Researchers in Gothenburg are preparing to launch the first human trials of a pioneering breast-reconstruction technique that uses 3D-bioprinted fat tissue made from a patient’s own cells, aiming to offer a safer, more personalized alternative for women recovering from breast cancer.
The project is led by Karin Säljö, associate professor of plastic surgery at the Institute of Clinical Sciences and senior consultant at Sahlgrenska University Hospital, in collaboration with Chalmers University of Technology. After nearly a decade of laboratory and animal research, the technology is now moving into its first clinical phase.
“The overall goal is to bring 3D-bioprinted autologous tissue from the lab bench into clinical practice,” Säljö said. “Conventional methods, such as silicone implants or transferring tissue from the abdomen, have limitations in terms of outcomes and often involve discomfort.”
A new way to rebuild breast tissue
The technique is based on fat cells harvested through liposuction, which are then processed and used as bio-ink for 3D printing. Researchers have found that this fat tissue retains microscopic structures that allow it to integrate with surrounding tissue and form new blood vessels, a critical factor for long-term survival after transplantation.
This approach could overcome one of the main drawbacks of traditional fat grafting, in which a significant portion of injected fat is often absorbed by the body. With 3D bioprinting, surgeons can create stable tissue constructs with precise shapes and volumes, improving both predictability and durability of reconstruction.
Less invasive, more accessible
A key advantage of the new method is that it could replace major tissue-transfer surgeries with a simpler liposuction procedure. That would significantly reduce surgical trauma and recovery time, potentially making autologous breast reconstruction available to more women who currently avoid it or instead choose implants.
A pilot study is scheduled to begin this spring. Small 3D-printed fat constructs will be implanted under the skin of participants’ upper arms, allowing researchers to monitor how well the tissue maintains its shape, volume and biological function over time.
“We are using 3D printing to tailor surgery, and we have now finally received approval to move forward with a first-in-human study after extensive review by the relevant authorities in the EU and Sweden,” Säljö said.
Funding and future uses
The project has been supported by a SEK 1.3 million grant from the IngaBritt and Arne Lundberg Research Foundation. The funding enabled the purchase of a 3D bioprinter suitable for operating-room use, as well as advanced measurement equipment to track tissue changes before and after implantation.
Beyond breast reconstruction, the researchers believe the technology could eventually be applied to other forms of soft-tissue repair following cancer treatment or traumatic injury. If successful, it could lead to shorter operations, faster recovery and reduced time away from work, offering broad benefits for patients and healthcare systems alike.
