Megavolume Autologous Fat Transfer: Part II. Practice and Techniques

The Learning Curve of Total Breast Reconstruction With Autologous Fat Transfer

INTRODUCTION

Total breast reconstruction with autologous fat transfer (AFT) is a relatively new breast reconstruction method. Although AFT was predominantly used to correct postsurgical defects, the surgical skills of a total breast reconstruction with AFT are different and can be facilitated for novices to accelerate their learning process. This study aims to assess the learning curve of plastic surgeons in total breast reconstruction with AFT in the Netherlands.

METHODS

A mixed-methods study was performed based on the multicenter randomized clinical BREAST trial data. For the qualitative analysis, semistructured interviews were conducted. To test hypotheses derived from the qualitative data, retrospective data analysis was performed using multilevel linear regression analysis of the patients undergoing AFT as a total breast reconstruction method.

RESULTS

The interviews revealed that plastic surgeons need to perform the procedure several times to learn and experience the technical details of total breast reconstruction with AFT. Learning and improving this technique works best by scrubbing in with an expert. Before plastic surgeons learn the optimal volume of fat reinjection over time, they tend to inject too little fat and subsequently too much fat over multiple procedures. With more experience, the rigottomy technique becomes more important. Besides technical details, managing patient expectations before starting treatment is paramount. Multilevel linear regression revealed a significant decrease (P < 0.001) in the number of surgical procedures and the total injected volume (P = 0.002) to complete a total breast reconstruction with AFT.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study that explores the learning curve involved in using AFT as a total breast reconstruction method. The feeling of when fat transfer is sufficient, and how to release scars for a good result without causing seromas, is best learned by scrubbing in with experienced colleagues during several procedures, interchanged with starting one's own practice.

Correction of the Tuberous Breast with Fat Grafting and Implant: Techniques, Evaluation with BREAST-Q, and Preliminary Results

BACKGROUND

The correction of tuberous breast deformity with fat grafting has gained popularity in recent years, but it remains unclear whether this new technique can produce patient satisfaction levels comparable to those achieved with implant-based correction.

METHODS

This study aimed to compare patients' satisfaction and quality of life using the BREAST-Q questionnaire after correction of tuberous breast deformity with fat grafting and implants. Twenty-four patients (36 breasts) were included in our study. Thirteen patients (15 breasts) had a correction with lipofilling (mean 2.67 interventions) and 11 patients (21 breasts) had an implant-based correction (mean 1 intervention).

RESULTS

Both fat and implant treatments showed statistically significant improvements in breast satisfaction (p value=0.001, 0.002, respectively), psychosocial (p value=0.003, 0.003, respectively), and sexual satisfaction (p value=0.008, 0.002, respectively) between the pre-treatment and post-treatment stages. However, the only statistically significant differences between the treatments were observed in the physical condition pre-treatment (p value=0.008) and sexual condition post-treatment (p value=0.030). The outcome of both treatments was not statistically different. Furthermore, the outcome exhibited a statistically significant positive linear relationship with breast satisfaction for both treatments.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that lipofilling can achieve breast and outcome satisfaction comparable to that of implants, although this parity in results comes at the cost of more interventions. These preliminary results lend support to the notion that, as surgeons have access to two equally effective techniques, it is crucial to provide appropriate guidance to patients to ensure their satisfaction.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Endoscopic mastectomy followed by immediate breast reconstruction with fat grafting for breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Although endoscopic mastectomy has been associated with good tolerance and enhanced patient satisfaction, limitations such as the implant or flap size for reconstruction with small incisions remain unresolved. Fat grafting (FG) can expand tissue volume with pinhole skin incisions. Herein, we evaluated the safety and efficacy of endoscopic mastectomy followed by immediate FG.

METHODS

Patients who underwent endoscopic mastectomy with immediate FG reconstruction from 2015 to 2021 were retrospectively evaluated to establish surgical outcomes and prognosis.

RESULTS

Twenty-three patients with clinical stage 0 or I breast cancer underwent unilateral endoscopic mastectomy with immediate FG. The median age was 45 years (41-55), and the median body mass index was 19.3 kg/m2 (15.8-26.6). Endoscopically performed procedures included skin-sparing mastectomies in 18 patients (78%) and nipple-sparing mastectomies in five patients (22%). The median procedure duration was 295 min (242-346). The median specimen weight was 133 g (71-334), and the median grafted fat volume was 200 mL (136-320). No patient required reoperation or additional procedures for complications. One patient experienced recurrence at a median follow-up of 56.1 months and underwent resection; the patient was alive without recurrence 54 months post-resection.

CONCLUSION

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of endoscopic mastectomy with immediate FG for reconstruction. When compared with other immediate autologous reconstructions, our strategy could minimize the skin incision and procedure duration, as well as limit complications. Further prospective investigations are needed to evaluate oncological safety, surgical outcomes, and patient satisfaction.

Superficial Intramuscular Gluteal Lipograft by Doppler Ultrasound: A Report of 24 Patients

Background

Gluteal fat grafting is a common procedure in liposculpture. This study proposes a Doppler ultrasound-guided intramuscular and subcutaneous gluteal lipotransfer technique that allows for visualization of the location of the gluteal vessels, avoiding approaching them during lipotransfer by having the cannula localized during fat infiltration.

Methods

This new technique was applied to 24 women after obtaining informed consent and providing them with a clear explanation of potential risks and complications. Doppler ultrasound was used to locate the site and depth of blood vessels, and for quadrant scanning of vessels and superficial intramuscular visualization of the cannula's location. Intramuscular lipotransfer was performed with a volume of 400 mL per gluteus (or less), and 12 patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging before and 3 months after surgery.

Results

This technique allowed for visualizing the location of the gluteal vessels, and infiltration could be easily performed in patients. In the 24 glutei reviewed postsurgery, from 12 patients who underwent pre- and postsurgery magnetic resonance imaging, intramuscular fat was found; however, there was no migration outside the gluteus maximus muscle.

Conclusions

No local or systemic complications were observed. The results of our report show that fat filtration did not migrate outside the gluteus maximus muscle. This finding seeks to promote new research to create theoretical/practical precedents for the intervention of plastic surgeons and, from there, promote the standardization of a new and safe technique.

Enhancing Philtrum Morphology Using Fat Grafting Combined with Percutaneous Rigottomy in Repaired Unilateral Cleft Lip

BACKGROUND

Improving the philtrum morphology of patients with a secondary cleft lip deformity has been a challenge in cleft care. Combining fat grafting with percutaneous rigottomy has been advocated for treatment of volumetric deficiency associated with a scarred recipient site. This study assessed the outcome of synchronous fat grafting and rigottomy for improvement of cleft philtrum morphology.

METHODS

Consecutive young adult patients ( n = 13) with a repaired unilateral cleft lip who underwent fat grafting combined with rigottomy expansion technique for enhancement of philtrum morphology were included. Preoperative and postoperative three-dimensional facial models were used for three-dimensional morphometric analyses including philtrum height, projection, and volume parameters. Lip scar was qualitatively judged by a panel composed by two blinded external plastic surgeons using a 10-point visual analogue scale.

RESULTS

Three-dimensional morphometric analysis revealed a significant (all P < 0.05) postoperative increase of the lip height-related measurements for cleft philtrum height, noncleft philtrum height, and central lip length parameters, with no difference ( P > 0.05) between cleft and noncleft sides. The postoperative three-dimensional projection of the philtral ridges was significantly ( P < 0.001) larger in cleft (1.01 ± 0.43 mm) than in noncleft sides (0.51 ± 0.42 mm). The average philtrum volume change was 1.01 ± 0.68 cm 3 , with an average percentage fat graft retention of 43.36% ± 11.35%. The panel assessment revealed significant ( P < 0.001) postoperative scar enhancement for the qualitative rating scale, with mean preoperative and postoperative scores of 6.69 ± 0.93 and 7.88 ± 1.14, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Synchronous fat grafting and rigottomy improved philtrum length, projection, and volume and lip scar in patients with repaired unilateral cleft lip.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, IV.

The FALD-V: A predictive formula for preoperative volume assessment of adipose tissue transplantation in FALD flap

BACKGROUND

The fat-augmented latissimus dorsi (FALD) flap is an evolution of the traditional latissimus dorsi (LD) flap, which allows to obtain a total autologous breast reconstruction (BR) avoiding the use of breast implants. The aim of this study was to develop a predictive preoperative formula in order to estimate and optimize the amount of fat to be transferred during FALD flap BR, using only anthropometric measurements.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective clinical study between September 2020 and April 2023. All patients underwent back pre-operative ultrasound scan to assess the subcutaneous skin paddle thickness (SPT) and a regression analysis was performed to evaluate which anthropometric variable had a better correlation with this thickness.

RESULTS

Data from 66 FALD flaps were collected. The mean SPT was 11.95 mm (SD 4.56). A significant correlation between SPT and body mass index (BMI) was found (r = 0.640, p < 0.0001). Using the fat-to-capacity ratio (113%), the following formula (the FALD-V) was developed to predict the needed fat transfer into FALD flap: [-509 + 12.32 × BMI + 11.71 × skin paddle width + 17.43 × skin paddle height] × 1.13. The considered variables (BMI, skin paddle width and skin paddle height) were statistically significant (p < 0.001, p = 0.0483, p = 0.0154, respectively). The cross-validation confirmed the accuracy of the formula (r = 0.810).

CONCLUSION

The FALD-V can be used as an innovative complimentary device in the planning of FALD flap one-stage total autologous BR. To enhance its application, a 3.0 WebApp at www.braflap.com (and www.breast-v.com) is available free of charge for both iOS and Android devices.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II.

Fat Grafting to the Breast for Aesthetic Indications: Techniques and Outcomes in 165 Consecutive Patients

PURPOSE

Fat grafting to the breast for aesthetic indications has become increasingly popular. Herein, methods, aesthetic outcomes, and complications are reviewed in a retrospective case series.

METHODS

Female patients (n=165) with an average age of 45 years (range: 17-78 years) who underwent fat grafting to breast were evaluated. Demographic parameters, the type of procedure, the amount of fat transferred, the site(s) of fat harvest, operative times, and the patient's postoperative recovery and outcomes were recorded.

RESULTS

Of the 165 patients, 105 had breast augmentation with fat only. Of these 105 patients, 14(8%) had implant removal with and without capsulectomy, and 61(37%) had mastopexies. Composite augmentation was performed in the remaining 60 patients. The average amount of fat used was 208 cc (range: 10 to 945 cc) per breast. Forty-five patients (27%) underwent a second procedure. Of the 165 patients, 37(22%) had adverse events unrelated to the fat graft, including suture abscesses, scarring, and minor incision cite skin breakdown. Four patients (2.4%) had a complication related to fat grafting including 'lump' formation between the breast, abnormal mammograms, and the need for simple aspiration of a lipid cyst.

CONCLUSIONS

Autologous fat grafting should be considered for both primary and secondary aesthetic breast surgery to enhance outcomes. Complications related to fat grafting are uncommon. Revisional and secondary surgeries may be needed to achieve the desired outcome. Power-assisted liposuction, with vibratory infiltration of the tumescent solution, auto-infusion of fat, and Expansion Vibration Lipofilling using a closed system has become our preferred technique. Fat grafting to breast can be considered for both primary and secondary aesthetic breast surgery Complications related to fat grafting are uncommon There does not appear to be an overall increase in complications of associated mastopexy and composite augmentation LEVEL OF EVIDENCE V: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Latissimus dorsi flap with immediate fat transfer (LIFT) for autologous breast reconstruction: Single institution experience

BACKGROUND

Few studies have reported the outcomes of LDF and immediate fat transfer (LIFT) during breast reconstruction. The aim of this study was to compare the perioperative outcomes and complications of LIFT and standard LDF (without immediate fat transfer) for breast reconstruction.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed charts from patients undergoing autologous breast reconstruction after total mastectomy between 2011 and 2021. We compared intraoperative and postoperative outcomes between groups.

RESULTS

One hundred nineteen reconstructions (61.02%) were performed with LIFT, while seventy-six (38.98%) were performed with standard LDF. The median volume of total fat transferred during LIFT was 125-cc [110-170 ​cc]. The rates of donor site wound disruption (23.7% versus 12.6%, p ​= ​0.044) were higher using the standard LDF compared to LIFT. Reconstructions performed with LIFT (HR 4.01, p ​< ​0.001) were found to be associated with secondary fat grafting procedures.

CONCLUSION

LIFT is a safe procedure to enhance the volume of LDF in patients desiring autologous reconstruction without increasing recipient-site morbidity. On a time-to-event analysis, LIFT was associated with the requirement of further revision procedures using secondary fat grafting.

Volume retention rate after breast autogenous fat grafting and related influencing factors: A systematic review and meta-analysis

The volume retention of breast autologous fat grafting is unpredictable, and the volume retention rate and related influencing factors have not been systematically reviewed. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed at evaluating the volume retention rate and related influencing factors of breast autologous fat grafting, which is for reconstructive or esthetic purposes. Literature search was conducted using the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases from inception of study to December 2022. Sensitivity analysis was performed for all outcomes. Begg's test was performed to test publication bias. Subgroup analysis was performed based on population, method of fat preparation, method of volume measurement, number of fat grafting, and injected fat grafting volume. A total of 25 studies were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The follow-up time ranged from 3 to 36 months. Results showed that the pooled volume retention rate at the latest follow-up point was 54% [95% confidence interval (CI): 48.5%-59.5%]. Based on the fat preparation methods, the pooled rate was 51.5% (95%CI: 41.5%-61.5%) for centrifugation, which was higher than that for sedimentation [38.7% (95%CI: 30.9%-46.5%)]. In addition, the enrichment of stromal vascular fraction obtained after centrifugation was found to be associated with higher volume retention rate (weighted mean difference: 17.36, 95%CI: 8.84-25.87). Our findings may provide guidance for evaluating the volume retention rate of breast autologous fat grafting in clinical settings. Further studies are needed to verify our findings.

The Optimal Layer for Breast Augmentation in an Autologous Fat Grafting Murine Model

BACKGROUND

Fat grafting is an effective procedure for breast augmentation, but the variations in this technique result in unpredictable fat retention. Therefore, animal models are needed to simulate the operation and the optimal layer for fat retention.

OBJECTIVES

An autologous fat grafting murine model for breast augmentation was built to detect a new layer for fat grafting in the chest.

METHODS

The left side of the female rat inguinal fat flap was harvested, dissected into small pieces, and autotransplanted into 3 different layers of the breast. Retention rate and hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining were measured at 1, 4, 8 12, and 16 weeks. Immunofluorescence staining was utilized to detect adipocytes and endothelial cells, and immunohistochemistry was conducted to evaluate the expression of integrins β1 and α6.

RESULTS

The volume of fat grafts slightly grew in the intramuscular and submuscular layers at Week 4. Retention rates in the subcutaneous layer and submuscular layer were significantly higher than the intramuscular layer at Week 16. H&E staining showed that oil cysts existed in the subcutaneous layer throughout the 16 weeks. At the terminal time point, well-vascularized mature adipose structures were observed in intramuscular and submuscular layers, with smaller adipocytes in intramuscular layers. Immunohistochemistry analysis showed that integrin β1 was identically expressed in every adipocyte in all the layers, whereas integrin α6 selectively expressed in bigger adipocytes in the intramuscular layer. The expression intensities of integrin β1 and α6 were significantly higher in the intramuscular layer than in the subcutaneous and submuscular layers.

CONCLUSIONS

The angiogenic and moderate mechanical environment makes the submuscular layer the optimal layer for fat retention.

Imaging findings after a total reconstructed breast with autologous fat transfer: what the radiologist needs to know

Autologous fat transfer (AFT) is an upcoming technique for total breast reconstruction. Consequently, radiological imaging of women with an AFT reconstructed breast will increase in the coming years, yet radiological experience and evidence after AFT is limited.

The surgical procedure of AFT and follow-up with imaging modalities including mammography (MG), ultrasound (US), and MRI in patients with a total breast reconstruction with AFT are summarized to illustrate the radiological normal and suspicious findings for malignancy.

Imaging after a total breast reconstruction with AFT appears to be based mostly on benign imaging findings with an overall low biopsy rate. As higher volumes are injected in this technique, the risk for the onset of fat necrosis increases. Imaging findings most often are related to fat necrosis after AFT. On MG, fat necrosis can mostly be seen as oil cysts. The occurrence of a breast seroma after total breast reconstruction with AFT is an unfavourable outcome and may require special treatment. Fat deposition in the pectoral muscle is a previously unknown, but benign entity. Although fat necrosis is a benign entity, it can mimic breast cancer (recurrence).

In symptomatic women after total breast reconstruction with AFT, MG and US can be considered as first diagnostic modalities. Breast MRI can be used as a problem-solving tool during later stage. Future studies should investigate the most optimal follow-up strategy, including different imaging modalities, in patients treated with AFT for total breast reconstruction.

Fat Graft Survival Requires Metabolic Reprogramming Toward the Glycolytic Pathway

BACKGROUND

Fat grafts are widely used as natural fillers in reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. However, the mechanisms underlying fat graft survival are poorly understood. Here, we performed an unbiased transcriptomic analysis in a mouse fat graft model to determine the molecular mechanism underlying free fat graft survival.

METHODS

We conducted RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis in a mouse free subcutaneous fat graft model on days 3 and 7 following grafting (n = 5). High-throughput sequencing was performed on paired-end reads using NovaSeq6000. The calculated transcripts per million (TPM) values were processed for principal component analysis (PCA), unsupervised hierarchically clustered heat map generation, and gene set enrichment analysis.

RESULTS

PCA and heat map data revealed global differences in the transcriptomes of the fat graft model and the non-grafted control. The top meaningful upregulated gene sets in the fat graft model were related to the epithelial-mesenchymal transition and hypoxia on day 3, and angiogenesis on day 7. Mechanistically, the glycolytic pathway was upregulated in the fat graft model at days 3 (FDR q = 0.012) and 7 (FDR q = 0.084). In subsequent experiments, pharmacological inhibition of the glycolytic pathway in mouse fat grafts with 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2-DG) significantly suppressed fat graft retention rates, both grossly and microscopically (n = 5).

CONCLUSIONS

Free adipose tissue grafts undergo metabolic reprogramming toward the glycolytic pathway. Future studies should examine whether targeting this pathway can enhance the graft survival rate.

DATA AND MATERIALS AVAILABILITY

RNA-seq data were deposited in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database under accession number GSE203599.

Fat Graft Retention: Adipose Tissue, Adipose-Derived Stem Cells, and Aging

SUMMARY

Over the past 30 years, there has been a dramatic increase in the use of autologous fat grafting for soft-tissue augmentation and to improve facial skin quality. Several studies have highlighted the impact of aging on adipose tissue, leading to a decrease of adipose tissue volume and preadipocyte proliferation and increase of fibrosis. Recently, there has been a rising interest in adipose tissue components, including adipose-derived stem/stromal cells (ASCs) because of their regenerative potential, including inflammation, fibrosis, and vascularization modulation. Because of their differentiation potential and paracrine function, ASCs have been largely used for fat grafting procedures, as they are described to be a key component in fat graft survival. However, many parameters as surgical procedures or adipose tissue biology could change clinical outcomes. Variation on fat grafting methods have led to numerous inconsistent clinical outcomes. Donor-to-donor variation could also be imputed to ASCs, tissue inflammatory state, or tissue origin. In this review, the authors aim to analyze (1) the parameters involved in graft survival, and (2) the effect of aging on adipose tissue components, especially ASCs, that could lead to a decrease of skin regeneration and fat graft retention.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT

This review aims to enlighten surgeons about known parameters that could play a role in fat graft survival. ASCs and their potential mechanism of action in regenerative medicine are more specifically described.

Recent advances in surgical techniques for breast reconstruction

Although the number of patients with breast cancer continues to rise worldwide, survival rates for these patients have significantly improved. As a result, breast cancer survivors are living longer, and quality of life after treatment is of increasing importance. Breast reconstruction is an important component that affects quality of life after breast cancer surgery. With the development of silicone gel implants in the 1960s, autologous tissue transfer in the 1970s, and tissue expanders in the 1980s, breast reconstruction has advanced over the decades. Furthermore, the advent of perforator flaps and introduction of fat grafting have rendered breast reconstruction a less invasive and more versatile procedure. This review provides an overview of recent advances in breast reconstruction techniques.

Patient-Reported Outcomes After Autologous Fat Grafting in Prosthetic Breast Reconstruction: Prospective Cohort Study Using a Multivariate Analysis

INTRODUCTION

There is widespread recognition of the importance of assessment of patient satisfaction and well-being after breast reconstruction. However, few studies of fat grafting performed simultaneously with implant-based breast reconstruction (IBBR) have accounted for confounding factors, such as patient background and information bias. The aim of this study was to examine patient satisfaction and well-being using multivariate analysis of BREAST-Q scores in patients treated with IBBR combined with fat grafting.

METHODS

Seventy-one consecutive patients who underwent IBBR with silicone breast implants were enrolled for a prospective cohort study. Among these patients, 56 responded to the BREAST-Q questionnaire, including 24 who underwent fat grafting at the same time as IBBR (FAT+ group) and 32 who underwent IBBR alone (FAT- group). The BREAST-Q questionnaire was completed 1 year after surgery. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive and summary statistics to identify differences between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

Logistic regression analysis showed that the FAT+ group was significantly more likely than the FAT- group to have satisfaction with breasts (P = 0.0201) and satisfaction with outcome (P = 0.0364).

CONCLUSIONS

Multivariate analysis with consideration of confounding factors indicated that addition of fat grafting to IBBR improves outcomes of breast reconstruction. These results suggest that a minor surgical procedure of fat grafting can improve patient satisfaction and outcomes after breast reconstruction.

Function-preserving fat grafting in the breast: Results based on 18 years of experience

BACKGROUND

Autologous fat transplantation has been used for breast nearly 40 years, but there are two main problems: the volume retention rate is unpredictable, leading to too many operations, and various complications, such as nodules, necrosis and calcification, occur.

OBJECTIVE

The author proposed "function-preserving fat grafting" (FPFG) and reviewed the clinical data of patients from October 2002 to December 2020.

METHODS

A total of 1218 patients underwent surgery, and 767 patients were followed up for more than half a year. Their ages ranged from 22 to 61 (31.9±10.1) years, and the BMI values ranged from 16.1 to 28.2 (20.6±2.73) kg/m2. Group I included 703 cases of breast aesthetic augmentation, group II included 38 cases of breast reconstruction after mastectomy (10 cases after radiotherapy and 7 cases after the Brava device was worn) and group III included 26 cases of simultaneous implant exchange with fat.

RESULTS

At 6 months after the operation, 89.8% of the patients were satisfied with the outcome. For these patients, aesthetic augmentation required 1.9±0.73 procedures, and the unilateral breast injection volume was 180-380 ml (265.5±46.6); breast reconstruction required an average of 3.4±0.71 procedures, and the unilateral injection volume was 140-370 ml (233.9±67.7). The simultaneous implant exchange volume with fat was 160-320 ml (241.3±35.8 ml). There were 9 cases (1.2%) of palpable nodules, 3 cases of infection (0.39%), and no other severe complications.

CONCLUSIONS

FPFG has the advantages of requiring few operations; leading to few necrosis, oil cysts and nodules; and leading to high postoperative satisfaction.

Safety and Effectiveness of Single Session Mega Volume Fat Grafting for Breast Augmentation: A Space-Creating Concept and Clinical Experiences

BACKGROUND

The main drawback of fat transfer breast augmentation is the need for multiple sessions of fat injection. For approximately 15 years, stem cells and the Brava device for breast expansion have been discussed and extensively investigated to address relevant challenges. However, the safety and effectiveness of autologous fat transfer as a single-session primary breast augmentation technique has not yet been standardized.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to achieve mega volume fat breast augmentation in a single session by developing a "space-creating" approach that emphasizes the use of highly purified fat to achieve an optimized surgical outcome with large-volume breast augmentation.

METHODS

Female patients who underwent aesthetic breast augmentation (October 2013-October 2020) involving the application of this space-creating technique for mega volume autologous fat transfer were retrospectively enrolled. Inclusion criteria were patients with hypomastia, breast asymmetry, and volume replacement following implant removal with BMI ≥18.5 kg/m2. After macrospace creation, highly purified fat was injected in several rounds during the procedure. A breast massage was performed between each stage (microspace creation). Breast circumference, nipple-inframammary fold distance, and cup size were recorded during 6 months of follow-up.

RESULTS

Three hundred fifty-eight patients met the inclusion criteria. Average fat injection volumes of 510.9 mL in the right breast and 490.8 mL in the left breast resulted in at least a 2 cup size increase. The significant outcome remained stable at 6 months after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

The space-creating technique and the injection of highly purified fat achieves stable cosmetic outcomes of mega volume breast augmentation in a single session.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4

Autologous Fat Grafting to the Breast: An Educational Review

Autologous fat grafting (AFG) is a technique that is increasingly utilized in breast cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. In this procedure, fat is aspirated by liposuction from one area of the body and injected into the breast. The procedure and process of AFG has evolved over the last few decades, leading to more widespread use, though there is no standard method. Autologous fat grafting is generally considered a safe procedure but may result in higher utilization of diagnostic imaging due to development of palpable lumps related to fat necrosis. Imaging findings depend on surgical technique but typically include bilateral, symmetric, retromammary oil cysts and scattered dystrophic and/or coarse calcifications when AFG is used for primary breast augmentation. More focal findings occur when AFG is used to improve specific areas of cosmetic deformity, scarring, or pain following breast cancer surgery. As with any cause of fat necrosis, imaging features tend to appear more benign over time, with development of rim calcifications associated with oil cysts and a shift in echogenicity of oil cyst contents on ultrasound towards anechoic in some cases. This article reviews the AFG procedure, uses, complications, and imaging findings.

Sting Technique: A New Procedure for Hypoplasic Lower Breast Poles

BACKGROUND

In breast augmentation patients affected by hypoplasic lower poles are a difficult challenge for plastic surgeons. Indeed in these cases it is difficult to create a nice and round contour, especially if a tight thoracic skin is present. Various techniques have been described in the past in order to solve this problem including parenchymal manipulation, fat grafting alone or after subcutaneous release of the stenotic tissue (Rigottomy). Following a large experience with the use of needles to deliver fat grafting in fibrotic tissue of different type of scars the Authors report in this paper their preliminary experience with a new surgical technique consisting of a multiple percutaneous stings of the skin and gland of the inferior breast quadrants associated to an implant to correct a flat, rigid and hypoplasic lower breast pole.

METHODS

A total of 24 patients affected by this malformation have been treated during the breast augmentation procedure using the above-mentioned technique. Hypoplasic lower poles (skin and subcutaneous tissues) have been punctured several times using an 18 G needle before inserting the implant. Results have been evaluated by the Authors and patients grading them from 0, extremely poor, to 10, extremely satisfactory outcome.

RESULTS

Aesthetic results evaluated by the surgeons group reported a mean outcome of 7.9, whereas the ones of the patients reported a mean value of 8.3. In one case a capsulotomy for monolateral capsular contracture was performed. In another patient the aesthetic result was revised performing a fat grafting in order to further correct the lower pole. In six cases a subcutaneous blood effusion, due to the prick of the skin, was experienced while in two patients with darker skin (Fitzpatrick III) the use of the needle left pigmented spots that completely disappeared after the use of hydroquinone cream 4% for two months.

CONCLUSIONS

Even with the limitations of this preliminary study, such as the small number of patients and the short follow-up, the sting technique seems to be an efficacious and safe new tool in the armamentarium of plastic surgeons to treat hypoplasic breasts with stenotic lower poles.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Autologous Fat Grafting as Treatment of Postmastectomy Pain Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Postmastectomy pain syndrome is a common and disabling side effect of breast cancer treatment. Medical treatment seems to be insufficient for a considerable proportion of patients. Fat grafting has shown promise in relieving pain from postmastectomy pain syndrome, but no randomized clinical trial comparing fat grafting to a sham operation has been performed to date. The authors' objective was to compare the effect of fat grafting compared to a sham operation for treating postmastectomy pain syndrome.

METHODS

The authors conducted a single-center, double-blind, randomized clinical trial with two arms between October of 2017 and September of 2020. The authors assessed four patients suffering from postmastectomy pain syndrome for inclusion. The intervention group received scar-releasing rigottomy and fat grafting to the area of pain. The control group received scar-releasing rigottomy and a placebo of saline solution. The primary outcome was the degree of pain measured using the Numerical Rating Scale. The secondary outcomes were the degree and quality of neuropathic pain (Neuropathic Pain Symptom Inventory) and quality of life (36-Item Short-Form Health Survey). Follow-up was 6 months.

RESULTS

Thirty-five participants completed follow-up: 18 participants in the intervention group and 17 in the control group. The authors detected no statistically significant changes in average and maximum pain or neuropathic pain. Regarding quality of life, the control group reported a statistically significant improvement in emotional problem parameters, whereas the intervention group reported a deterioration. The authors observed no serious adverse effects.

CONCLUSION

The authors did not find evidence to support that fat grafting is superior to a placebo when treating postmastectomy pain syndrome.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, I.

Recent Developments in Extracellular Matrix Remodeling for Fat Grafting

Remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM), which provides structural and biochemical support for surrounding cells, is vital for adipose tissue regeneration after autologous fat grafting. Rapid and high-quality ECM remodeling can improve the retention rate after fat grafting by promoting neovascularization, regulating stem cells differentiation, and suppressing chronic inflammation. The degradation and deposition of ECM are regulated by various factors, including hypoxia, blood supply, inflammation, and stem cells. By contrast, ECM remodeling alters these regulatory factors, resulting in a dynamic relationship between them. Although researchers have attempted to identify the cellular sources of factors associated with tissue regeneration and regulation of the microenvironment, the factors and mechanisms that affect adipose tissue ECM remodeling remain incompletely understood. This review describes the process of adipose ECM remodeling after grafting and summarizes the factors that affect ECM reconstruction. Also, this review provides an overview of the clinical methods to avoid poor ECM remodeling. These findings may provide new ideas for improving the retention of adipose tissue after fat transplantation.

The Influence of Low- and High-Negative-Pressure Liposuction and Different Harvesting Sites on the Viability and Yield of Adipocytes and Other Nucleated Cells

BACKGROUND

The volume effect of fat grafting is highly dependent on the presence of viable adipocytes and other nucleated cells within the lipoaspirate. We suspected that one of the crucial factors influencing cell viability is the negative pressure applied during the fat graft harvesting and the suitability of various harvest sites when compared to others. Despite much discussion, there is no consensus on the optimal negative pressure or the best site for harvesting so we designed an experiment to test this.

METHODS

Fat graft taken under low negative pressure (- 200 mmHg) or high negative pressure (- 700 mmHg) from the thigh or abdominal regions from 21 healthy human donors was evaluated. The principal variables studied were: a) total number and viability of nucleated cells, b) liposuction duration and c) blood admixture. Other variables studied were body mass index, the impact of age and enzymatic digestion.

RESULTS

The absolute number and viability of nucleated cells and the blood admixture did not differ significantly between lipoaspirates obtained under different vacuum conditions or from different regions. The time taken to acquire the same volume of lipoaspirate was significantly increased using low negative pressure. The time taken to collect cells in the thigh region significantly increased with increasing BMI but this correlation was not found when harvesting in the abdominal region. The BMI and age did not impact the results in any of the measured variables. The enzymatic digestion rate was independent of the negative pressure used to harvest.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that neither the negative pressure used nor the area chosen has any significant influence on the viability and yield of harvested cells. The time taken to obtain lipoaspirate using low pressure is significantly longer than when using high pressure. No significant difference was found in the value of blood admixture using different vacuum pressures, and no correlation exists between the body mass index and the cell viability or age of the patients and the time of liposuction.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine Ratings, please refer to Table of Contents or online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Treating Anisomastia and Tuberous Breast with Fat Grafting: Technique and Evaluation of Outcomes Using BREAST-Q Surveys

BACKGROUND

In the surgical correction of tuberous breast deformity, implants and regional flaps play a prominent role. Lately, fat grafting has been used as an alternative, but there is evidence that patient satisfaction is higher after correction with implants compared with lipofilling.

METHODS

We report a tuberous breasts correction series of ten cases, enrolled between 2015 and 2018. Percutaneous fasciotomies and fat grafting were performed by the Body-Jet technique. Analysis of outcomes was undertaken with BREAST-Q surveys.

RESULTS

The breast satisfaction scores increased from 0 to 75 (p < 0.01), the psychological well-being scores from 20 to 70 (p < 0.01) and the sexual well-being scores from 18.5 to 58 (p = 0.02), while the physical well-being scores remained stable (from 68 to 63, p = 0.2). The median outcome satisfaction score was 86.

CONCLUSION

Scores of patient-reported outcomes after lipofilling can reach and even exceed those of patients corrected with implants, at the cost of more interventions. Fat grafting is beginning to establish itself as a true alternative in the treatment of tuberous breast deformity in patients with the appropriate fat deposits.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine Ratings, please refer to Table of Contents or online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Efficacy and Safety of External Volume Expansion (EVE) on Fat Grafting: A Systematic Review and Single-Arm Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

The autologous fat grafting is commonly used for reconstructive or aesthetic purposes. However, due to the huge variation in methods, its retention rate varies a lot. External volume expansion (EVE) has been used to treat recipient sites of fat grafting. Concerns have been raised regarding its efficacy and safety.

METHODS

We have searched PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library for studies on EVE-assisted fat grafting published from 2000 to 2020. A meta-analysis was conducted to pool the retention rate. The incidence of complications was assessed for reconstructive or aesthetic purposes.

RESULTS

The 11 included studies involved 1152 patients with operations on 1794 breasts. Four studies were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled retention rate was 65% [95%CI 49, 79]. Eight studies reported the complications. The total complication incidence was 34%, which is 35% for the aesthetic group and 33% for the reconstructive group. The complication rate was not obviously different between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The study shows that the EVE-assisted fat grafting has better retention rate than traditional fat grafting. However, the data showed that the complication rate was much higher in the EVE-assisted group.

Improving Low-Density Fat by Condensing Cellular and Collagen Content through a Mechanical Process: Basic Research and Clinical Applications

BACKGROUND

Large-volume fat grafting results in high absorption and complication rates. Low-density fat includes small numbers of viable cells and considerable oil, resulting in nodules and oil cysts. This study evaluated a strategy for large-volume fat grafting using a mechanical process to condense low-density fat and transplanting it with high-density fat.

METHODS

Low-density fat, defined as the upper half of centrifuged lipoaspirates, was emulsified by intersyringe shifting and centrifuged to obtain condensed low-density fat. Fresh condensed low-density fat was analyzed by counting cells in the stromal vascular fraction, and by electron scanning and Western blotting. The retention rate and histologic changes of the product were analyzed using a fat grafting model in nude mice. Transplantation with a combination of condensed low-density fat and high-density fat was tested in patients undergoing breast reconstruction and breast augmentation.

RESULTS

The condensed low-density fat derived from low-density fat contained a large number of stromal vascular fraction cells and collagens, comparable to that of high-density fat and much higher than in low-density fat and Coleman fat. Retention rates 12 weeks after transplantation were higher for condensed low-density fat (55.0 ± 7.5 percent) than for low-density fat (31.1 ± 5.7 percent) and Coleman fat (41.1 ± 6.8 percent), with condensed low-density fat having fewer oil cysts and lower macrophage infiltration. Patients grafted with combined condensed low-density fat and high-density fat showed good long-term volume retention.

CONCLUSIONS

Using mechanical methods to condense low-density fat to a level comparable to that of high-density fat is a practical method of improving fat graft retention and avoiding severe complications. This new strategy may improve the quality of lipoaspirates for patients requiring large-volume augmentation.

Fat Grafting and Auto-Augmentation Mastopexy After Breast Implant Removal: Technique and Evaluation of Outcomes Using BREAST-Q

BACKGROUND

Auto-augmentation mastopexy after implant removal has been described as a possible alternative for women who do not opt for implant replacement and decline major reconstructive surgery.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate patient satisfaction after auto-augmentation mastopexy relative to the final breast volume and to assess the role of fat grafting on patients' satisfaction and quality of life according to the BREAST-Q questionnaire.

METHODS

Forty-seven breasts from 28 patients who underwent implant removal and auto-augmentation mastopexy were reviewed; 9 patients (group 1) were primarily treated with several fat grafting sessions with subsequent auto-augmentation, 5 (group 2) were treated primarily with auto-augmentation, but subsequently expressed a wish for breast augmentation by lipofilling, and 14 patients (group 3, control) had only auto-augmentation.

RESULTS

Group 1 patients maintained their breast volume, and showed significant improvements in breast satisfaction, psychosocial well-being, and contentment with breast surgery outcomes (P = 0.01, ˂0.01, and ˂0.01, respectively). However, the physical well-being of this group, as well as response to final cup size or interaction parameters, did not improve (P = 0.06). In group 2, all except 1 patient had breast volume reduction to A cup, as was the case with one-third of the patients in control group 3 (group 3A, n = 5) who scored lower, and thus were less satisfied with the breast auto-augmentation than group 3B, who achieved final bigger cup sizes (P ˂ 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Auto-augmentation mastopexy resulted in substantial improvements in the parameters measured by BREAST-Q. Thus, combined auto-augmentation mastopexy and lipofilling provided a better alternative treatment after breast implant removal.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4

Large-Volume Autologous Fat Grafting to the Breast

Autologous fat grafting in the setting of breast augmentation and reconstruction has become globally accepted and routinely performed. There is general consensus that small-volume grafting is reproducible and predictable; however, large-volume fat grafting (>100 mL) is less predictable and is not as commonly performed. The aim of this article was to review outcomes following large-volume and megavolume fat grafting in the setting of breast augmentation and reconstruction. Level of Evidence: 4.

Adjunctive Procedures and Informed Consent with Breast Implant Explantation

BACKGROUND

The use of injectable or implantable materials or devices in the breast for augmentation or reconstruction has a history of innovation and controversy. Staying current in the field of breast implant management today means understanding not just the published literature but also its absence. Cutting edge breast implant treatment also means awareness of patient and media-driven interests and requests.

METHODS

Adjuvant treatments to optimize physical and psychological well-being with breast implant explantation, without replacement, will be addressed through literature review and analysis.

RESULTS

The body of literature demonstrates evidence of variable, and sometimes contradictory, methods to address adjunctive management of systemic concerns, the capsule, soft tissue of the native breast/chest, and treatment timing related to explantation. Few approaches are supported by very strong evidence. Many treatment methodologies are defensible. Any current attempts at optimizing management in patients undergoing explantation will be somewhat impaired by the ongoing nebulousness of related issues, such as breast implant illness. It seems clear, therefore, that plastic surgeons must fulfill their duty as caregivers to provide explantation surgery, either to attempt to improve physical health, mental well-being, or simply to respect patients' wishes. A well-informed surgeon will likely employ a variety of approaches, adapted to the unique patient presentations at hand.

CONCLUSION

It is expected that consultations, incisions, tissue rearrangements, surgical timing, and treatment indications will continue to vary as scientific investigation strives to understand and to optimize treatment of patients experiencing difficulty with breast implants.

Fat Processing Techniques: A Narrative Review

OBJECTIVE

This study reviewed the literature regarding different fat processing techniques, in order to update the information for healthcare personnel and provide the latest evidence in selecting purification methods.

METHODS

PubMed (MEDLINE), EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were comprehensively searched to identify studies that compared different fat purification methods for animal and human studies published through July 2020. Papers were screened using inclusion and exclusion criteria, and relative data were collected for review.

RESULTS

A total of 3292 studies were identified, of which 30 were included for review. The findings of existing clinical studies showed that the filtration and washing filtration methods performed better in the volume retention rate of adipose tissue. In terms of postoperative complications (fat necrosis, nodules, cysts, etc.), the incidence of complications of centrifugation is generally higher than that of other purification methods, while Telfa gauze and washing filtration system show better safety. More comparative studies are needed to draw conclusions about clinical efficacy and satisfaction. The existing basic science studies generally believe that centrifugation has no advantage in the integrity and metabolic activity of adipose tissue. However, there is no definite conclusion about the volume retention rate of grafts in animal experiments.

CONCLUSION

In recent years, studies on the cost-effectiveness of various purification methods have emerged, and the efficiency advantages of commercial systems have also been gradually reflected. In the future, the purification efficiency will be improved based on ensuring clinical efficacy, which will be translated into cost savings.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Blood Impairs Viability of Fat Grafts and Adipose Stem Cells: Importance of Washing in Fat Processing

BACKGROUND

Fat processing plays a pivotal role in graft survival. Each component of the blood in lipoaspirate affects fat survival in different ways, but the mechanisms are not clear.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to investigate, by various experimental methods, the effect of blood on the viability of fat grafts and adipose stem cells (ASCs).

METHODS

Blood and fat samples were obtained from 6 female patients undergoing aesthetic liposuction. For the in vivo experiment, we compared fat mixed with normal saline or various ratios of blood in nude mice. The samples were explanted at 2 and 8 weeks to evaluate the gross volume retention and histologic and immunohistochemical characteristics. For in vitro experiments, ASCs were pretreated with hemoglobin at different concentrations and for different times. We then assessed the proliferation, migration, adipogenesis, and reactive oxygen species production of ASCs.

RESULTS

Blood in the graft led to a decrease in graft viability, as evaluated by general observation and histologic and immunohistochemical morphology in vivo. In vitro experiments showed inhibited proliferation, migration, and adipogenesis, and increased reactive oxygen species production in ACSs, after hemoglobin treatment, suggesting impaired ASC viability.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that blood impairs the viability of fat grafts and ASCs and provides evidence that washing to remove blood is important in fat processing.

Total breast reconstruction using large-volume condensed and viable fat grafting after mastectomy

Autologous fat grafting (AFG) has become a third alternative for breast reconstruction after mastectomy. However, total breast reconstruction using AFG remains a great challenge. We performed breast reconstruction using large-volume condensed and viable fat grafting in 30 postmastectomy patients (irradiated, n = 9; nonirradiated, n = 21). The grafts were purified and condensed by the washing and cotton gauze rolling technique. The surgical maneuver is designed to preserve the grafts viability. Three-dimensional expansion was applied where strong adhesions were present. Seven patients wore the Brava device for the expansion of the recipient site. The mean (SD) volume of fat grafted in each procedure was 230.5 (57.8) mL. The average number of sessions was 3.3 (0.7). The irradiated patients required more sessions than the nonirradiated patients (p=.017). The mean follow-up period was 12.8 (4.3) months. One patient (3%) developed postoperative cellulitis. Cysts and palpable nodules occurred in eight patients (27%) and one patient (3%), respectively. Severe dermatitis and skin pigmentation change occurred in one patient wearing the Brava device. The esthetic scores significantly improved after the treatments (p<.001). Approximately 90% of the patients were satisfied. No local recurrence or remote metastasis was documented during the follow-up period. Our study showed the success of total breast reconstruction using AFG. As a third alternative for breast reconstruction, total breast reconstruction using large volume condensed and viable fat grafting is an effective and safe approach for postmastectomy patients.

Fat-augmented latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap for total breast reconstruction: A report of 54 consecutive Asian cases

Immediate fat grafting to the latissimus dorsi myocutaneous (LD) flaps is a breakthrough that addresses the issue of insufficient volume of LD. However, the use of this procedure in Asian patients has not yet been reported. Retrospective chart reviews were conducted on 54 Japanese cases of total breast reconstruction using fat-augmented LD flaps at our hospital from September 2017 to June 2019. There were 24 immediate reconstruction cases, 18 immediate two-stage reconstruction cases, nine delayed reconstruction cases, and three delayed two-stage reconstruction cases. Median age was 46 years (range, 29-69 years), and median body mass index was 21.5 (17-33.8). Median mastectomy specimen and flap weight was 225 g (123-993) and 225 g (130-796), respectively. The median volume of fat graft was 114 ml (46-305) for the LD flap and 58 ml (15-200) for the pectoralis major muscle. Of the 53 completed reconstruction cases, 38 (71.7%) achieved sufficient volume with the initial operation and six (11.3%) required additional fat grafting. The proportion of cases in the immediate reconstruction group, which achieved sufficient volume in the initial operation was significantly higher than those of the other three reconstruction groups (p = 0.007). Total breast reconstruction with fat-augmented LD flaps is a viable procedure for thin patients who have insufficient abdominal tissue, for those who wish to avoid abdominal scars, and for those in whom abdominal flaps have already been used. The procedure allows for large volume transplantation even with small skin paddles, which allows for smaller skin paddles to be designed without the need for extensive subcutaneous dissection.

Adipose-derived stem cell enrichment is counter-productive for the majority of women seeking primary aesthetic breast augmentation by autologous fat transfer: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Autologous lipotransfer (AL) is a popular method despite unpredictable retention rates. Higher retention rates have been reported when co-administering adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs), a process called cell-assisted lipotransfer (CAL). Our hypothesis is that CAL might indeed limit volume gain in most women seeking aesthetic breast augmentation because it doubles the amount of fat required without consistently improving the outcome.

METHODS

Electronic databases were searched for articles published between January 2008 and October 2019 in English and German. All original articles evaluating fat viability following autologous breast augmentation in vivo were included. Based on the reported retention rates, potential volume gains were estimated for CAL and AL.

RESULTS

A total of 23 studies were selected. The AL retention rate varied from 39% to 76%, whereas CAL increased this rate at best by 24%. The body mass index (BMI) ranged from 18.8 to 23.4 (20.4±1.6) in the study population, whereas the BMI of women in the same age group is 28.7 (±8.4). We calculated that, starting from 200 ml of harvested fat and after two sessions of AL of 100 ml each, the volume retained would be at most 152 ml. In contrast, after one session of CAL of 100 ml, while the remaining 100 ml are used to isolate ASCs, a maximum of 95 ml of fat would remain.

CONCLUSION

The volume gain after two sessions of AL is far superior to that after one session of CAL for the same volume of harvested fat. This is an important practical consideration for women with low BMI, as the extra fat required to isolate ASCs is not counterbalanced by an increase in the retention rate. Therefore, two sessions of AL may be preferable to maximize the volume gain.

Autologous Facial Fat Transfer: Soft Tissue Augmentation and Regnenerative Therapy

Soft-tissue contour deficiencies depend on various origins including esthetics, congenital and post trauma asymmetries, post tumor defects, and chronic wound sequelae. Reconstructions or repairs are still a challenge today. Fat grafting is an old reconstructive technique dating back to 1893, but it has only recently become popular, especially among plastic surgeons. Being generally disregarded by medical practitioners for many years, adipose tissue has come into the spotlight because it is omnipresent and easily obtainable in substantial quantities with little patient discomfort and no relevant donor-site morbidity. Particularly, adipose tissue contains more multipotent cells per cc than bone marrow does. For example, 1 g of adipose tissue yields ∼5 × 10 stem cells, that is, 100-fold higher than the number of mesenchymal stem cells in 1 g of bone marrow. In reconstructive surgery, both adipose tissue aspiration and fat transfer have become typical surgical procedures. It is quite easy to harvest an abundant volume of tissue, obtaining a large amount of isolated stem and therapeutically active cells without needing cell expansion in tissue culture facilities. This procedure will likely mark the beginning of a new era in both regenerative medicine and facial-craniofacial reconstructions.

Spontaneously generated large adipose flaps in vivo tissue engineering chambers

AIM

Previous experiments using our in vivo tissue engineering chamber (TEC) model demonstrated that adipose flap was spontaneously generated without the need for adipocyte or stem cell implantation. The purposes of the present study are to clarify 1) the reproducibility of this method to create adipose flaps, 2) the time-course of adipogenesis, and 3) the long-term stability of the adipose flap generated.

METHODS

The chambers that afforded a protected space for tissue growth were implanted into the groins of rabbits. A vascular pedicle as the vascular source of newly formed tissue, a collagen sponge as a scaffold, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) as growth factors were contained within the chamber. There were three experimental groups according to the implantation period of the chamber; Group 4 w, Group 8 w, and Group 12 w (n = 5 in each group).

RESULTS

The percent volumes of the combined adipose/pedicle tissue compared with the total volume of the generated tissue were 14.8% (0.437 cm³/2.96 cm³), 47% (0.87 cm³/1.85 cm³) and 80% (1.82 cm³/2.27 cm³) in Groups 4 w, 8 w, and 12 w, respectively. When a 12-week adipose flap was transferred outside the chamber on its vascular pedicle and retained for a further five months, it became more like mature adipose tissue and had increased fat density.

CONCLUSION

Adipose flaps were spontaneously generated in vivo in TECs at 12 weeks with reproducibility and showed long-term stability outside the chamber following pedicle transfer. The tissue-engineered adipose flap will contribute to breast reconstruction and augmentation without donor-site morbidity.

Recipient-Site Preconditioning with Deferoxamine Increases Fat Graft Survival by Inducing VEGF and Neovascularization in a Rat Model

BACKGROUND

The authors hypothesize that ischemic preconditioning of the recipient site with deferoxamine will increase fat graft survival by enhancing angiogenesis in a rat model.

METHODS

Cell viability, tube formation, and mRNA expression were measured in human umbilical vein endothelial cells treated with deferoxamine. A total of 36 rats were then used for an in vivo study. A dose of 100 mg/kg of deferoxamine was injected subcutaneously into the rat scalp every other day for five treatments. On the day after the final injection, the scalp skin was harvested from half the animals to evaluate the effects of deferoxamine on the recipient site. In the remaining animals, inguinal fat tissue was transplanted to the scalp. Eight weeks after transplantation, the grafts were harvested to evaluate the effects of deferoxamine preconditioning on fat graft survival.

RESULTS

In human umbilical vein endothelial cells, treatment with a deferoxamine concentration higher than 400 μM decreased cell viability compared with the control (p = 0.002). Treatment with 100 and 200 μM deferoxamine increased endothelial tube formation (p = 0.001) and mRNA levels of angiogenesis-related factors (p = 0.02). Rat scalps treated with deferoxamine exhibited increased capillary neoformation (p = 0.001) and vascular endothelial growth factor protein expression (p = 0.024) compared with controls. Fat graft volume retention, capillary density (p < 0.001), and adipocyte viability (p < 0.001) in the grafted fat increased when the recipient site was preconditioned with deferoxamine.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that recipient site preconditioning with deferoxamine increases fat graft survival by inducing vascular endothelial growth factor and neovascularization.

Comparative Analysis of Two Automated Fat-processing Systems

Plastic surgeons desire more efficient methods of processing lipoaspirate when performing fat grafting procedures. We compared, in a preclinical study, the quantity and quality of lipoaspirate processed by a novel Poloxamer Wash, Absorption, mesh filtration System (PWAS) to a frequently used Ringer's Lactate wash, Decant, and mesh filtration System (RLDS).

Methods

Lipoaspirate from 10 patients was processed with the RLDS and PWAS systems. The processed lipoaspirate from each device was centrifuged to quantify the amount of fat, free oil, and aqueous components remaining in the fat graft. A trypan blue dye exclusion test assessed cell viability. The processing time for the lipoaspirate was also measured.

Results

The 10-patient average fat volume processed and available for grafting was similar using both systems. The adipose volume fraction of PWAS was greater (89% ± 3%) than RLDS (76% ± 10%, P = 0.02). The trypan blue exclusion values and processing time were similar for both systems. Oil was efficiently removed from the lipoaspirate, and both systems processed fat efficiently.

Conclusion

The PWAS effectively cleans lipoaspirate with increased fat concentration.

Better clinical outcome for autologous fat transplant combined with silicone gel prosthesis for breast augmentation: Evidence from meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the combination of autologous fat transplantation and silicone gel prosthesis implantation for breast augmentation surgery.

METHODS

With "autologous fat", "silicone prosthesis", "combined with", "combination", "breast augmentation" and "clinical effect" as search keywords, a thorough literature search was performed throughout the Chinese databases (CBMdisc, Wanfang, CNKI and Chongqing VIP) and English databases (PUBMED and EMBASE) and after cross-referencing and reading, literature conforming with the inclusion and exclusion criteria were analyzed and significant data related to autologous fat transplantation combined with silicone prosthesis in breast augmentation surgery was collected and meta-analyzed.

RESULTS

21 full-text articles were included into the meta-analysis study: Autologous fat transplantation combined with silicone gel prosthesis implantation not only enhancedthe long-term postoperative breast shape recovery, but also fundamentally managed the underlying drawbacks of using autologous fat graft transplantation or prosthesis alone, decreasing the rate of procedure related morbidity and complications.

CONCLUSION

The application of the combination of autologous fat transplantation with silicone gel prosthesis implantation in breast augmentation surgery has shown good and stable clinical outcome while simultaneously reducing the rate of complication related to the application of either method alone. Hence, this combination is worth exploration and promotion since it offers better manageable clinical outcome at low risk of complication.