Breast cancer: How to achieve life-changing reconstruction using your own fat

Breast cancer: How to achieve life-changing reconstruction using your own fat

Breast cancer is an issue that affects many women and is often a devastating diagnosis with far-reaching consequences. Barbara Sprinzl also had to experience this when she mastered a triple challenge at the Munich Klinik Bogenhausen: the diagnosis, the chemotherapy and the reconstruction of her breast. The journey was not easy, but it gives hope to many affected women and shows how comprehensive modern medicine has become. The Usinger Anzeiger reports on how Barbara began her journey and what steps were necessary to get her life back.

In the summer of 2024, Barbara was diagnosed with a swollen and inflamed right breast, which was diagnosed as a malignant cancer. After an ultrasound and biopsy, she started chemotherapy while also managing her work commitments. The changed life after the diagnosis demanded a lot of strength from her, but she was advised by the doctors to remove the breast in order to avoid recurring tumors.

The Reconstruction: A New Look at the Body

In November 2024, Barbara Sprinzl was approached by Dr. Lisanne Grünherz underwent surgery to reconstruct her breast using her own fat from the abdominal area. This method is considered the gold standard when it comes to breast cancer reconstruction. Autologous tissue has many advantages over other procedures, such as implants. The Usinger Anzeiger explains that the decision on the type of reconstruction is made individually and can even be carried out in an operation parallel to the tumor removal.

However, after surgery, Barbara developed lymphedema in her right arm, a common complication after lymph node removal. To relieve the swelling, she wears a support glove and receives regular lymphatic drainage. Another operation to transplant a lymph node is imminent to improve lymph flow. Health expert Prof. Christoph Scholz points out that modern treatment of breast cancer has made significant progress, especially in terms of personalized patient care and analysis of tumors.

Facts about breast cancer in Germany

Breast cancer remains the main issue for many women in Germany. Around 70,000 to 74,500 women are diagnosed with the disease every year - making the disease the most common type of cancer in females. In one lifetime, one in eight women faces this harsh reality. The breast cancer website lists further statistical data: On average, the age of onset is 63 years, but younger women are also increasingly affected. The risk is greatly increased in women with certain genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2, which can also affect the course of the disease.

At first glance, the diagnosis of breast cancer is shocking, but as Barbara Sprinzl's story shows, there are many options for treatment and reconstruction. What is particularly important is that those affected are well informed and can choose the therapy that suits their individual needs. The road to health can be long, but with the right team and modern procedures, it is entirely possible.