Autologous Fat Grafting as a Stand-alone Method for Immediate Breast Reconstruction After Radical Mastectomy in a Series of 15 Patients.

OBJECTIVE: To date, breast reconstruction after mastectomy essentially uses flap- or prosthetic-based surgery. Autologous fat grafting (AFT) largely used in breast conservative surgery is considered an additional technique in breast reconstruction. The aim of this retrospective study was to report our experience of AFT as a stand-alone method for immediate breast reconstruction.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: Fifteen patients requiring a radical mastectomy underwent AFT for immediate reconstruction since 2014. Previous breast irradiation was not a contraindication. Procedures, complications, and cosmetic results were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS: Fifteen patients with an average age of 60.5 (43-78) years were included in this retrospective study. They had a body mass index ranging from 19 to 40. Fourteen had a mastectomy for cancer and 1 for prophylaxis. Nine received breast irradiation (7 before surgery and 2 adjuvant). A mean of 3 (2-6) AFT procedures were required to achieve total breast reconstruction. Except for the first transfer, others were performed as outpatient surgeries. Only 2 minor complications (1 hematoma and 1 abscess) not impairing results were reported. The results after a mean follow-up of 26 months were considered by the patients and surgeon as highly satisfactory even in previously irradiated breast, as assessed using a qualitative scoring analysis.

CONCLUSIONS: Autologous fat grafting as a stand-alone method for immediate breast reconstruction after radical mastectomy is a safe procedure with very consistent results even for patients requiring radiation therapy.