Is 3D Printing the Future of Breast Reconstruction?

There’s no other way to say it—3D printing is really cool! Used for everything from designer popsicles to prosthetic limbs, 3D printing has expanded the ways in which we can enhance peoples’ lives. So you can imagine my excitement as a plastic surgeon to learn that we may be one step closer to using 3D printing in breast reconstruction.

Two French researchers recently received an award for their prototype of a biodegradable breast implant shell that can be made with 3D printing. Called the Mat(t)issue, the implant is custom-printed to fit a woman’s desired shape and size using MRI scans as a “blueprint.” The researchers propose that the Mat(t)issue shell could be implanted in the affected breast and filled with fat harvested from another area, essentially creating an autologous fat-filled implant. Over time, the shell would dissolve, leaving behind natural fat only.

Could we soon have a new option for breast reconstruction?

The Mat(t)issue is still in the early stages of research—its developers predict at least 5 to 7 years before we see it come to market. However, it certainly shows promise as a new fat transfer breast reconstruction option with more predictable results than are currently possible with autologous fat injections.

Currently, fat injections can help improve results of another reconstruction method or restore a very small breast mound; for example, we can use fat to improve symmetry after tissue flap, hide the edges of saline or silicone breast implants, or add a small amount of volume with the aid of tissue expanders. However, fat doesn’t always “take” to its new location in a predictable manner, and fat transfer is not practical as a sole breast reconstruction method for most patients.

If the Mat(t)issue comes into fruition, it could overcome these barriers and provide another safe, cost-effective option for patients who do not want artificial implants or who are not good candidates for tissue flap reconstruction.

As exciting as the prospect of using 3D printing to make a breast implant sounds, what is most encouraging about this innovation to me as a plastic surgeon is that it shows that scientists are actively pursuing ways to improve reconstruction options for breast cancer survivors.

Discuss your breast reconstruction options with an experienced Richmond plastic surgeon

The good news is that patients facing breast reconstruction today have many options that can achieve remarkably natural results and have an excellent safety profile when performed by an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon. If you are in need of a Richmond breast reconstruction surgeon, I encourage you to contact me to schedule a personal consultation. Breast reconstruction is one of my surgical specialties, and I can offer helpful guidance as you consider your options.