Considering a breast fat transfer: Are microcalcifications unavoidable over time?

Radiologists have confirmed that any calcifications caused by fat grafting can be distinguished from any calcifications associated with malignancy. Therefore, this triumph has overcome the concern that fat grafting could possibly lead to more biopsies secondary to mammographic calcifications. In addition, breast fat transfer has not been shown to increase breast cancer risk.

This is a very thoughtful question. This topic is somewhat controversial. Our understanding of fat grafting and our imaging techniques/interpretation have evolved in a short period of time. About 15 years ago, fat grafting was a hot topic because of the confusion it caused in breast imaging like mammograms. However, there has been a better understanding of the characteristics of fat necrosis versus malignant or pre-malignant micro calcifications. With improvements in imaging, radiologists generally can interpret micro-calcifications that are worrisome from overt calcifications from fat necrosis.
Overall, recent literature shows that fat grafting does not increase the chance of developing a new breast cancer, or accelerate the return of a previously detected and treated breast cancer. Continued mammograms and surveillance is important to monitor any changes in the characteristics of breast tissue over time, regardless of your decision to move forward with fat grafting or not.

Dear RAE10,
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, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery