Autologous fat grafting in breast reconstruction: implications for follow-up and surveillance

Abstract: The procedural volume of autologous fat grafting (AFG) has risen over the past several years, specifically in the setting of breast reconstruction, despite controversy surrounding its oncologic safety. While some in vitro and animal models have cast doubt on the oncologic safety of AFG, there is no clinical evidence that AFG in breast reconstruction is associated with an increased risk of cancer development or recurrence or an inability to adequately assess changes in the breast. That being said, recommendations regarding surveillance and follow-up after AFG in breast reconstruction are largely surgeon directed and differ across practices. The purpose of this review is to summarize the current literature and provide evidence-based recommendations.