Post mastectomy reconstruction with fat grafting only for BRCA1 patient - can I get a long-lasting result? (Photos)

Question

I'm about to have a double Mx, to be followed by radiation. I'm a B cup and would like the absolute minimally invasive reconstruction, ideally with fat transfer only. I'm interested in the most subtle result, barely there outline of a breast. My Dr says fat will reabsorb. Is it possible to achieve a lasting result with fat grafting only?

Adam Levy, MD · Answer

Fat transfer, otherwise known as fat grafting, is a procedure where fat is transferred from one area of the body to another. This fat is harvested with liposuction and the small deposits of fat cells are then grafted into healthy surrounding tissues. Usually during fat transfer surgery, only small amounts of fat can be transferred due to limitations in tissue availability - such as after a mastectomy or when there is just skin and thin layer of subcutaneous tissue to work with. The living tissues that surround fat grafts are essential in sustaining them while they take root and heal. Because a mastectomy causes significant tissue injury, it is not an ideal time to perform the fat grafting. It would be best to wait for the mastectomy skin to heal fully for a period of at least 2-3 months prior to proceeding. Once the tissue bed is healthy, you could certainly achieve a very small breast mound with fat grafting alone. The nice thing is that the procedure can be repeated an infinite amount of times, each time being able to place more fat into the "scaffolding" you have created with prior structural fat grafting. 
Though it is more of a process than placing an implant or having a flap surgery for reconstruction, you can ultimately get a very nice, natural result for a small breast mound with fat grafting alone. You can expect about 65% or so of the grafted fat to stick around long-term. However, radiation may greatly affect these results and cause much of the fat to shrink away or need for repeated procedures in the future.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear angelinabasta,
fat transfer breast augmentation is a viable alternative for women who desire larger breasts without the use of implants. Fat transfer is also widely used in reconstruction of the breast after a mastectomy or lumpectomy. It can also be very effective in correcting the size and shape of the breasts due to genetic problems such as tuberous breast or Poland Syndrome, two conditions that look like misshapen or underdeveloped breasts.In addition, the following scenarios are also reason to consider breast fat grafting:• If you have chest areas that appear creased and sunken• If you desire more permanent correction than is provided by temporary fillers• If you wish to improve your body contour, revise scars, fill bodily depressions and rejuvenate the natural curve of your breasts• To fill in contour irregularities or hide obvious signs of breast implantsYou should discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon and make sure your surgeon understands your concerns and your breast augmentation goals. 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

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

YES! doing fat transfer with PRF infused fat. Fee $12,000. Best to virtual consult with... Plus gain 10 pounds if possible to have enough donor fat available.

Post mastectomy reconstruction with fat grafting only for BRCA1 patient - can I get a long-lasting result? (Photos)

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Post mastectomy reconstruction with fat grafting only for BRCA1 patient - can I get a long-lasting result? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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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.