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

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