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Is Fat Grafting The Right Choice For My Breast Reconstruction?

asked 5 months ago by Yvonne in N.M. in Santa Fe N.M
Latest answer by J. Jason Wendel, MD
Question viewed 165 times
Tags: alternative, candidate, fat graft, implant

On Sept 28 2011 I had a DIEP Flap procedure performed. I had a bi-lateral Mastectomy due to breast cancer. Underwent Chemo and Radiation. After the DIEP Flap procedure my Dr told me that I needed two sessions of fat grafting. I have read that your body can reabsorb the fat. I am on the thin side to begin with and dont have alot of fat to work with so am wondering if fat grafting does not work if a implant can be put in? My right breast has a hard lump I was told its fat necrosis and will go away

6 answers to Is Fat Grafting The Right Choice For My Breast Reconstruction?

+1

Fat grafting for revision reconstruction

Yes, fat grafting is an accepted technique and can improve the contour of your breast. Yes, some of that fat may be resorbed and you may need more than one session. You may also ask your surgeon if you are a candidate for an implant. Both implants and fat grafting can be more difficult on the side of radiation because the implant has a higher chance of developing a hard and/or painful scar and if you have poorer circulation from radiation, not as much fat may... more
J. Jason Wendel, MD

Nashville Plastic Surgeon

www.mc.vanderbilt.edu

+1

Is Fat Grafting The Right Choice For My Breast Reconstruction?

Fat grafting in breast reconstruction is a newer reconstructive option. There are very few surgeons offering this technique. Best is to see one. I think it is just beginning to be accepted. I use the "layering technique" of Dr Syd Coleman.
Darryl J. Blinski, MD

Miami Plastic Surgeon
+1

Fat Grafting Can Improve Shape and Size

Fat grafting can improve shape, contour irregularities and fullness of the breast after reconstruction. Unfortunately not all of the grafted fat will survive and some will reabsorb. Even with overcorrection it is common to have to repeat fat grafting. It sounds as if your doctor has offered a very reasonable plan, and I would not rush to have an implant placed. Best,
Jeremiah Redstone, MD

New York Plastic Surgeon
+1

Fat grafting and breast reconstruction

Fat grafting is used commonly in breast reconstruction to improve the look of the breasts and to correct minor deformities. Its use in cosmetics surgery is gaining popularity but still in its early phases and long term results are been evaluated. The concept of having a flap reconstruction with a DIEP flap is to use your own tissue and avoid the need for implants!!! But if needed it is possible to place implants later (6 months or longer after the reconstruction with the flap ! Good Luck!!!! more
Tal T. Roudner, MD

Coral Gables Plastic Surgeon
+1

Is fat grafting for breast reconstrucion effective?

Fat grafting is a powerful tool in breast reconstruction. Even in thin patients, a good amount of fat can be obtained for grafting. It is ideal for shaping and enlarging in both breast reconstruction and breast cosmetic procedures. The amount of fat survival ranges between 50-80 percent. Implants can also be placed after a TRAM or DIEP reconstruction, but would wait at least 6-12 months before proceding.
Frank Agullo, MD

El Paso Plastic Surgeon
+1

Fat grafting after breast reconstruction

Fat grafting can sometimes help fill areas that the flap could not. This helps with overall contour, but because fat grafting does not take 100% this often has to be repeated.
Steven Wallach, MD

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

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