March
2009
Safety Concerns with Fat Grafting to the Breast2
The new ASPS Guiding Principles for Fat Injection to the Breast discusses the risks and complications based on a review of all published scientific information. They conclude that complication rates for fat grafting in general is not high compared to other procedures, and serious complications are “extremely rare.” Specific concerns about fat grafting to the breast interfering with cancer detection is not supported by any studies.
However, using some techniques for fat grafting to the breast can result in increased complications and a poor result. Therefore, the ASPS has emphasized, “The safety, efficacy and final outcome of any given case is dependent on the technique used.” They go on to say “studies indicate that results of fat transfer remain dependent on a surgeon’s technique and expertise.”
A patient should try to choose a physician who is an expert at fat grafting and has a long record of success.
This 55 year old woke up to find her silicone gel plant had ruptured. She had both removed along with the surrounding scarring four months before these photographs
6 1/2 years after the last of 2 fat grafting sessions. Her breasts now feel and look completely natural after only two sessions of fat grafting. In addition, her body has improved from the removal of fat from her abdomen and waist.
Patient has completely natural appearing breast 6 1/2 years after second fat grafting.
Subsequent posts over the next weeks will address the other findings of the American Society of Plastic Surgery’s task force on fat grafting to the breast. Stay Tuned!
For more detailed information about fat grafting to the breast, please refer toLipoStructure.com.
For information on the consultation, procedure and pricing for Dr. Coleman’s fat grafting to the breast CLICK HERE.
Check out these links more information on fat grafting to the breasts:
Dr. Sydney Coleman demonstrates Breast Reconstruction with LipoStructure on The Doctors
Coleman lectures on fat grafting for breast reconstruction at the American College of Surgeons
Lipofilling: a role in breast reconstruction surgery??From “Behind the Medical Headlines” produced by the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh and Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow
Breast Augmentation Via Fat Grafting?From “Plastic Surgery Practice”
Breast Implant Problems Solved with Coleman Fat Grafting
Fat Grafting to the Breast Revisited: Safety and Efficacy.?Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. 119(3):775-785, March 2007.?Coleman, Sydney R. M.D.; Saboeiro, Alesia P. M.D.
Greetings! Dr. Coleman
I am very leary about any procedure regarding plastic surgery. But I find that the fat grafting
is alot more refreshing to hear, rather than the
standard silicone and saline breast implants.
What I am also happy to hear, is that you don’t have to come back every ten years and have the implants replaced!
One thing that worries me, is the liposuction.
I really wish, they could come up with something that would not need general anesthesia at all. I know you mentioned in some small cases local is enough along with sedation. But in terms with other cases that involve much more extensive procedures. Big wish I guess!
Gina,
It sounds as though fat grafting to the breast would be a good choice for you, but I would need to see you first to make sure that it is the best procedure for your situation.
It is necessary to harvest the fat in a method that is basically a careful liposuction. I always use smaller instruments and a syringe with no machines for harvesting. This increases the time, but minimizes damage to the fat. With careful planning, your body can be improved by removing fat from your waist or thighs. Liposuction is one of the most common surgical procedures performed in the world, and considering its widespread use has minimal complications compared to other procedures. I would be glad to discuss this with you more in my office.
Local anesthesia can be great and we use it in some smaller breast cases. However, for most cases, general anesthesia is not only more comfortable, but also is safer.
Syd Coleman