Fig. 3

Consecutive changes in fat necrosis after breast reconstruction in ultrasonography. a Initially, fat necrosis was detected after 6 months from surgery as a mass of around 4 cm with an indistinct margin in the mid-outer portion of the right breast. Needle biopsy was performed, and fat necrosis was confirmed pathologically. b After 1 year from the detection of fat necrosis, the volume of the necrotic mass was decreased. And calcification appeared at the center of the fat necrosis area (arrowhead). c After 2 year from the occurrence of fat necrosis, the mass was shrunk further. d Although the mass became much smaller over time, calcification (arrowhead) remained at the fat necrosis area