gms | German Medical Science

Autologous fat grafting has become a frequent technique in breast cancer surgery for revisional or partial reconstruction [1], [2]. To date, a limited number of case series showed complete breast reconstruction through fat transfer [3], [4].

Therefore a retrospective review was performed on 38 patients (45 breasts) with history of uni- or bilateral breast cancer and post-mastectomy therapy between 1995 and 2007. Autologous fat grafting was performed by senior surgeons according to the standardised protocol of the BEAULI^TM Method [5]. Aesthetic results, radiologic examination (mammography, sonography) and patient satisfaction were determined after a 6 months follow-up period.

Over 140 procedures were done between 2008 and 2012. On average 3,8 procedures with a single median volume of 150 ml (±57,4 ml) were performed after total mastectomy. A lipotransfer of 600 ml (±177 ml) was required for complete breast reconstruction.Partial defects after flap- or prothesis based reconstruction were successfully treated with a median of 2,1 procedures and a 50–80 ml single volume. The median operation time was 40 min, but ranged to 60 min (±29 min) when additional operative steps (NAC reconstruction, abdominal advancement, contralateral mammaplasty) were carried out. As a postoperative complication small singular oilcysts were estimate in 6 (3,4%) cases, but showed spontaneously resolution. Once granuloma was detached, but no infections. The majority of patients was very satisfied with the final result.

Our approach emphazises, that a safe partial or „de novo“ breast reconstruction is possible within 3–5 procedures with the BEAULI^TM Method. These are combinable simultaneously with other oncoplasty techniques. Our treatment is gradually attained after 12–18 months at least, so that patients retain a stepwise controlled breast reconstruction.