Is Stem Cell Breast Reconstruction a Reality Today?

There is a virtual news storm on television and over the internet concerning stem cell reconstruction of the breast since an announcement by Suzanne Somers, a noted television personality, that she had chosen stem cell reconstruction of her breast after lumpectomy and radiation. The story has been covered by popular programs such as Dr. Oz, and CBS news which carried a story about the new way stem cells re-grow the breast. The internet now is blanketed with stories about stem cell breast reconstructions, and clinics have begun to advertise the merits of the technique.

We have known that fat grafting is gaining ground for facial rejuvenation, breast enhancement, and correcting dents and defects. We know also that abdominal fat does indeed carry stem cells, which are the ‘originators’ of all tissues. Teams of researchers have been investigating methods to separate and enhance the stem cells with growth factors to improve the results of grafting. Many of the publications have come from a team in Japan under Dr. Yoshimura who actually came to the U.S. to participate in Ms. Somers’ reconstruction, and there is ongoing work in the U.S., the U.K. and Australia to confirm and advance our medical knowledge.

Stem cell is the buzz phrase of today, and is extensively promoted in surgery and even in skin creams. So is stem cell enhanced breast reconstruction a reality today? Unfortunately, there is much hard work to be done before an FDA approved regimen is in clinical practice. We just don’t know enough about the process, the effect of growth factors, and risks. The FDA has a careful role to make certain that patients are not deceived, or at worst harmed. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons anticipated the explosive claims and promotion of stem cell therapy with a position statement which can be found on their website, which reinforces the fact that good science will lead to good medicine. In the meantime, structural fat grafting and replacement in the breast is now a taking shape and is supported by medical studies, and may be the basis of Ms. Somers’ fortunate result after all.