Fat Grafting

What is fat grafting?

Fat grafting ( also called autologous fat transfer ) is a surgical procedure used in breast reconstruction to obtain improved contouring for a more natural appearing and symmetrical breast.  Fat grafting is used in breast reconstruction after a mastectomy or partial mastectomy (lumpectomy) to reconstruct a breast, or in addition to implant  and muscle flap based reconstruction,  to provide more fullness to an area or to disguise the edges of an implant , contour deformities or implant rippling.  Fat grafting is also used after radiation therapy to the breast to improve the changes to the breast often associated with radiation therapy.

Fat grafting is a procedure performed in the operating room, usually with anesthesia.   Fat is removed or “harvested” by liposuction techniques from an area of your body, usually the abdomen or thigh area.   The fat is then prepared and meticulously injected into the area with the defect, very small amounts at a time, to sculpt the area and to reconstruct the most natural breast possible.  The fat that is grafted to the breast area depends on a blood supply to survive.   Often, it is necessary to perform more than one fat graft procedure to obtain the most optimal results.  

After a fat grafting procedure, the area where fat is harvested from- typically the abdomen, flank or thigh regions - may be very sore, and bruising of the area may last for several days.

What happens during fat grafting?

During a fat grafting procedure, you can expect to receive general anesthesia to keep you comfortable. 

Dr. Lynch first removes fat from another part of your body, usually your thigh or abdomen, using liposuction technology. He prepares the fat before reinjecting it into precise areas to reconstruct your breast. The goal of surgery is to create the most natural-looking breast possible.

Because the success of the graft depends on your blood supply in the breast area, you may need to undergo more than one fat graft procedure to achieve optimal results. Multiple fat grafting procedures may also be necessary if you’re looking to increase your breast size. 

What are the benefits of fat grafting?

A primary benefit of fat grafting in breast reconstruction is the advantage of using your own tissue to rebuild your breast instead of a breast implant. While Dr. Lynch uses the safest silicone and saline implants in reconstruction surgery, using your own tissue can further reduce your risk for related complications. 

Another popular benefit of fat grafting is that Dr. Lynch can remove unwanted fat from other areas of your body, such as your abdomen, to slim you down and improve your natural body contours.  

To find out if you’re a candidate for fat grafting as part of your breast reconstruction surgery, call the office of Matthew J. Lynch MD Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery or request a consultation online today.