My doctor wants to use my previous nipple scar to inject fat into my breast. Is this safe and reasonable?

If the patient’s previous scars fall within good access sites then I use them. This is especially true for common periareolar scars. So, using a previous scar is very reasonable and acceptable.

Thanks so much for your inquire, using your previous nipple (areolar) scar to inject fat into the breast can be safe and is a common technique—especially when done by a skilled plastic surgeon.

If your doctor is experienced and you're well-healed, this approach makes a lot of sense.

Sincerely,
Dr. Emmanuel Mallol

Without any photos, based off what you have stated, the old scar you have would only be the entry of where the cannula of the fat syringe would enter. Assuming your surgeon is using cannulas attached to syringes with your harvested fat to graft, there only needs to be a small skin incision to enter in order to inject the fat where it needs to go. So that part is safe. If the plan is to inject fat to help with an old dent or scar that formed after your lumpectomy, that also should be safe (being that your original pathology was benign). And fat grafting near the nipple ideally if done correctly is safe, fat cells are like stem cells - they will help regenerate whatever is surrounding it to help it heal or fill.

Dear Graceful800500,

it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. Generally speaking, it is possible to use old scars to avoid creating new scars. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.

Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Thank you for your query. It seems to be a good idea to use the previous scars as injection sites for fat augmentation, especially as the lump was completely benign. I usually use the areola to inject as it leaves no visible scars. Please discuss all your concerns with your surgeon. All the best!

It is reasonable and safe to use the old scar. This allows the doctor assess to the areas he wants to inject. Sometimes patients want fat injected to the upper pole of the breast and in that can I use an incision at the junction of the areola and skin and is camouflaged by the color change. Usually several sites are used, not just one for fat injections.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

The incisions for fat transfer are very small, and it is definitely reasonable to use an existing scar. It's a little unclear whether the scar is on the areola (common) or the actual nipple (less common). Either way, it shouldn't matter. If you prefer another incision, just let your surgeon know.

It is not unreasonable to use this scar. The scars are very small with fat grafting and personally I usually use multiple access points. Good luck with your procedure.

Short answer is - yes, this is totally appropriate. We like to use existing scars to limit scars and the upper nipple region is a great place for scar camouflage and access to the full breast for grafting.
Best of luck to you!

I’m not a fan of injecting fat in the breast although many surgeons think it’s a good procedure. If you’re not comfortable with the procedure you mention then just don’t have it done