Breast fat graft survival rate
How is the survival rate measured?
The numbers for the same surgery vary depending on the measurement method. MRI, 3D volume measurement, and visual evaluation each yield different values.
The most reliable method in the literature is measuring pre- and post-implantation volume using MRI or 3D surface scans. Visual and photographic evaluations vary depending on the observer, making comparisons difficult.
Limit Comparisons are not possible if the measurement times differ. Immediately after surgery, swelling and saline solution are mixed, so using that point in time as the standard results in a calculated engraftment rate lower than the actual rate.
When should the graft survival rate be measured for accuracy?
You must measure it when absorption is complete and the condition stabilizes. Usually, the value stabilizes starting 6 months after surgery.
3 months — Absorption in progress · 6 months — Generally stable · 12 months and beyond — Almost no change
In the early stages, the transplanted fat is absorbed in the parts that are not reached by blood flow, leaving only the parts where blood vessels have grown. Only after this process is complete can the 'remaining amount' be counted.
Limit There is significant individual variation. The point of stabilization shifts back and forth depending on the infusion volume, injection layer, and body weight.
Does mixing SVF increase the survival rate compared to regular fat grafting?
While there are studies reporting this, not all studies reach the same conclusion. Results vary depending on the research design.
The theoretical basis is that SVF (stromal vascular fraction) contains cells involved in creating new blood vessels, which helps speed up blood flow to the transplanted fat.
Limit SVF isolation methods, cell counts, and injection volumes vary from study to study. It is difficult to directly compare the figures. It is not yet at the stage where we can definitively conclude that using SVF always results in higher scores.
What is the engraftment rate reported by SC301?
We reported an average of 77.48% in an 18-month follow-up. However, this figure is based on our patient group.
Average engraftment rate 77.48% · 18-month follow-up · SC301 proprietary clinical study (SCI · Oxford indexed)
Over 9,000 procedures performed (2007–19 years). The separation method is SVF separation via Collagenase enzyme treatment + centrifugation and 3D volume measurement.
Limit This is our own research and not an independent third-party verification study. Direct comparison of subject selection and measurement methods with other studies can lead to misunderstandings. Individual results vary depending on body type, fat status, and lifestyle habits.
This is based on our own research standards. It is not an independent third-party verified study, and therefore cannot be directly compared with studies involving different subjects or measurement methods.
Will my graft survival rate come out according to those numbers?
No. The average value is a group value, while individuals vary up and down depending on the conditions.
Factors affecting engraftment are ① the purity of the harvested fat, ② the amount injected into one site, ③ the blood flow conditions of the injected layer, and ④ postoperative weight changes and smoking status.
Limit We cannot provide a numerical estimate of an individual's expected graft survival rate without a medical examination. If a place makes such a definitive claim, please ask what basis they use.
How are the graft survival rate figures shown in advertisements verified?
You just need to ask four things — how many people, how much was tracked, how the measurements were taken, and where it was published.
Things to verify: ① Sample size ② Follow-up period ③ Measurement method (MRI, 3D, visual inspection) ④ Published journal
If there is no answer for even one of the four, the number is not suitable for comparison. In particular, if the tracking period is short, the value appears high because it is the value before absorption is complete.
Limit Just because a study is published in an academic journal does not mean it carries the same weight. You must also consider the study design (prospective/retrospective) and the presence or absence of a control group.
If I lose weight, will the transplanted fat also disappear?
Yes. Since the transplanted fat is your own fat, it follows your weight changes.
Fat cells that settle after transplantation behave just like the fat cells in the original area. They decrease when you lose weight and increase when you gain weight.
Limit Rapid weight loss causes you to lose fat before the grafts have fully taken root. It is safer to maintain your weight for at least six months after surgery.
