There may eventually be another way to reconstruct the breast without a permanent implant. That’s the idea behind a new technology still in its early stages. Colorado-based biotech company GenesisTissue is developing something called Regenerative Breast Tissue (RBT), a personalized, 3D-printed structure designed to support fat transfer and encourage the body’s own tissue to grow. Unlike a traditional silicone implant, which stays in place, this temporary framework is designed to gradually dissolve as new tissue takes its place.
Ahead, how the technology works and when it could reach patients.
How does 3D-printed breast tissue work?
Think of it as a temporary support system for growing tissue. The biodegradable structure is customized to a patient’s anatomy and designed to hold transferred fat in place while supporting tissue growth. As the material breaks down, the goal is for the patient’s own tissue to remain, creating breast volume without a permanent synthetic implant.
The technology is initially being developed for women undergoing breast reconstruction after cancer surgery, including lumpectomies and mastectomies. “We believe women deserve a better option,” Katie Weimer, CEO and cofounder of GenesisTissue, told Tech Briefs. Down the line, the company hopes it could also have applications in cosmetic breast augmentation.
When will 3D-printed breast reconstruction be available?
Not anytime soon. The technology is still in preclinical development, meaning it has not yet been proven safe or effective in human clinical trials. Early laboratory and preclinical testing has shown encouraging results for material breakdown, compatibility with living tissue and tissue growth, but human studies and FDA review are still ahead.
GenesisTissue isn’t the only company exploring this approach. Other companies and researchers are also developing 3D-printed implants designed to support natural tissue regeneration, although these technologies remain investigational.
For now, this is an early look at where breast reconstruction may be headed. Rather than simply replacing lost volume with an implant, the next generation of reconstructive technology could focus on helping the body rebuild it.
