Autologous Fat Transplantation – A Paradigm Shift in Breast Reconstruction

Fat grafting to the breast is not a new concept. It has been under consideration since the 19th century when pioneers attempted inserting bulk volumes of fat (Neuber, 1893, Czerny 1895). Interest in fat grafting was rekindled with the introduction of liposuction, which provided an easy and reliable source of fat. After a brief pause in evolution of breast fat grafting due to concerns over confounding radiologic findings, and risk of carcinogenesis, fat grafting is once again at the forefront of cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery as these concerns are have become more manageable. The plastic surgery community has re-assessed its position and has called for further clinical and basic science research in this versatile technique. As discussed below, fat grafting is becoming an invaluable tool for breast reconstruction both for core reconstruction and as an ancillary technique after various procedures for breast reconstruction.