During follow-up, breast cancer recurrences developed in 5.6 percent of patients. Follow-up mammograms from women who underwent breast-conserving surgery and lipofilling showed new abnormalities in 12 cases, two of which were recurrent breast cancers. There was no evidence that lipofilling interfered with the ability to detect recurrence. However, Dr. Petit and colleagues emphasize that a biopsy of the area should be obtained if there is any doubt.

Lipofilling is a promising option for breast contouring after breast reconstruction or lumpectomy in women with breast cancer. However, the procedure remains controversial. Although the new study can't prove that lipofilling after breast cancer surgery is safe, it provides reassurance that the complication rate is low. It also suggests that lipofilling doesn't interfere with follow-up mammograms after breast-conserving surgery.

The researchers emphasize the need for further studies of lipofilling after breast cancer surgery, including a larger group of patients, a matched control group, and long-term follow-up. "Until then," Dr. Petit and coauthors conclude, "lipofilling should be performed in experienced hands and a cautious oncologic follow up protocol is advised."

Source Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery