Follow up question to fat necrosis

I had a breast reduction in 2006. Since then I have had numerous problems with fat necrosis. In July of 2008 I had both a mammogram and ultrsound which showed numerous areas of fat necrosis but there were two areas at the 4-5 oclock position which were of concern. In December of 2008 I had repeat films which showed the necrosis had increased in size by at least 1cm both areas. Any thoughts or comments regarding this issue.  Also what casues fat necrosis and is there any way to avoid this type of problem.  Is fat necrosis painful and if I have had theses areas since 2006 any chance they will resolve without any intervention.  Thanks very much.  

[Howard Rosenberg, MD]

Fat necrosis is the result of diminished blood supply to areas of fat as a result of extensive breast reduction surgery.  The necrotic fat developes into an area of firm fibrotic tissue.  It is not danagerous and usually is not painful.  Treatment ranges from doing nothing to excision if the firm area is bothersome.