Augmentation-Mastopexy With 4-Layer Autologous Fat Grafting and Evaluation of Viability With MRI

Abstract

Abstract BackgroundAutologous fat (AF) grafting is widely used in plastic surgery and is generally considered a safe and effective procedure. A combined approach utilizing vibration amplification of sound energy at resonance (VASER) to prepare AF grafts with a 4-layer fat grafting technique was explored in this study. ObjectivesTo offer a customized solution that accommodates individual anatomical differences. MethodsThis retrospective, cross-sectional case series involved 40 breasts from 20 female patients who underwent primary augmentation-mastopexy. After removing excess breast tissue and exposing the pedicle, lateral pillars, and pectoral muscle, the 4-layer fat grafting was performed as follows: 150 mL of AF under the pectoral muscle directed toward the medial and central zones; 100 mL into the pectoral muscle toward these zones; 50 mL under the pectoral fascia, moving retrograde from cephalic to caudal portions at a 30° to 45° cannula angle. After closing the epithelial and subepithelial incisions, an additional 100 to 150 mL of AF was injected under the subcutaneous layer around the breast, depending on each patient's contour and breast shape. Patients were monitored for 2 years with MRI scans to assess breast volume, anatomy, and fat graft survival. ResultsThe average follow-up was 26 ± 2.81 months. MRI evaluations indicated an efficient survival rate of the fat grafts. None of the patients experienced minor or major complications. ConclusionsThe 4-layer AF grafting technique appears to be a safe and effective procedure for customized breast sculpting in augmentation-mastopexy surgery, with a high rate of fat graft sustainability and survival. Level of Evidence: 4