss, for example after obesity surgery (bariatric surgery), it is common to experience sagging and loose breasts. This can lead to both physical discomfort and reduced self-esteem. A post-bariatric mastopexy is a breast lift that tightens the skin and shapes the breasts. If you also want more volume, your own body fat can be used to fill the breasts.
Who is this procedure suitable for?
Post-bariatric mastopexy is suitable for you if, after significant weight loss, you have:
- Sagging, empty, or drooping breasts
- Skin problems under the breasts
- Desire for firmer breasts without the use of implants
What is post-bariatric mastopexy with fat grafting?
The procedure involves surgically lifting the breasts by removing excess skin and reshaping the tissue. If you have lost a lot of volume in the upper part of the breast, we can extract fat from another area of the body (such as the stomach, thighs, or flanks) and transplant it to the breasts. This gives a natural result without the use of implants.
Advantages:
- Natural feel and appearance
- No foreign objects
- Simultaneous figure shaping where fat is extracted
Who is this procedure suitable for?
You may be a suitable candidate if:
- You have undergone bariatric surgery and experienced significant weight loss.
- Your weight has been stable for at least 6 months, and at least 2 years have passed since the operation.
- You have a BMI below 35
- You have enough suitable fatty tissue for transplantation.
- You want a breast lift, possibly combined with a moderate increase in volume without implants.
Preparations before surgery
During your consultation with plastic surgeon Dr. Ileana R. Standal, your wishes and medical conditions will be assessed. Before the operation, you must:
- Be smoke-free for at least 6 weeks before and after the procedure.
- Maintain a stable weight and good nutritional status (confirmed by blood tests)
- Refrain from alcohol and certain medications beforehand
- Have realistic expectations regarding results and volume
How is the procedure performed?
The operation is performed under general anesthesia and usually takes 3–4 hours. First, a breast lift is performed, where excess skin is removed and the breast is reshaped. Then, fat is harvested via liposuction from areas with excess fat, before it is purified and injected into the breasts in several layers for the best possible result and duration.
The incisions made during a breast lift are discreet and closed with stitches that either dissolve or are removed as agreed.
After the operation – follow-up care
You can go home the same day or after one night. Swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are normal. After the procedure, you should:
- Wear compression garments over donor sites and compression bras for 6 weeks
- Avoid exercise and heavy lifting for 6–8 weeks.
- Do not expose the transplanted area to pressure, cold, or heat during the first few weeks.
It is normal for some of the fat to be absorbed, and the result stabilizes after 3–6 months.
Risks and possible complications
Common side effects:
- Swelling and bruising
- Reduced sensation in the skin or nipple
Possible complications (rare):
- Fatty deposits (small lumps in the breast)
- Unevenness in donor sites
- Asymmetry or need for fat replenishment
Expected result
You will see lifting and improved shape immediately, but the final result will be visible after approximately 6 months. The fat that survives the initial period will be permanent, but the result may be affected by weight change and age.
Price and financing
Guide price for post-bariatric breast lift with fat grafting: From $75,000
If you meet the criteria in the national guidelines for plastic surgery after obesity surgery, the procedure may be medically justified and exempt from VAT.
We offer partial payment through our partner.
Contact us for consultation
Would you like to know more about breast lifts using your own fat after weight loss? Book a consultation with plastic surgeon Dr. ILeana Rodríguez Standal at TBL Medical. We will give you a safe and honest assessment.
FAQ - Frequently asked questions
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1. How long does the fat that is injected last?
The fat that settles after the first month is permanent. Some loss is normal, and some people want an extra refill after 6–12 months.
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2. Can I choose where the fat is taken from?
The surgeon will assess where it is most suitable to extract fat based on quantity and quality, but your wishes will also be taken into consideration.
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3. Is this safer than implants?
Fat grafting is a very safe option when performed by experienced plastic surgeons and without the use of foreign bodies.
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4. Will I have scars on my chest?
Yes, but they are placed discreetly and fade over time. Fat grafting does not leave any visible scars on the breast.
