Does the Skin Around the Fat Grafting Get Tightened for Reconstructive Breast Procedures?

I have had a bilateral mastectomy, currently have expanders in place and am undergoing radiation. My PS said I would likely have to have fat grafting at the time of implant exchange. My question is this, will the surgeon repair the skin in the area of fat extraction? I won't mind having a little fat removed from my tummy, but after having twins, don't want any more extra skin.

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3 Doctor Answers | Asked by survivinginkc in missouri

Doctor Answers (3)
Community Comments (0)

Skin from fat graft harvest may or may not snap back.

If your skin has good elasticity then it will snap back. If it doesn't, it won't. Ask your surgeon who examined you what he/she thinks.

Fat transfer

Fat transfer donor sites are harvested with liposuction like cannulas. The donor site can be left alone or if it is the abodmen and you want a tummy tuck that might be an option.

Steven Wallach, MD

12 reviews

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

You do not need repair at the donor site

Fat will be harvested with liposuction and the donor site does not need any special treatment. You should wait at least 3-6 months post radiation before have your expanders removed and replaced with implants.