Breast reconstruction through fat transfer processes
Fat grafting, also known as autologous fat transfer, is a breast augmentation procedure that uses a patient's own body fat to reconstruct the breast. Here's a closer look at the process, its benefits, risks, and what you can expect.
The Procedure
The procedure involves taking fat from a donor site, such as the abdomen or thighs, liquefying it, and then injecting it into the breast. The breast shape and volume may stabilize around six months post-procedure and can last many years, provided body weight remains stable.
Long-term Effects
The long-term effects of fat grafting include permanent retention of a portion of the transferred fat, but with some unpredictability and changes over time. On average, about 30% to 70% of the injected fat survives and establishes a new blood supply, with the rest being naturally reabsorbed by the body.
Risks and Complications
Potential complications include fat necrosis (fat tissue death), cyst formation, lumps, contour irregularities, infection risks, and interference with breast cancer screening due to calcifications from fat necrosis. It's important to note that necrosis does not increase breast cancer risk.
Number of Procedures
Since the survival rate of the grafted fat is unpredictable, multiple procedures are often required to achieve and maintain permanent and satisfactory breast volume. The number of procedures needed depends on individual factors, such as the amount of fat available for transfer, the recipient site's capacity to support fat, and aesthetic goals.
Benefits
Breasts created with fat grafting may feel softer and more natural than those reconstructed with implants. Additionally, fat grafting uses an individual's own body tissue instead of implants, and it can remove fat from an area a person may not want.
Coverage
Medicaid may cover breast reconstructive procedures, but coverage varies by state. Medicare and most group insurance plans cover the cost of mastectomies and breast reconstruction. For those unable to cover the cost of reconstructive surgery, the Alliance in Reconstructive Surgery foundation provides grants.
Anesthesia and Recovery
The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia. The recovery period for fat grafting is generally shorter and less intensive than other reconstruction options. After the procedure, compression garments are placed on the donor and placement sites. Patients may experience bruising, swelling, scabbing, and pink or reddish discharge after the procedure.
In conclusion, fat grafting for breast reconstruction offers a more natural feel and appearance compared to implants, but it requires planning for multiple sessions and being mindful of potential complications. It's crucial to discuss risks and long-term expectations thoroughly with your surgeon.
- Besides being used for breast augmentation, fat grafting is a technique used in reconstructive surgeries for addressing various medical-conditions, including chronic-diseases and cance.
- Some people opt for breast cosmetic surgery as part of their health-and-wellness plan, seeking a more natural look and feel offered by fat grafting, compared to traditional breast implants.
- Apart from breast reconstruction, fat grafting can also contribute to overall skin-care and appearance by removing excess fat from donor sites, such as the abdomen or thighs.
- Despite its numerous benefits, fat grafting can have risks and complications related to the procedure, such as fat necrosis, cyst formation, infection, and compromised breast cancer screening due to calcifications from fat necrosis.
- It's essential to understand that while necrosis does not increase breast cancer risk, breast reconstructive surgeries, including those using fat grafting, may be covered by certain insurance plans, like Medicaid, Medicare, or even the Alliance in Reconstructive Surgery foundation's grants.
- Moving beyond breast health, discussing mental-health, including body image and self-esteem concerns, is crucial when considering any cosmetic surgery options, such as breast augmentation via fat grafting for both men's-health and women's-health perspectives.
