A Preliminary Exploratory Study of Autologous Fat Transplantation in Breast Augmentation With Different Fat Transplantation Planes.

Background: Autologous fat transfer is common in breast augmentationor reconstruction. However, AFG recipient site in the breast for fat grafting has not been carefully investigated. Methods: Forty female patients requiring breast augmentation with fat grafting were randomly assigned into two groups. The retromammary group received 2/3 fat into the retromammary space and the other 1/3 into the subcutaneous and retropectoral planes. The retropectoral group received 2/3 fat into the retropectoral plane and the other 1/3 into the subcutaneous and retromammary planes. The fat grafting result at 6 months was assessed by 3D laser surface scanning and then ultrasound. Any complications were recorded during follow-up. Samples from a patient who underwent fat grafting for 6 months was obtained and histological examination was conducted. Results: No significant difference in the retention rate after 6 months was observed between the two groups (retromammary group: 35.9% ± 6.6; retropectoral group: 39.3% ± 5.1, Conclusion: Although fat grafting into the retropectoral plane did not provide a superior fat graft retention rate, it did lower the incidence of complications. The retropectoral space show great potential to become a favorable recipient site.