Australian scientists plan to regrow breasts after cancer

"We have tested it in several animal models so we have done enough testing preclinical to be confident now to take the step with human trials," said Dr Phillip Marzella, COO at the Melbourne-based Bernard O'Brien Institute of Microsurgery, which pioneered the procedure.

The regenerative procedure could offer women an alternative to traditional breast reconstruction and implants following a mastectomy, Marzella said, adding the procedure could also be used to help restore other damaged body parts.