Assessing Fat Grafting in Breast Surgery: A Narrative Review of Evaluation Techniques

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

Fat grafting has gained prominence in reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, necessitating accurate assessment methods for evaluating graft volume retention. This paper reviews various techniques for assessing fat and fat grafts, including their benefits and limitations. Three-dimensional (3D) scanning offers highly accurate, non-invasive volumetric assessments with minimal interference from breathing patterns. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is recognized as the gold standard, providing precise volumetric evaluations and sensitivity to complications like oil cysts and necrosis. Computed tomography (CT) is useful for fat volume assessment but may overestimate retention rates. Ultrasonography presents a reliable, non-invasive method for measuring subcutaneous fat thickness. Other methods, such as digital imaging, histological analysis, and weight estimation, contribute to fat graft quantification. The integration of these methodologies is essential for advancing fat graft assessment, promoting standardized practices, and improving patient outcomes in clinical settings.

Evidence level

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

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