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

BACKGROUND: 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. METHODS: 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. RESULTS: 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. CONCLUSIONS: 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. NO LEVEL ASSIGNED: 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 .