Fat Transfer for Correction After Mastectomies. Recovery Time?

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!

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.

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.