Fat Transfer Breast
Augmentation Chicago –
Natural Breast Enhancement

Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation in Chicago

If you want to enhance your breast size but prefer to avoid implants, fat transfer breast augmentation may be the right option for you.

This procedure uses your own body fat to create a subtle, natural increase in breast volume while also contouring areas such as the abdomen, flanks, or thighs.

At DMR Aesthetics in Chicago, Dr. Dahlia Rice, a board-certified plastic surgeon, performs fat transfer breast augmentation with a focus on natural shape, proportion, and long-term balance.

Contact female plastic surgeon Dr. Dahlia Rice today at (312) 600-5435 to schedule a consultation at her Chicago, Il office.

Table of Contents

What Is Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation?

Fat transfer breast augmentation, also known as natural breast augmentation, is a procedure that enhances breast size and shape using your own body fat.

Fat is removed from another area of the body using liposuction
The fat is processed and purified
It is then carefully injected into the breasts

Instead of implants, this procedure uses your own fat cells to create a more natural look and feel.

Why Patients Choose Fat Transfer Over Implants

Many patients ask if they can enhance their breasts without implants—and for the right candidate, this can be an excellent option.

Common reasons include:

Desire for a more natural look and feel
Avoiding foreign materials or implants
Only needing a modest increase in size (typically about ½ to 1 cup size)
Interest in contouring other areas of the body at the same time

Important: This procedure is best suited for patients seeking refinement, not a dramatic size increase.

Meet…

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon – Dr. Dahlia Rice

Dr. Dahlia Rice is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in body contouring and natural-looking results.

Her approach to fat transfer includes:

Strategic fat harvesting to create smoother donor areas
Careful purification to support fat survival
Precise placement to enhance symmetry and shape

The goal: enhance your natural proportions, not create an artificial result.

About Dr. Dahlia Rice

Board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
Founder of DMR Aesthetics Chicago
Medical degree from Rush Medical College, Chicago
Integrated Plastic Surgery Residency at the University of Rochester Medical Center
General Surgery training at Michigan State University
Master’s degree in Biomedical Science with a focus in Neurology
Specializes in natural, refined cosmetic and reconstructive procedures

DMR Aesthetics Chicago Dr Dahlia Rice Breast Augmentation Surgeon

Patient Testimonials

Discover Why Patients Trust Dr. Dahlia Rice

    
 
 
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   Kelsey 
 42 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Cannot recommend Dr. Rice enough! She’s truly an expert at what she does. Not only is she an amazing surgeon but she always makes me feel safe, comfortable, and at ease. She’s communicative and let me text her questions any time so I never felt unsure or anxious at any point before, during, or after my procedure. You are getting the best of the best with her.
  
 
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   Hannah 
 62 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. If you have a specific outcome in mind and you're hesitant about choosing the right provider for something so important, keep reading. Dr. Rice was incredibly professional and knowledgeable. Sometimes in a provider that also means you lose personability, but this was not the case. Her demeanor was kind, witty, and comfortable! I felt supported through the entire process from consultation to payment to procedure day. I had chin liposuction performed in-office in 2025. The recovery was minimal and exactly as Dr. Rice described. As the months passed, I continued to notice improvements, but now, 7 months later, I absolutely love my results. The difference in my side profile—especially my jawline—has been significant, and I'm so happy I chose to move forward with the procedure. I would absolutely recommend Dr. Rice to anyone considering chin liposuction or looking for a provider who combines skill with genuine compassion.
  
 
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   Meeghan Smith 
 64 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Rice is truly exceptional. As a 2026 bride (September!) who recently moved back to Chicago, finding someone I could completely trust with my face for Botox and filler felt overwhelming. After seeing Dr. Rice, I honestly can't imagine going to anyone else. Not only is she incredibly skilled and knowledgeable, but she genuinely cares about her patients. She took the time to listen to my concerns, answer every question, and made me feel completely comfortable throughout the entire process. Her warmth, empathy, and sense of humor made the experience just as enjoyable as the results themselves. I've had less-than-great experiences in the past, so finding a physician who values a natural, personalized approach has been invaluable. Every time I leave her office, I feel refreshed, confident, and like the best version of myself. If you're looking for the very best in the Chicagoland area, I cannot recommend Dr. Rice highly enough.
  
 
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   Patricia Zavala 
 109 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Natural results🤩
  
 
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   KT Heins 
 119 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Rice is not only an excellent and thoughtful doctor, but also someone who practices real empathy and patience with her patients. I initially scheduled a consultation with her, but due to another appointment running over, I had to leave early to get to work, miss my botox treatment, and was understandably frustrated. Dr. Rice personally took the time to email me afterward to apologize, and that level of care and accountability truly made a difference. I decided to return for my appointment, and I’m so glad I did. The results were incredible, and the entire experience afterward completely restored my confidence. I highly recommend Dr. Rice to anyone looking for both exceptional results and compassionate care.
  
 
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   Mariana Colin 
 141 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Rice was amazing throughout my cosmetic procedure experience. She took the time to explain everything clearly, answered all of my questions, and made me feel comfortable and informed every step of the way. Her professionalism, kindness, and attention to detail made the whole process so positive. I truly felt cared for and would highly recommend her.
  
 
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   Paula Bernal 
 151 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am so happy to see that Dr. Rice has opened up her own clinic in Chicago. I have worked with her for years. She fixed  my lips and does an amazing job every time! She also administers my Botox and has educated me so much on skincare. I can't wait to do skinpen and peels in the winter!
  
 
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   Angela Nesci 
 153 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve trusted Dr. Rice with several procedures, and her level of talent and consistency truly sets her apart. She has a refined eye for detail and balance, which is clearly reflected in her results. Most recently, I underwent facial fat grafting and couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome—it’s subtle, beautifully balanced, and incredibly natural. I would highly recommend her to anyone considering facial fat grafting, especially if you’re seeking a refreshed, natural-looking result.
  
 
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   Mely Gonzalez 
 153 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr.Dahlia has made my experience being a patient extremely safe. I have gotten chin lipo and loved my results! I recommend her always if you want honesty, care, and excellent results. ❤️
  
 
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   Vince Kelly 
 183 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr Rice is absolutely AMAZING!!!! Not only is she the best in her profession, she is so knowledgeable, confident and caring you can’t help but feel confident with her. If you are even considering getting anything done. Just have a consult with her. She’s completely pressure free and will educate you to allow you to make the right decision. Can’t recommend her enough.
  
 
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   Lindsey Subrinsky 
 215 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. There truly are not enough words to describe how exceptional Dr. Rice is. Choosing her for my procedures was one of the best decisions I have ever made, and I share that with deep gratitude. I underwent a neck lift, upper and lower blepharoplasty, and a very complex breast surgery that included a reduction, lift, Motiva implants, and mesh support, essentially a built-in internal bra. This was also my third breast surgery, so I came into this experience with a lot of perspective and very high expectations. After two previous surgeries with another surgeon that still left me far larger than I wanted, I knew how important it was to find someone with true technical mastery, vision, and precision. From the very first consultation, Dr. Rice made me feel completely heard, respected, and safe. She listened carefully to my goals, understood the nuances of my prior surgeries, and approached my case with an incredible level of thoughtfulness and detail. She never rushed me, explained everything thoroughly, and set realistic expectations while still instilling total confidence. The results are beyond anything I could have imagined. They are natural, beautifully proportioned, and truly life-changing. My neck and eyes look refreshed and elegant, not overdone, and my breast results are exactly what I had hoped for after years of trying to get it right. The internal mesh support alone has been transformative in terms of shape, lift, and long-term stability. Dr. Rice combines extraordinary surgical skill with meticulous attention to detail and genuine care for her patients. She holds herself to an incredibly high standard, and it shows in every aspect of her work and patient experience. If you are looking for a surgeon who delivers not only stunning results but also compassion, honesty, and precision, Dr. Rice is simply in a league of her own. I am profoundly grateful for her expertise and the life-changing work she has done for me.
  
 
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   A C 
 222 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr Rice performed a fat transfer to my breast and a tummy tuck almost three years ago. I’m 61 and have three children. So if you had kids, you know that upper fat is gone! I now have breasts that look better than when I was a teenager! Perky and Very Full still I had a few mammograms and did not mention the transfer, and they all came out great. I only lost around 30% of the initial fat. I was a fried egg flat  A/B cup and now I’m a full C cup with cleavage and everything!!! The top half is full and seamless , no indentations of fakeness at all!! Now  to the tummy tuck Girllll my tummy is snatched!! navel looks great and my scar looks like the V you have while wearing a thong!!! Flat, thin and smooth Oh and I forgot to mention, she removed the fat from my back, so my waist is snatched  too! I cannot thank her enough. So if you’re thinking about any of these procedures, she is the best. She’s  professional, knowledgeable, caring, kind, easy to talk to and cute too! Just like having your  girlfriend taking care of you. She is that girl!!
  
 
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   Kayla Soto 
 224 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I won a lip filler giveaway and my experience from beginning to end was amazing. Dr. Dahlia and Paula are so sweet, very thorough, and kept me informed along every step of the way. We did before and after pictures and the results were stunning. I’m so happy with the way my lips came out and have loved wearing lipstick again. I am looking forward to going back to DMR for any other cosmetic procedures I may want in the future. Thank you ladies!!!!
  
 
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   Joanna Jaros, MD 
 226 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Rice is kind, thorough and has great attention to detail. She really cares about her patients. Recommend!
  
 
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   Shari Gilblair 
 229 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am glad that I found Dr Rice. She has the best bedside manor. She is up on the lastest procedures. She also cares about your pain and managing it. I was never in pain. She takes time and answers all your questions.

More Patient Reviews

Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may be a strong candidate for fat transfer breast augmentation if you:

Want a subtle increase in breast size
Have enough excess fat available for transfer
Prefer a natural alternative to implants
Are in good overall health

Important: If you are looking for a larger increase in size, breast implants may be a better option.

A consultation helps determine the most appropriate approach for your goals.

How the Procedure Is Performed

Fat transfer breast augmentation is a two-part procedure:

Step 1: Liposuction

Fat is gently removed from areas such as:

Abdomen
Flanks (love handles)
Thighs

Step 2: Fat Injection

The harvested fat is:

Purified
Carefully injected into the breasts in layers

This technique helps maximize fat survival and create a smooth, natural contour.

Most procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, under anesthesia, and completed within a few hours.

Results: What Patients Notice

Patients typically see:

A modest increase in breast size
Improved shape and fullness
A softer, more natural feel compared to implants
Slimming and contouring in the donor areas

Key difference: this procedure enhances what you already have—it does not create an artificial look.

How Long Do Results Last?

Not all of the transferred fat will survive after the procedure.

Typically, about 60–80% of the fat survives long-term
The remaining fat is naturally absorbed by the body

Once the fat establishes a blood supply, results are considered long-lasting.

Maintaining a stable weight helps preserve your results over time.

Recovery & Downtime

Recovery involves both the breasts and the donor areas where fat was removed.

What to expect:

Swelling and bruising for about 1–2 weeks
Mild discomfort in the liposuction areas
Return to work within approximately one week

Patients are typically advised to:

Avoid pressure on the breasts during early healing

Wear compression garments for the donor areas

Full results develop gradually over several months as swelling resolves and the fat stabilizes.

Risks & Safety

Fat transfer breast augmentation is safe when performed by an experienced surgeon, but it does carry potential risks.

Fat resorption (partial loss of volume)
Fat necrosis (small, firm areas)
Infection (rare)
Asymmetry

Choosing an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon is key to minimizing these risks.

Dr. Rice discusses all risks and expectations in detail during your consultation so you can make a fully informed decision.

Fat Transfer vs Breast Implants

This is one of the most important decision points for patients.

Fat Transfer

Natural look and feel
No implants or foreign materials
Modest increase in size

Breast Implants

More dramatic size change
More predictable volume
May require maintenance or replacement over time

Many patients choose fat transfer for a subtle, natural enhancement.

Cost of Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation in Chicago

Pricing varies based on several factors, including:

The amount of fat required
The number of areas treated
The complexity of the procedure

Pricing is customized for each patient.

During your consultation, Dr. Rice will evaluate your goals, determine candidacy, and provide accurate, personalized pricing.

Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation FAQ

Does Fat Transfer to Breasts Last?

Fat transfer breast augmentation (fat injections in boobs) results are permanent.

What Is the Downside to Fat Transfer Breasts?

Sagging and loose skin is inevitable due to factors such as aging, significant fat loss, pregnancy, etc., following a natural breast fat transfer procedure. The typical solution for addressing sagging involves combining breast lift and fat grafting.

How Many Sizes Can I Go Up with This Surgical Procedure?

In most cases, a fat transfer procedure can only increase the volume of the breasts by approximately half to one cup size.

What Is the Best Age for A Breast Augmentation?

Most patients for this surgical procedure range between the late 30’s and early 80’s.

Do you wear a bra after fat transfer?

Post-surgery, patients should wear a supportive sports bra or compression garment as recommended by their surgeon. This helps maintain the natural appearance of results while the body heals and supports the newly placed fat. Proper support is essential during recovery to protect the grafted tissue and ensure the best possible outcome from your procedure.

How Much Should I Weigh for Breast Augmentation?

If your BMI is a minimum of 22 and you are within 30% of the ideal body weight, there is no need for any specific preparation before undergoing your fat transfer treatment.

How Much Does the Fat Transfer to Breast Procedure Cost?

Generally, this particular procedure falls within the range of $3,000 to $11,000. On average, the cost of the operation is around $6,600.

Are Breast Implants Cheaper Than Fat Grafting?

As you undergo two surgical procedures simultaneously, the total expense might exceed that of a typical breast implant surgery. You should consult your physician to decide if saline implants, silicone implants or breast augmentation is right for you.

Are you awake for breast fat transfer?

Typically, breast fat transfer procedures are performed under general anesthesia or IV sedation, so patients are not awake during the surgery. The minimally invasive nature of fat grafting offers enhanced comfort throughout the process. Cosmetic surgeons prefer this approach to ensure patient safety while the transferred fat cells are carefully injected into breast tissue for optimal placement and results.

Why Patients Choose DMR Aesthetics

Board-certified plastic surgeon
Specialized in natural-looking results
Personalized treatment plans
Expertise in both body contouring and breast procedures
Chicago-based boutique practice

Learn More About Breast Augmentation Options

Explore these resources to better understand your options and what to expect:

Schedule Your Consultation

If you are looking for a natural way to enhance your breasts without implants, schedule a consultation with Dr. Dahlia Rice at DMR Aesthetics Chicago.

📍 Chicago, IL
📞 (312) 600-5435

References

https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/articles/six-of-the-most-common-areas-that-plastic-surgeons-do-fat-transfers

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24033-fat-transfer-breast-augmentation

Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation Chicago – Natural Breast Enhancement