Autologous fat grafting harvesting and processing after breast reconstruction

Autologous fat grafting (AFG) is an easy and safe surgical procedure performed by plastic surgeons to correct breast contour deformities following breast cancer surgeries. However, conflicting results from clinical reports have led to the lack of consensus regarding the optimal AFG method. AFG can be divided into 3 main procedural steps: Harvesting, processing, and grafting, each of which can significantly affect the viable and functional aliquot of adipocytes and thus influence the graft reabsorption rate. Here, we describe the AFG protocol that we routinely perform in our clinical practice to correct contour deformities following breast reconstruction. Our protocol involves the use of an all-in-one, closed circuit device that enhances the ease and standardi-zation of the process, while maximizing its sterility. The harvested adipose tissue is centrifuged at 1260 g for 3 minutes to re-move the oil and serous fractions, and is then retrogradely injected in a multi-layered and multidirectional manner.