Stem-Cell-Assisted Lipotransfer and Platelet-Rich Plasma in Breast Reconstruction: A Literature Review

Autologous fat transplantation to the breast, a minimal invasive technique, has significantly expanded in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery over the past two decades. Initially used for lumpectomy defects or correcting contour deformities post-breast reconstruction, it is now also performed as a stand-alone technique for primary breast augmentation or as a complementary method to implant-based augmentation. However, this surgical technique is associated with a high absorption rate. The use of fat grafts for breast augmentation remains controversial due to concerns about its safety, efficacy, and impact on breast cancer.

This review examines the literature on cell-assisted lipotransfer (CAL) and PRP-assisted lipotransfer, comparing fat graft survival, complication rates, and oncological safety with conventional autologous lipotransfer.

CAL and PRP-assisted lipotransfer techniques demonstrate improved fat graft retention and reduced complications compared to conventional methods. Several studies report a potential reduction in the absorption rate of fat grafts with improvements in aesthetic outcomes.

While CAL and PRP-assisted lipotransfer have shown promising results in enhancing fat graft survival and reducing complications, there are still concerns about their oncological safety.

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each submission to which Evidence-Based Medicine rankings are applicable. This excludes Review Articles, Book Reviews, and manuscripts that concern Basic Science, Animal Studies, Cadaver Studies, and Experimental Studies. 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 .