4Tissue raises €7M to test resorbable breast implant in humans

What's the deal? Ghent-based biotech 4TissueDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → has raised €7 million ($7.8 million) to begin first-in-human testing of a breast implant designed to break down inside the body. The company was co-founded by surgeon Phillip Blondeel.

What's the endgame? 4Tissue is developing an injectable approach that combines a hydrogel scaffold with cells to help a patient's own tissue grow. Once that tissue takes hold, the scaffold is meant to dissolve — leaving natural tissue rather than a permanent implant.

Why now? The raise moves the concept from the lab toward clinical evaluation, with human testing marking the next milestone. The company positions the product as an alternative to permanent implants and more extensive flap surgery for breast reconstruction.

What could go wrong? First-in-human testing is early. The key test is whether trials show safe, durable reconstruction — and whether the approach can clear a lengthy regulatory process before reaching patients.

The signal: 4Tissue joins a small but growing field chasing resorbable alternatives in breast reconstruction. French company Lattice Medical has taken its resorbable MATTISSE scaffold into clinical studies, with European marketing planned after regulatory review. The shared aim is to reduce reliance on permanent implants — a shift with real potential, but not yet a proven option for patients.

Read more: tijd.be

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