How Stem Cells are Used

Stem cells have a variety of uses. For the breasts, these specialized cells add volume instantly, while facilitating the growth of blood vessels and fat for increased volume over time. Stem cells can create a beautiful and natural look. 

In the first stage of this type of reconstruction, stem cells are harvested through liposuction from another area of the body, such as the hips, buttocks, or thighs. Then, these cells are separated out and cleaned in a specialized machine. They are then ready to be injected within the breasts.

Patients who undergo the stem cell breast reconstruction procedure can also undergo hyperbaric therapy, which can encourage healing by increasing the amount of oxygen in the blood.

The Benefits of Stem Cell Reconstruction

Breast implants are traditionally used during reconstruction. Implant-based reconstruction is a great option for some patients, but others wish to use their own fat or tissue to rebuild the breasts. Stem cell reconstruction has its own unique benefits, which include:

They cause the natural regrowth of a patient's own fat tissue within the breast. The stem cells themselves are harvested from a patient's own body, so no foreign materials are used.

Stem cells can also be used to reconstruct the breasts after a lumpectomy, a procedure in which 50 to 75 percent of tissue can be lost. The injection of fat stem cells can restore lost volume and proportion.

Injections do not create scars like the incisions required for the insertion of implants.

Stem cells can be harvested and prepared for injection during a single surgery, or preserved for possible future use.

Because stem cells are harvested from areas with excess fat, patients have the added benefit of a slimmer, sleeker shape in the collection area. Liposuction can be performed on the thighs, buttocks, abdomen, and other areas.

Stem cells are especially beneficial to patients who have undergone radiation treatment for cancer. While radiation can damage the skin, skin cells aid in healing and can improve the texture, quality, and color of radiation-damaged skin in just a few months.