I've read fat transfers to the breasts increase the risks of calcification and of hindering mammograms. What happens when breast fat calcifies? And does transferred fat hinder mammograms any more or less than breast implants? Are there workarounds for this mammogram problem?
Thank you for sharing your excellent question. Fat that calcifies would appear on your mammogram and could be confused for breast cancer in some cases. That said most breast radiology specialists are able to differentiate the two, especially with comparing previous imaging. If there are concerns other radiology modalities, like an MRI can be used as well. Hope this helps.
Thanks for your excellent question. The changes that are seen from fat grafting appear a specific way on breast imaging and specifically trained breast radiologists are able to distinguish between calcifications that are benign vs potentially malignant. Having said that, if there is any question, this may lead to you having more imaging such as MRI’s or increased number of breast biopsies as well.
Please consult with a board certified plastic surgeon to determine which procedures are best to achieve your goals.
Best wishes!
Fat transfer to the breasts comes with its own peculiar risks and complications compared to augmentation with implants. However, both approaches can affect the results of mammography although current techniques of mammography allow radiologists to distinguish between benign(surgical) and cancerous calcification in most cases. Best of Luck Dr Harrell