Latissimus Dorsi and Immediate Fat Transfer (LIFT) for Complete Autologous Breast Reconstruction

Despite the popularity of latissimus dorsi (LD) flap in breast reconstruction, a breast implant is often necessary to achieve sufficient volume. Prior reports describe fat grafting to the LD flap as a secondary procedure to correct contour deformities and improve volume. Our institution has instituted autologous breast reconstruction with an LD flap and immediate fat transfer (LIFT).

A retrospective review of all patients undergoing the LIFT procedure was undertaken. Patient age, total volume of fat transfer, length of follow-up, need for adjuvant therapy, and complications were recorded. The procedure begins with harvest of the LD flap and fat. Prior to disorigination of the latissimus muscle, fat is injected into the flap. Flap harvest is then completed and inset to create a breast mound.

Eighteen patients underwent LIFT procedures over 3 years with an average follow-up of 8.7 months (range, 2-24). Four breasts (22.2%) had previously received adjuvant radiation therapy. The mean total fat grafting volume was 515.5 mL (range, 325-730) per breast. The average estimated fat graft take was 66.8% (range, 50-80%). Four patients (22.2%) experienced complications.

Autologous augmentation of the LD flap with lipotransfer has been used to avoid placement of an implant. We improve the technique by performing lipotransfer during index reconstruction. Furthermore, we perform lipotransfer prior to disorigination of the LD muscle to minimize trauma to the flap and increase the efficiency of fat grafting. Our experience demonstrates that this technique is a viable autologous alternative to microsurgical breast reconstruction.