Can fat grafting to breasts after double mastectomy promote the regrowth of residual breast tissue and breast cancer?

Question

I have heard that (the stem cells from?) fat grafting to breasts (that have had double mastectomies) can actually promote the re-growth of any residue breast tissue. What is your take on that? Do you think fat grafting can increase the chance recurrence for breast cancer?

Ryan Hoffman, MD · Answer

Fat grafting is the process of taking fat from one part of the body and moving it to another.  Commonly liposuction of the abdomen or thighs harvests the fat.  The fat is then prepared and injected into areas to help the contour of the breasts after a reconstruction.  The grafted fat does not cause regrowth of breast tissue.  It also has not been shown to have any increase in the cancer risk.  Always discussing these issues with your board certified plastic surgeon prior to surgery is recommended.

Ricardo Vega, MD · Answer

Very interesting question. Fat grafting has being in use for several years and every day more surgeons around the world experience its wonderful benefits in different tissues and organs. Fat is considered one of our owns  source of healing tissue. Share your concern  with a certified PS. Now fat tissue is under several researches studies around the world . Nevertheless, at this moment there is no evident of any harmful or whatsoever caused by fat cells transferring. Best Wishes

Adam Bryce Weinfeld, MD · Answer

There were concerns about this in the past that appear to be unfounded.  I am not aware of any studies that would suggest this is a risk.

Jaime Campos Leon, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.I suggest a physical examination or picture evaluation in order to determine which procedure and technique would be best for you.Dr. Campos

Robert Whitfield, MD · Answer

The cells that breast cancer come from are different than the cells being transferred.  In any event the most likely place for recurrence is in the mastectomy scar due to the proximity of the nipple areola complex.   Fat grafting should not increase breast cancer recurrence after mastectomy at all.

Can fat grafting to breasts after double mastectomy promote the regrowth of residual breast tissue and breast cancer?

Answers (8)

Answer: Breast

Answer: Breast

Answer: This should not be the case!

Answer: This should not be the case!

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reconstruction with Fat Transfer

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Can fat grafting to breasts after double mastectomy promote the regrowth of residual breast tissue and breast cancer?

Answers (8)

Answer: Breast

Answer: Breast

Answer: This should not be the case!

Answer: This should not be the case!

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reconstruction with Fat Transfer

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.