Key questions to ask before fat transfer breast augmentation include whether your surgeon is on the GMC Specialist Register in Plastic Surgery, how much volume is realistic for you, how much fat is likely to be reabsorbed, how the procedure may affect breast screening, where the surgery will take place and what follow-up and revision arrangements are offered.
Getting the most from your consultation
Fat transfer to the breasts is a nuanced procedure: the outcome depends on your fat reserves, skin quality and how well the grafted fat survives. A good consultation should give you a clear view of what is realistic and what the alternatives are. Before you go, jot down your goals, any breast history in you or your family and the medicines or supplements you take. Consider bringing a friend or partner. Cosmetic surgery is for adults aged 18 and over.
About the surgeon’s credentials
- Is the surgeon on the GMC Specialist Register in Plastic Surgery?: the answer should be a clear yes, and you can check it on the GMC website.
- What specialist qualifications are held?: FRCS (Plast) is the recognised UK specialist qualification in plastic surgery.
- Is the surgeon a BAAPS or BAPRAS member?: membership shows engagement with professional standards and safety guidance.
- How often does the surgeon perform breast fat grafting?: a good answer describes regular experience with both fat transfer and implant surgery, so you get balanced advice.
Mr Reza Nassab is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon on the GMC Specialist Register, holds FRCS (Plast) and serves on the BAAPS Council.
About suitability and expectations
- Is there enough fat to harvest in my case?: expect an honest answer after examination, including if there is not enough.
- What size change is realistic?: a good surgeon will describe a modest range rather than promise a specific cup size.
- How much of the fat is likely to survive?: the answer should acknowledge variation between individuals and that part of the graft is always reabsorbed.
- Might a second session be needed?: some patients need or choose a further session; this should be discussed openly.
- Would implants or a lift suit me better?: look for a surgeon willing to recommend an alternative if it fits your goals more closely.
About technique, safety and screening
- Which donor areas will be used?: the choice should reflect where you have spare fat and any contour benefit.
- How is the fat processed and placed?: expect an explanation of placing small amounts in many layers to improve survival.
- How might fat transfer affect mammograms?: a good answer explains that calcifications or oil cysts can appear on imaging, that they can usually be distinguished from concerning changes and that you should continue screening.
- Is a scan needed before surgery?: depending on age and history, baseline breast imaging may be advised.
- Where will the operation take place?: the hospital should be registered with the Care Quality Commission, with a consultant anaesthetist.
About aftercare, cost and revision
Ask how many follow-up appointments are included, who to contact out of hours and when the result will be assessed, typically at three to six months. Clarify what happens if the breasts are uneven or lumps develop and whether a further session or treatment would carry an extra charge. Request a written quote itemising the surgeon, anaesthetist, hospital, garments and routine follow-up. At this practice the consultation fee of £150 is charged separately, and fat transfer breast augmentation is from £12,500.
Warning signs in a consultation
Be cautious if you are promised a particular cup size, if questions about screening or fat survival are brushed aside, if there is pressure to book with a discount or deadline, or if you are not told who will perform the operation. Packages abroad that expect you to fly home within days leave you without local aftercare and increase the risk of blood clots. Take time to reflect, and consider a second consultation before deciding.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should the gap be between consultation and surgery?
A cooling-off period of at least two weeks is recommended, giving time to consider the information and ask further questions.
Should previous breast imaging be brought along?
Yes. Previous mammogram or ultrasound reports help the surgeon plan safely and provide a baseline for future comparison.
What does the consultation cost?
The consultation with Mr Nassab costs £150, which is charged separately and not included in the surgical price.
Is it reasonable to ask about implants at a fat transfer consultation?
Yes. A balanced consultation should cover the alternatives, including implants, so that you can choose the option that best suits your goals.
