What is a Hybrid Breast Augmentation?
A hybrid breast augmentation involves using both breast implants and fat transfer to enlarge the breast. Also known as a composite breast augmentation or breast implants with fat transfer, this procedure is an advancement of the traditional breast augmentation process. It has had high patient satisfaction due to its ability to optimise the upper pole fullness and volume of the breast.
Hybrid breast augmentation could be the ideal treatment option for patients looking for natural breast enlargement results. By using both implants and fat transfer, it allows the surgeons full control over reshaping the breast which they wouldn’t be able to achieve with implants alone.
The advanced technique could be hugely beneficial for patients with limited existing breast tissue or patients who have breast asymmetry.
Benefits of Hybrid Breast Augmentation
- Suitable for a larger number of patients in comparison to breast fat transfer alone.
- Customisable procedure.
- Minimises trauma to the skin by using smaller implants.
- Get the appearance of a larger implant without the weight.
- Can correct asymmetry without the need for different-sized implants.
- Can help to conceal the edges of the implant for patients with limited existing breast tissue.
- Full-body sculpting benefits
- Use of smaller breast implants
How is a Hybrid Breast Augmentation Procedure performed?
Hybrid / Composite breast augmentation is a multi-step procedure that combines the benefits of breast fat transfer and breast implants.
- The procedure is carried out in a hospital under general anaesthetic.
- A liposuction procedure is carried out to extract fat from areas of the body, usually the thighs, abdomen, and/or flanks.
- The extracted fat is washed and purified using a centrifuge or special filtration to prepare the fat cells.
- An incision will be made within the natural fold underneath the breast.
- A breast implant pocket is created, and a breast implant is inserted into the breast usually above the muscle (subpectoral).
- Once the implants are in place, the incision is closed using dissolvable sutures.
- The harvested fat is then injected using specialised cannulas into the marked areas of the breast.
- A surgical bra will then also be placed onto the patient, which must be worn during your recovery period.
- You will then be taken back to your hospital room to rest for 1-3 hours.
- Once the surgeon and medical team are happy that you are safe you return home, you will be discharged and allowed to leave accompanied by a family member or friend.
Hybrid Breast Augmentation Recovery & Aftercare
The hybrid breast augmentation procedure is carried out in such a way as to minimise the post-operative recovery period however your recovery time may be slightly longer than a typical breast augmentation recovery as you will also be recovering from a liposuction procedure.
Discomfort following your procedure is to be expected from both the breasts and the areas where fat was taken. You will be provided with postoperative antibiotics and painkillers, which must be taken as per your surgeon’s instructions.
Bruising and swelling are likely to be present for at least 1-3 weeks. We recommend that you wait at least 4, but ideally 6 weeks before exercising or taking part in any rigorous physical activity.
In most cases, patients can return to work after one week as bruising and swelling will have reduced and settled by then.
Patients should ideally sleep on their back for at least the first 3 to 4 weeks after surgery to prevent implant malposition or premature fat loss.
A post-operative bra will be provided following your procedure, this should be worn at all times, aside from bathing/showering for 6 weeks.
FAQS
Am I suitable for a Hybrid Breast Augmentation?
Patients who are best suited to a Hybrid Breast Augmentation are patients who are looking for a natural-looking breast augmentation. They should have realistic expectations of what to expect from the procedure.
To be suitable you must also have enough fat reserves for the liposuction procedure. We do not recommend gaining weight purposely for the procedure as this is not healthy. You must also have good physical and mental health.
The best way to find out if you are suitable for hybrid breast augmentation is to visit us for a no-obligation consultation with our expert breast surgeons who will give you a full explanation of your options to achieve your desired result.
Why Do People choose Composite Breast Augmentation instead of just Implants or Fat Transfer?
Composite breast augmentation offers a unique blend of advantages that can be tailored to meet the various needs and desires of patients.
The hybrid approach allows for a high degree of customisation that can’t be achieved with implants or fat transfer alone.
Whilst fat transfer is an attractive option, it is only really suited to patients who only want a small change in volume to the breast and the results can vary between patients. Combining fat transfer with a small implant can guarantee enough of an increase in breast size, whilst still using a fat transfer to make up the rest of the volume and shape of the breast.
Likewise, an implant alone is a great option to increase breast size with a variety of types, sizes and shapes available. However, a breast implant can only increase the volume of the breast, if there are any types of irregularities between the breasts it can be difficult to solve this with implants alone and often implants can only make asymmetry more prominent. A combination of fat transfer can help to achieve a more symmetrical appearance of the breasts.
It is also a great option for those with limited existing breast tissue as the transferred fat can help to soften the appearance of the implant and reduce the risk of rippling or the edges of the implant being noticeable.
What are the risks and complications of hybrid breast augmentation?
As with all types of cosmetic surgery, hybrid breast augmentation does carry risks.
All patients will be made aware of the potential risks associated with their procedure during their consultation process.
Risks of hybrid breast augmentation include infection, fat necrosis, capsular contraction, breast implant rupture, post-operative haemorrhage, breast asymmetry and change in nipple sensitivity.
The risk of complications following hybrid breast augmentation can be significantly reduced by following all preoperative and postoperative care instructions provided by your surgeon. This includes not smoking for at least four weeks.
Related: Breast Implant Safety
How much does a Hybrid Breast Augmentation cost?
Hybrid Breast Augmentation London Cost & Prices
The overall cost of a hybrid/composite breast augmentation procedure will vary from patient to patient. This is because it is a customisable procedure and factors such as the patient’s anatomy, the type of implant to be used, the extent of surgical correction required, and the expertise of the surgeon will all impact the cost of surgery.
To receive a detailed quote for the cost of composite/hybrid breast augmentation, it is best to book a consultation with one of our expert breast surgeons.
During your consultation, your surgeon will discuss your needs and goals, assess your suitability, and provide information on your best options.
View more Breast Fat Transfer FAQs
View more Breast Enlargement with Implants FAQs
Expert Breast Surgeons
- Mr Adrian Richards, Consultant Plastic Surgeon, MBBS, MSc, FRCS (Plast.), GMC Number: 3286812
- Mr Davood Fallahdar, MD&Surg (Hons), FRCS (Eng), Chir Plast (Hons), MicroSurg (Hons), ORL (H&N) GMC Number: 4686602
- Mr Adel Fattah, BSc (Hons), PhD, MB BChir, FRCS (Plast). GMC Number: 4764599
- Mr Dario Rochira, BS, MD. GMC Number : 6130664
- Mr Navid Jallali, BSc, MB ChB (Hons), MD FRCS (Plast). GMC Number: 4404969
- Ms Helena Antoniadou, MBBS, MD & Surg (Hons), FRCS (Eng). GMC Number: 3700956
- Mr Maisam Fazel, MA(Cantab), MB BChir, MSEd, FRCS. GMC Number : 4767420
- Mr Giuseppe Di Taranto, MD. GMC Number: 7614248
- Sandip Hindocha – Consultant Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon, MD, MPhil, MBChB, MRCS, MFFLM, FRCS (Plast). GMC Number: 6122218
- Ms Rieka Taghizadeh, MBChb, MRCS (Glas), FRCS (Plast), GMC Number: 4743910
- Mr Waseem Bhat, MD, MA, MRCS, MSc, FRCS, Dipl Hand Surgeon, GMC Number: 6070768
- Mr George Samouris, MD. GMC Number: 7064009
Breast Surgery at The Private Clinic
Medical Expertise
The Private Clinic has been treating patients for over 40 years with thousands of women placing their trust in us each year. We have the Top UK-specialised best breast surgeons with decades of experience.
Outstanding Care
Giving you the best possible results and care is our priority. We provide dedicated care with your expert breast surgeon and nursing team, and a 24-hour helpline so you are always in the best of hands.
Patient Satisfaction
We have one of the highest TrustPilot 5 star ratings due to our focus on patient care and quality results. 98% of our patients would recommend us to their friends and family.
Book a consultation
To find out more about our Breast Augmentation options or to book an appointment with our specialists give us a call on 0333 920 2471 or use our online contact form.
Sources
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Aesthetic Surgery Journal – Hybrid Implant and Grafted Fat Breast Augmentation: Designing the Pathway to a Future With Breasts Free of Silicone Breast Implants
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Aesthetic Magazine – Patient Selection for Hybrid Breast Augmentation