Fat Transfer for Correction After Mastectomies. Recovery Time?

Question

I had prophylactic bilateral mastectomies with tissue expanders in August. Exchange to silicon implants in December. My plastic surgeon suggested fat transfer from my outer thighs to correct some creases and step off on top of the breast. He will do both thighs to keep symmetry. I was wondering about the recovery for this type of surgery. I am due to go on vacation one month after surgery. Will I need compression garments? Bruising? Thank you!

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Hello!  Thank you for your question.  Fat grafting has become a popular procedure to improve aesthetic outcome following breast reconstruction or for improvement of contour after lumpectomy.  Much of the newest research has investigated the properties of fat, in terms of its stem cell properties and associated advantages.	It has significantly ameliorated radiation damage by increasing vascularity.  Also, it adds additional "fatty tissue" atop the reconstructed breast mound to further contour any concavities or deformities, while also masking implant visibility with rippling and such.At our Breast Reconstruction Center, we have utilizing this technique almost routinely to maximize the aesthetic outcomes after lumpectomy or mastectomy.  We have utilized the micro-fat grafting technique, and have been obtaining maximal fat graft survival into the breast.  After harvesting of the fat from areas with excess fat, usually the belly, hips, or thighs, the fat is processed and injected back into the breast using the aforementioned techniques.  Our patients have been very happy with the results as well as the areas where the liposuction was performed.  Contour has been much improved using the micro-fat grafting technique, and the downtime is minimal.	Fat grafting has become a mainstay in breast reconstruction and has added another edge to breast reconstruction for aesthetics with minimal morbidity and complications.  Recovery time is minimal - similar to standard liposuction ~2-4 weeks before swelling and bruising subside.  I typically have garments in place for 6 weeks, which optimizes the result of the area in which the fat was obtained.  The postoperative instructions will vary with each surgeon.  Hope that this helps!  Best wishes!

Justin Gusching, DO · Answer

Fat transfer to the breast following reconstruction or lumpectomy, or any surgery that deforms the breast is well tolerated. Most patients of mine complain more about the pain from the harvest site (thighs) than breast pain. I recommend light compression for 6 weeks to prevent too much swelling and hematoma. The amount of fat that takes is extremely variable so a series is usually the best bet.

Aldona J. Spiegel, MD · Answer

Fat grafting has become increasingly popular to improve the results in breast reconstruction. This procedure has a relatively fast recovery, and the main area that is affected is the donor site where the fat is taken from using liposuction. There could be bruising and swelling for up to two to three weeks. Compression garments are important to help minimize swelling and help skin elasticity. If you are going to a beach vacation those are some factors to consider.

Cheri A. Ong, MD, FACS · Answer

Fat grafting is a great tool to contour the breasts of mastectomy . I use it on virtually all patients with implant based reconstruction. The recovery is dependent on where the fat is taken from. Some bruising and swelling is normal . Expect some soreness as well. A compression garment is important and I usually have my patients wear them between 3-6 weeks depending on where the fat is taken. You should be healed and ready for your vacation in a month.

Robert Whitfield, MD · Answer

This procedure has become very common place.  I do several a week on Fridays and my patients go back to normal activities on Monday.  If they need compression it is only for a week or two.Fat grafting is a valuable tool in breast surgery.  This technique has gained more popularity
over the past 7 years.  There are many
techniques used to harvest the fat, process the fat and then re-inject the fat.
Conventional suction lipectomy is performed with a small diameter cannula,
processed by separating the liquid and fibrous tissue from the fat, and then
placed into syringes for re-injection or through a closed system.

Please find an experienced Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
and member of the Aesthetic Society using the Smart Beauty Guide.  These Plastic Surgeons can guide you on all
aspects of facial surgery, breast augmentation and body procedures including
tummy tucks or mommy makeovers!

Raj S. Ambay, MD · Answer

Yes fat grafting can be safely done after lumpectomy and radiation. It should be done in small increments and allow enough time (at least 4 months). The blood supply is the key to successful fat grafting. Expect you thighs to be a bit swelled for at least 3 months and garments for 6 weeks.

George J. Beraka, MD (retired) · Answer

Hi.

	1)  This is often very helpful.  The right technique is crucial to harvest the fat, purify it, and then inject it in multiple tiny amounts with a very thin blunt-tipped cannula.

	2)  Women go back to work in about four days, and exercise in two weeks.  Garments not needed.

Fat Transfer for Correction After Mastectomies. Recovery Time?

Answers (7)

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