A new periareolar mammaplasty: the "round block" technique

Daisy Technique for Periareolar Closure in Breast Surgery

Periareolar mastopexy often results in the unacceptable scar, widened and distorted areola. Still, many patients' object vertical and horizontal scars pushing the surgeon to limit the procedure to periareolar scar only. We present a technique for periareolar closure in breast surgery which in our hands proved its efficacy primarily for the mastopexy-augmentation patients.Level of Evidence V This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

[Gender-Affirming Top Surgery for Gender Incongruence/Dysphoria: A Literature Review and Alignment with the New German S2k Guidelines on Mastectomy and Breast Augmentation]

"Top surgery", which refers to gender-affirming chest procedures, is one of the most common surgeries for individuals with gender incongruence (GI). These surgeries include breast augmentation or mastectomy and aim to align the physical appearance with gender identity. This review is based on the newly published German S2k guideline "Surgical Measures for Gender Incongruence" and offers a comprehensive overview of current breast surgery techniques and relevant literature.A literature analysis was conducted based on data from PubMed from 1973 to July 2024. The analysis included 122 studies on gender-affirming chest surgeries for individuals with GI. The core statements were extracted and summarized.Gender-affirming chest surgeries, including both breast augmentation and mastectomy, generally lead to significant improvements in the well-being of individuals. Breast augmentations often involve silicone implants or autologous fat grafting. Mastectomies for chest flattening aim to create a smooth, masculine-contoured or neutral chest while preserving nipple sensation. The choice of surgical technique largely depends on breast size, the degree of ptosis, and skin elasticity. Patient satisfaction with the surgical outcomes is consistently high, underscoring the importance of these procedures.This review provides a comprehensive overview of current surgical techniques for chest surgeries in individuals with gender incongruence. With the growing number of transgender and non-binary patients, clear surgical guidelines are increasingly important to meet the high demands and address complex anatomical challenges. The new German S2k guideline, developed by German experts from various participating disciplines, supports this need. The high patient satisfaction with surgical outcomes underscores the significance of these procedures for improving quality of life.

A Periareolar Approach for Skin Cancer Adjacent Nipple-Areolar Complex

The periareolar approach has been successfully used in our cosmetic patients, including cases of mastopexy, breast reduction, and severe gynecomastia surgery, demonstrating its efficacy in achieving favorable cosmetic outcomes. However, so far in the English literature, there is no report of using this technique for the reconstruction of skin cancer adjacent to the nipple-areolar complex. A 58-year-old woman presented with basal cell carcinoma on the skin of her right breast, adjacent to the areola. The tumor, measuring 4 × 4 cm, was surgically excised with clear margins. Reconstruction was performed using a periareolar approach, using a purse-string suture technique reinforced with subcutaneous buried sutures to minimize tension instead of using a skin graft or local flap for reconstruction. This method aimed to achieve minimal external scarring by camouflaging the scar at the junction between the chest skin and the nipple-areolar complex.

J-Scar Mammaplasty: A Personal Approach

BACKGROUND

With the increasing demand for aesthetic breast procedures, achieving optimal results with minimal scarring is paramount. Mastopexy and breast reduction aim to reshape the breast, delivering harmonious and lasting outcomes while minimizing visible scars and complications. We introduce our personal approach using a "J"-shaped scar mammaplasty designed to enhance aesthetic results and patient satisfaction.

METHODS

Between January 2019 and December 2023, we applied this technique to 116 patients undergoing mastopexy and 34 patients undergoing breast reduction, with tissue reductions of up to 800 grams. The procedure involves precise pre-operative markings, the use of a round block suture to manage excess skin and reduce scar length, and the creation of a robust central dermal pillar to ensure sustained breast support and projection.

RESULTS

No major complications or areolar necrosis were observed. Seven cases of wound dehiscence occurred at the "J" curve, resolved with conservative dressings: two required minor scar revisions under local anesthesia. No instances of secondary ptosis or high riding areola were noted. Areolar sensitivity was preserved in most patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The "J"-scar technique, enhanced with round block sutures, effectively reduces vertical scar length and prevents pseudoptosis, extending its applicability to cases with significant breast ptosis. Advantages include improved breast projection and contouring, shorter scars, and a lower incidence of complications compared to traditional methods. This innovative technique offers an effective option in aesthetic breast surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Extended Superior Pedicle Autoaugmentation (ESPA) Mastopexy: A Review of 20 Consecutive Patients

BACKGROUND

Ptotic breast deformity arises from decreased breast tissue volume and skin laxity, causing descent of breast tissue due to gravity. Mastopexy lifts and reshapes the breast and can be potentially associated with breast implants in case of need of volume increase. However, this option is not accepted by all the patients. The extended autoaugmentation mastopexy (ESPA) incorporates an abdominal flap to increase breast volume without implants, reducing surgical time and offering stable long-term outcomes.

OBJECTIVES

The authors propose modifying the superior pedicle vertical mammaplasty to include glandular tissue transposition and an abdominal flap. This aims to restore central mound projection, narrow the lower breast base, and raise the inframammary fold.

METHOD

Twenty patients underwent superior pedicle extended autoaugmentation (ESPA) mammaplasty from 2020 to 2024. Patients, aged 25 to 45, with wide, low-lying breasts lacking central projection, were selected. Breast tissue was elevated on a superior dermal pedicle extended inferiorly to an abdominal flap and transposed into a prepectoral pocket. The inframammary fold was raised, and the dead space is closed using internal and external temporary sutures.

RESULTS

Patients tolerated well the procedure, with one developing a seroma, successfully managed. All 20 patients expressed high satisfaction with postoperative breast shape and size, with no desire for subsequent augmentation.

CONCLUSIONS

The technique extends the superior pedicle to include abdominal tissue, restoring central mound projection and modifying the inframammary fold. It reliably recreates a more youthful breast shape in suitable patients without the need for implants.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE V

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Initial Outcomes of a Novel Technique of Nipple Sparing Mastectomy Without Reconstruction

Introduction: Nipple sparing mastectomy is oncologically safe and has a good cosmetic outcome. However, nipple sparing mastectomy was conventionally performed with reconstruction. Minimal scar mastectomy (MSM) is a novel technique which could allow women, with non-ptotic breasts, who do not want reconstruction, to conserve their nipple areolar complex (NAC) and avoid the transverse scar associated with modified radical mastectomy. This is the first study on the outcomes of MSM. Methods: MSM complications and their risk factors, recurrence rates and cosmetic outcomes were assessed. As MSM is a modification of the round block technique, the mean ring distance (MRD), which is the average of the distance between the inner and outer ring circumferentially, was assessed, too. Results: A total of 28 patients (29 breasts) were analysed. There was no recurrence after a mean/median follow-up of 40.3/41 months (4-80 months). In the initial recruitment of 17 patients (18 breasts), NAC necrosis occurred in eight cases (three complete, five partial). Prediabetes (p = 0.0128) and MRD ≥1.5 cm (p = 0.0440) were statistically significant for NAC necrosis. Of the available data, 11/15 (73.3%) rated the cosmetic outcome as excellent/good, with poorer cosmetic outcome correlated with NAC necrosis (p = 0.006). Avoiding the above risk factors in the next 11 patients, NAC necrosis decreased to 1/11 (9.0%) with mild ischaemia. Cosmetic outcome was rated as excellent/good in 90.9%. Conclusions: MSM is oncologically safe and is best performed in patients with no risk factors for NAC necrosis, including prediabetes and MRD < 1.5 cm. These pilot results will refine the selection criteria of patients for MSM.

Structural Mastopexy: Volume Displacement in Breast Reshaping

BACKGROUND

Although in breast reshaping, the restoration of a suitable mammary cone is the main goal of the procedure, long-lasting upper pole fullness preservation is the most common weak point of all mastopexy. Mastopexy is a challenging procedure, and a surgical procedure to create desirable long-lasting results has not been well standardized. In this paper, the authors report their experiences in structural mastopexy procedures, describing three different adipo-glandular flaps, each repositioned as auto-prosthesis to reshape upper pole contour in patients affected by a severe degree of breast ptosis.

METHODS

A 6-year retrospective iconographic-chart and review was performed on 89 patients undergoing mastopexy between January 2016 and December 2021. Surgical candidates reported grades 2 and 3 of ptosis following Regnault classification. Minimum follow-up was 24 months. Pre- and postoperative data for all patients were collected in the same standard conditions.

RESULTS

89 patients affected with bilateral breast ptosis were included in the study, for a total of 178 breasts. Patients' mean age at the time of surgery was 40.45 years, ranging between 28 and 59 years. Follow-up ranged between 2 and 6 years with an average of 47.13 months. Out of 89 patients, 50 underwent general anesthesia, and the remaining 39 underwent local anesthesia. Among the 178 treated breasts, 10 (17.8%) experienced minor complications: No major complications were reported.

CONCLUSION

Autologous tissue displacement, collecting parenchyma wherever surplus can be recruited, permits the transfer of extra tissue to the lack of volume, recontouring satisfactory breast shape and ensuring long-lasting results.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE V

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Comparative Outcome Study of Gynecomastia Surgery and Gender-Affirming Mastectomy With 100% Nipple Preservation

BACKGROUND

Gynecomastia and gender-affirming top surgery share similarities in objectives. Traditionally, a subcutaneous mastectomy using a semicircular incision has been recommended for most gynecomastia patients. In recent years, mastectomies and nipple grafting have become the most popular treatment for gender-affirming top surgery. Nipple grafting is very debilitating to this unique body part, which also provides erogenous sensation. This study was undertaken to compare methods, complications, and outcomes using an approach that preserves nipples in 100% of patients.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted, comparing all gynecomastia patients and gender-affirming top surgery patients treated by the author over the period 2016-2024. Most (92%) gynecomastia patients were treated with liposuction in combination with a semicircular incision and subcutaneous mastectomy. Twelve top surgery patients (71%) were also treated with this method. Two gynecomastia patients and 5 top surgery patients with pendulous breasts underwent vertical mammaplasties incorporating a medial pedicle. A telephone survey was also administered.

RESULTS

Fifty-three patients were evaluated, including 36 gynecomastia patients and 17 top surgery patients. The complication rate was 21%. Three patients (6%) developed hematomas. Five patients (9%) underwent revisions. No patient experienced complications of the nipple/areola complex. All surveyed patients reported that nipple preservation was important. Two patients (11%) reported reduced nipple sensation after surgery. No patient reported scar dissatisfaction. Fifteen patients (83%) were comfortable exposing their chest after surgery, compared with 1 patient (6%) before surgery.

DISCUSSION

Today, a major disparity exists in treatment recommendations, with almost all gynecomastia patients being offered nipple-preserving methods and the majority of top surgery patients undergoing mastectomies with nipple grafting, or even without grafting. In view of the importance of nipple sensation, and the success of an alternative approach, surgical priorities should be realigned to preserve nipple/areola complexes.

CONCLUSIONS

Nipple preservation is offered to all patients. Subcutaneous mastectomies are often sufficient, and limit scarring. Vertical mammaplasties with a medial pedicle are effective in patients with pendulous breasts. Liposuction is offered as a second-stage procedure, although many patients are satisfied with some residual breast fullness. The need for secondary surgery of the nipple/areola complex and scar revisions is minimized.

Oncoplastic Surgery: Where Are We Now?

In the 1970s, we learned breast conservation therapy (BCT) was not inferior to mastectomy. Early BCT methods could result in deformities that were unacceptable to patients and to their surgeons. By the 1990s, surgeons began to apply the principles of plastic surgery to improve outcomes. The term oncoplastic surgery was first described in the 1990s by Werner Audretsch. We offer a review of principles, techniques, current controversies, and challenges in broadening the utilization of OPS.

Reduction Mammoplasties: Risk Factors and Early Complications-About 1442 Cases

BACKGROUND

Breast reduction surgery is a widely performed plastic surgery procedure. The incidence of such complications has been steadily decreasing in recent years but is still nonetheless 5.6%. The primary aim of this study was to analyze the incidence of the main postoperative complications of breast reduction surgery. In addition, we identified cause-and-effect links between complications and characteristics of the patients, such as smoking, age, weight resection, BMI, and wound drainage.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study was performed on a population of 1442 women who underwent breast reduction surgery between January 2016 and October 2022 in the plastic surgery unit at Saint-Louis Hospital, Paris, France. At the follow-up examination, we evaluated the patients for complications.

RESULTS

The average resection weight was 1297.7 g in a population for which the average BMI was 28.9. We found 19.9% rate of total complications, of which 3.5% were major complications. We found that only the resection weight was a risk factor for complications.

DISCUSSION

The main strength of our study is the size of our sample. The large number of patients allowed us to conduct numerous analyses and obtain significant results despite the rarity of certain events. This large cohort was also responsible for the high statistical power of our results.

CONCLUSION

The risk of developing a postoperative infection was 7.5% for resections of less than 2.4 kg, increasing to 13.9 % when greater than that. Thus, the administration of prophylactic antibiotic therapy to affected women to reduce the risk of infection is a distinct consideration. For the other factors, while none of them appeared to promote the occurrence of adverse events and, therefore, do not formally contraindicate breast reduction surgery, some preventive measures still strike us as being relevant, such as blade drainage, weight loss, diabetes control, and smoking cessation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

New Concepts in Circumareolar Mastopexy: The "Star Interlocking Suture"-A Case Series

The circumareolar approach is one of the most popular and versatile in breast surgeries. Nevertheless, this approach usually implies a closure under tension which could lead to areolar distortion, scar widening and hypertrophic scarring. To prevent these complications, different surgical adjustments to this technique have been proposed, such as the Hammond's "Interlocking Gore-Tex suture." Here, we propose a modification of the Hammond interlocking suture, the "Star Interlocking Suture." Between 2019 and 2023, the "Star Interlocking Suture" was used in 19 patients undergoing breast surgery with circumareolar approach. 3-0 Ethibond suture (Ethibond Excel; Ethicon, US LLC) was used for suturing. All 19 patients showed good results in terms of areolar scar appearance and diameter stability during a mean follow-up period of 12 months. No infections, skin fistulas or suture extrusion were observed. All patients were satisfied with the appearance of their areola and the suture material, green colored, was not visible. Only one patient did report palpability of the suture's knot.Level of Evidence V This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Tailor-Made Mastopexy Plus Implant, A Safe Journey Toward Breast Reshaping and Augmentation

BACKGROUND

Augmentation/mastopexy represents one of the most complex procedures in the setting of cosmetic surgery, and there is still an ongoing debate about the most suitable approach to undertake to avoid major complications and deliver the desired result. The present study aims to offer a further contribute to the topic by presenting our personal experience with an implant-guided tailor-made mastopexy technique to manage moderate breast ptosis and hypotrophy.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of our database was carried out, and a total of 194 women who underwent a tailor-made resection pattern mastopexy plus implant from November 2016 to December 2021 were enrolled. All patients included in the study presented breast hypoplasia and ptosis classified as Regnault grade II. At the first-year follow-up visit, patients received an anonymous written questionnaire that addressed their self-perception of cosmetic results and overall satisfaction.

RESULTS

The technique presented in the study showed a favorable safety profile with a total complication rate accounting for an 8.2% and an overall reoperation rate as low as 4.6%. Major concerns including wound dehiscence, implant exposure, and nipple necrosis are not reported. Patients' self-reported outcomes revealed high satisfaction rates and stable results in the long-term follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The described approach ensures proper reshaping together with the desired increased breast volume minimizing the chance of implant exposure due to wound dehiscence or any sort of tissue necrosis from devascularized skin edges. The surgical procedure described herein is safe and reliable.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Modified peri-areolar mastopexy and fat grafting in complex breast ptosis: A randomized open-label controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Complex breast ptosis may be caused by moderate to severe degrees of skin and glandular sagging associated with breast and nipple-areola complex (NAC) asymmetries and deformities. The use of traditional peri-areolar mastopexy (t-PM) with or without implants is limited only to mild or moderate breast ptosis.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to report the safety and efficacy of the modified peri-areolar mastopexy (m-PM) characterized by a vertical shift of the classical pattern with implants and fat grafting (FG) in complex breast ptosis and to evaluate the influence of breast and NAC asymmetries, breast, and chest deformities on aesthetics outcomes.

METHODS

An open-label randomized controlled trial was performed. Forty women (study group - SG) affected by breast ptosis (moderate and severe), asymmetries, and deformities were treated with m-PM, implants, and FG, and their outcomes were compared with those in a control group (CG) (n = 35) treated with t-PM and implants. Aesthetic outcomes were evaluated using the patient's satisfaction grade, physician's assessment score, and visual Analog Scale (VAS).

RESULTS

Overall, 75% (n = 30) of SG patients reported excellent results in terms of breast lift, shape, volume, NAC position, and scar quality after 12 months, whereas the CG reported the same outcomes in 60% (n = 21) of the cases. SG patients showed a vertical NAC shift and a satisfaction degree higher than that in the CG (p < 0.001 vs. CG).

CONCLUSIONS

The m-PM with implants and FG was found to be safe and effective in this trial.

Technical Refinements for Reducing Reoperations in Single-Stage Augmentation Mastopexy: A Retrospective Matched Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

The goals of mastopexy differ significantly from those of augmentation mammoplasty. Mastopexy is designed to lift and reshape the breasts, while augmentation mammoplasty is designed to increase the volume of the breasts. This conflict causes that one-stage augmentation mastopexies showed a revision rate from 8.7 to 23.2%. The aim of our study is to present some technical refinements for reducing the risk of implant exposure and reoperation.

METHODS

We designed a retrospective matched cohort study, including 216 consecutive patients, undergone augmentation mastopexy between January 2013 and December 2022. We divided them in two groups: Group A undergone an inverted-T superomedial pedicled augmentation mastopexy and Group B undergone our inverted-T modified augmentation mastopexy. The groups were matched for clinical and surgical variables, with the surgical technique the only difference between the two.

RESULTS

Complications were registered in ten patients (9.3%) in Group A (two wound breakdowns at T with implant exposure and eight wound dehiscences), six of which required surgical revision. In contrast, only three patients (2.8%) in Group B reported a complication, which was wound dehiscence without implant exposure in all cases. None of the dehiscence required surgical revision. The difference between complication and revision rates was statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Separating the implant and the mastopexy dissection planes reduces the implant exposure and the reoperation rate in one-stage augmentation mastopexy.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors https://link.springer.com/journal/00266 .

Breast Reconstruction: The Oncoplastic Approach

Breast reconstruction surgery is continualladvancing, significantly enhancing patient well-being. Current surgical techniques prioritize minimizing donor site morbidity while achieving a more natural breast appearance. Increasing patient preferences for avoiding prosthetic materials in reconstruction, along with advancements in oncological safety and heightened aesthetic expectations, are driving the exploration and development of innovative approaches. Today's reconstructive options range from straightforward oncoplastic glandular remodeling to intricate microsurgical procedures. This narrative review, titled "Breast reconstruction: the oncoplastic approach," provides a comprehensive overview of contemporary trends in breast-conserving treatment. It evaluates the indications for these techniques and offers guidance to plastic surgeons in crafting personalized treatment plans. This approach presents a valuable single-stage alternative or adjunct to traditional prosthetic or microsurgical reconstruction methods.

Publication Trends in Aesthetic Breast Surgery: A Bibliometric Analysis

Background

Aesthetic breast surgery (ABS) encompasses breast augmentation, breast reduction, mastopexy, and mastopexy augmentation. This topic has seldom been assessed as a bibliometric study. This analysis aims to address this gap and identify trends in ABS literature to guide future research areas. Bibliometrics, the quantitative analysis of publications, particularly scholarly literature, offers valuable insights into research trends and impact.

Objectives

This analysis aims to address this gap and identify trends in ABS literature to guide future research areas.

Methods

The 100 most-cited publications in ABS were identified on Web of Science (Clarivate Analytics, Philadelphia, PA), across all available journal years (from 1953 to 2024). Study details, including the citation count, main content focus, and outcome measures, were extracted and tabulated from each publication. The Oxford Centre for Evidence Based Medicine and levels of evidence (LOE) of each study were assessed.

Results

The 100 most-cited publications in ABS were cited by a total of 11,522 publications. Citations per publication ranged from 46 to 1211 (mean 115.2 ± 135.7), with the highest-cited study being the Pusic BREAST-Q paper (n = 1211). A majority of publications were LOE 4 (n = 30), representative of the large number of case series. The number of publications for LOE 5, 3, 2, and 1 was 12, 28, 21, and 9, respectively. The main content focus was "outcomes" in 52 publications, followed by "nonoperative management" (n = 12) and "surgical technique" (n = 12). Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were used in 29 publications, and 53 publications reported aesthetic outcome measures.

Conclusions

This analysis highlights that research methodologies in ABS studies should be improved. This necessary improvement would be facilitated by vigorous, high-quality research, and the implementation of validated ABS-specific PROMs enhancing patient satisfaction, particularly in aesthetic procedures, such as BREAST-Q.

Level of Evidence 4

Oncoplastic Breast Conservation for Central Tumors: Definition, Classification, and the Analysis of Single Institution Experience

Background

Tumors in the central part of the breast are usually considered more aggressive and technically difficult, which limits breast conservation. The definition of central tumors from a surgical point of view, classification of the techniques for partial breast reconstruction, and conceptual algorithm of choice based on tumor and breast characteristics are proposed, along with the estimation of surgical and oncological safety.

Methods

This is a retrospective analysis of the single-institution experience, with a focus on the decision-making process for choosing the oncoplastic breast-conserving surgery technique. To evaluate the safety of breast conservation for central tumors, a comparative analysis of early surgical complications and oncological long-term results of treatment in patients with central breast tumor location and other breast tumor locations was performed.

Results

A total of 940 lumpectomies were performed in 926 patients during 15 years. The central breast tumor location group included 128 patients with 130 lumpectomies (13.8%), and the other breast tumor locations group included 798 patients with 810 lumpectomies (86.2%). We did not find any significant differences in the rate of early surgical complications and involved margins, local and systemic recurrence rates, time to progression, or overall survival between the groups.

Conclusions

Oncoplastic breast-conserving surgery is a safe procedure for the treatment of central tumors. In our opinion, the proposed classification of partial breast reconstruction techniques and an algorithm of their choice allow for effective restoration of the breast shape and volume according to the parameters of the tumor, breast, surgeon, and patient preferences.

A Case Series of Round Block Techniques for Large, Recurrent, and Multicentric Benign Breast Diseases

Benign breast diseases are a common presentation in the breast clinic outpatient department. These diseases, including giant fibroadenoma, multiple fibroadenoma in different quadrants, and large or recurrent phyllodes tumors, pose challenges in surgical management. We present a case series of 16 patients aged 19 to 63 years (average age, 41.5 years) who presented with breast lumps and underwent surgery using the round block technique for benign breast diseases at our institute between November 2019 and March 2024. Prior to surgery, all patients had clinical, radiological, and pathological assessments. Age, duration of lump, and detailed menstrual, obstetric, and family history of each patient were recorded. Eight (50%) of the patients had phyllodes tumor, four (31.25%) had fibroadenoma, three (18.75%) had both fibroadenoma and phyllodes tumor, and one (6.25%) had adenolipoma. The average size of tumors was 7.5 cm in our study. During postsurgical follow-up, none of the patients had nipple areola necrosis, and they reported that nipple sensation was acceptable. A mastectomy was avoided in all circumstances. Good cosmetic outcomes and clear margin status are achievable using the round block technique.

Superior Pedicle Inverted T-reduction Mammaplasty with Short Horizontal Scar

Background

Superior pedicle breast reduction is a very popular technique among plastic surgeons. This technique has had many variations looking for fewer complications and better long-lasting results. The aim of this article is to present a novel technique of breast reduction, making variations in the design of the periareolar incision, using a superior pedicle with a constant vertical incision of 5 cm and a shortened horizontal incision.

Methods

The superior pedicle inverted T-mammoplasty with a shortened horizontal scar technique was performed in 1200 patients who underwent surgery between 2010 and 2023; follow-up examination was carried out for an average of 1 year (3 months to 3 years). A patient satisfaction survey was conducted.

Results

Patient satisfaction rate was 99%. There were no cases of total necrosis of the areola-nipple complex, 2.7% of the patients presented partial necrosis of the areola-nipple complex, 1.4% of the patients presented local infection, 1.7% presented dehiscence at some point of the vertical or horizontal suture, 4% of the patients presented a widened scar, 8% of the patients presented alteration in the sensibility of the areola-nipple complex, and 0.6% of the patients presented hematoma. With this technique, a rise of the areola-nipple complex of up to 22cm was achieved.

Conclusions

The superior pedicle inverted T-mammaplasty with shortened horizontal scar technique showed a lower number of surgical complications compared with other techniques previously used for breast reduction, even when applied in gigantomasty. It provides lasting results and a high rate of patient satisfaction.

Safe Augmentation Mastopexy: Review of 500 Consecutive Cases Using a Vertical Approach and Muscular Sling

Background

Augmentation mastopexy remains a challenging surgery and has been frequently associated with suboptimal outcomes and remarkable reoperation rates, and one of the greatest challenges in mastopexy surgery is areolar lift, especially when implants are simultaneously used. Through the authors' experience, this study is aimed to show a modification of the vertical approach with greater safety of the areolar pedicle.

Methods

The study included all patients who underwent augmentation mastopexy surgery performed by the authors between 2019 and 2022, whether primary or nonprimary, and performed a retrospective chart review of all patients who underwent this procedure.

Results

The length of the areolar lift ranged from 0 cm to 14 cm. Among the 17.4% of nonprimary mastopexies, the longest areolar lift was 11 cm. No cases of nipple-areola complex ischemia/necrosis were observed. With this technique, there were 6.2% complications (n = 31), none of which were considered serious.

Conclusions

This surgical sequence is a safe option for areolar lift in augmentation mastopexy. The vertical approach also has the advantage of producing considerably shorter horizontal scars. It is also reproducible, keeping the implant stable, which results in consistent long-term results.

[Thoracic reassignment surgeries]

Thoracic reassignment surgeries are the most common gender reassignment surgeries. They represent the first and sometimes the only step in the reassignment process for transgender patients. Surgical techniques for thoracic reassignment derive from those used for the cisgender population and are accessible to plastic surgeons who do not usually treat transgender patients. On the other hand, there are some anatomical differences between men and women that they should understand, for instance, the positioning of the neo-NAC, the neo-inframammary fold and the scars. It is therefore important to understand these anatomical differences in order to optimize the cosmetic results of these surgeries so that they correspond to the expectations of these patients. In addition, the plastic surgeon will also have to be careful to adapt his approach to the relational level, with these patients, such as avoiding misgendering or using the "dead name". Finally, even if these operations are theoretically covered at 100% by the French health insurance, a request for prior agreement may be required in certain cases.

An Algorithm for Correction of Mild Tuberous Breast Deformity in Augmentation Mammaplasty: Camouflage or Correct?

BACKGROUND

Tuberous breast deformity (TBD) is a common abnormality, particularly in patients presenting for breast augmentation. Failure to correct each regional abnormality, including the inframammary fold, lower pole deficiency, nipple-areola complex widening or herniation, or any degree of ptosis, will result in exaggeration of the deformity and a poor aesthetic outcome.

OBJECTIVES

To describe an algorithm, including novel techniques, to address each region of mild TBD in patients undergoing breast augmentation.

METHODS

This is a retrospective review and description of the senior author's (K.T.) techniques for correction of early-stage TBD from 2016 to 2021.

RESULTS

One hundred forty-two patients underwent a stepwise approach to correct milder TBD features when undergoing breast augmentation.

CONCLUSIONS

The authors propose a regional algorithm for management of TBD, to allow mostly single-stage correction, except in cases with marked ptosis, severe asymmetry, or marked macroareola.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4

Indocyanine green angiography in oncoplastic breast surgery, a prospective study

INTRODUCTION

The use of Indocyanine green angiography (ICG-A) in oncoplastic breast-conserving surgery (OBCS) has not yet been investigated. This prospective trial applied ICG-A in volume displacement and replacement OBCS to localize perforators and determine tissue supplied by the perforator. Furthermore, to investigate and correlate the intraoperative ICG-A to postoperative surgical site infection, skin necrosis, epidermolysis, and timely onset of adjuvant therapy.

METHODS

ICG-A was performed at three pre-set timepoints during surgery; after lumpectomy, upon dissection of possible perforators, and after wound closure. All patients were followed with clinical evaluations before surgery, 4 weeks, 4-6 months, and 12 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

Eleven patients were included: seven volume displacement and four volume replacement OBCS. ICG-A located the tissue supplied by the perforator and demonstrated sufficient perfusion in all cases. The ICG-A corresponded to the surgeons' clinical assessment. One patient developed a postoperative infection and seroma and was treated conservatively. No patients had postoperative necrosis, loss of reconstruction, or lymphedema of the arm. Edema of the breast occurred in four patients (36.4%). Scar assessments were significantly worse at 4-weeks and 4-6 months. The quality of life improved significantly during follow-up. Adjuvant treatment was administered timely in all cases.

CONCLUSION

ICG-A was feasible for OBCS in assessing intraoperative perfusion. Perfusion was sufficient in all patients and corresponded to the surgeon's clinical evaluation. No patients developed postoperative necrosis. Though edema of the breast occurred in 36.4%, a larger sample size is needed to investigate a possible correlation with ICG-A. Further studies, which includes patients requiring extensive tissue replacement challenging the borders of perfusion, are needed.

Periareolar Augmentation Mastopexy: Finding the Aesthetic Level of Breast Lifting

Background

Ptosis and volume atrophy of the breasts are common symptoms for various ages of women and may induce a considerable amount of stress in daily life. Periareolar augmentation mastopexy is an effective procedure for such conditions, and planning the new nipple position is very important.

Aim

To provide a simple, straightforward planning and walkthrough of this operation in a journey to find the ideal level of breast lifting for natural upper fullness.

Materials and methods

From January 2019 to December 2021, a total of 193 patients with volume deflation and ptosis of the breast received periareolar augmentation mastopexy in our institute. We retrospectively reviewed data on demographics, surgical procedures, outcomes, and complications.

Results

All operations were done with periareolar incisions, and the mean follow-up period was 29.48 ± 9.11 months. The Likert scale of outcome satisfaction scored 9.02 ± 0.61. Complications were minimal, and no symmastia or bottoming out occurred.

Conclusion

We present our basic strategies of periareolar augmentation mastopexy with a slight modification of the design. We believe that lifting the nipple to 3-4 cm above the inframammary fold (IMF) (making the top of the areola about 5-6 cm above the IMF) yields satisfactory aesthetic results.

Masculinizing chest wall gender-affirming surgery: Clinical outcomes of 73 subcutaneous mastectomies using the double-incision and semicircular incision techniques

Masculinizing chest wall gender-affirming surgery is an important element in the treatment of gender dysphoria. In this study, we report an institutional series of subcutaneous mastectomies and aim to identify the risk factors for major complications and revision surgery. A retrospective review of consecutive patients who underwent primary masculinizing top surgery via subcutaneous mastectomy at our institution through July 2021 was performed. Demographics and clinical characteristics were recorded as well as major complications and revision surgeries. Time-to-event analyses were performed to assess predictors of major complications and revision surgery. Seventy-three consecutive patients (146 breasts) were included. The mean age and the mean body mass index were 25.2 ± 7 years and 27.6 ± 6.5 kg/m2, respectively. The mean follow-up time was 7.9 ± 7.5 months. None of the patients had a history of chest wall radiation or breast surgery. Double incision with free nipple grafting was the most common technique (n = 130, 89%), followed by periareolar semicircular incision (n = 16, 11%). The mean resection weight was 524.7 ± 377.7 g. Concomitant suction-assisted lipectomy was performed in 48 (32.9%) cases. The rate of major complications was 2.7%. Revision surgery was performed in 8 (5.4%) cases. Concomitant liposuction was significantly associated with a lower rate of revision surgery (p = 0.026). Masculinizing chest wall gender-affirming surgery is a safe procedure with a low rate of revision. Concomitant liposuction significantly reduced the need of revision surgery. Future studies utilizing patient-reported outcomes are still required to better assess the success of this procedure.

Simultaneous Salvage Auto-augmentation: Contemporary Strategy for Management of the Breast Explantation Patient

The treatment of patients requiring explantation of breast prostheses is a complicated clinical issue, for which a consensus regarding the best way forward is still evolving. We believe that simultaneous salvage auto-augmentation (SSAA) is a viable option for the treatment of patients with explantation.

Methods

Sixteen cases (32 breasts) were reviewed over a 19-year period. The management of the capsule is based on intraoperative findings and not on preoperative evaluation because of the poor interobserver correlation of Baker grades.

Results

The mean age and clinical follow-up duration were 48 years (range: 41-65) and 9 months, respectively. We observed no complications, and only one patient underwent unilateral surgical revision of the periareolar scar, under local anaesthesia.

Conclusions

This study suggests that SSAA with or without autologous fat injection is a safe option for women undergoing explantation, with potential aesthetic and cost-saving benefits. In the current climate of public anxiety regarding breast implant illness, breast implant-associated atypical large cell lymphoma, and asymptomatic textured implants, it is anticipated that the number of patients desiring explantation and SSAA will continue to increase.

Single-incision for breast-conserving surgery through round block technique

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of using the single-incision round block technique in breast-conserving surgery with sentinel lymph node (SLN) retrieval for breast cancer without compromising oncological safety.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective observational case-control study was conducted from January 2017 to October 2021. The study population consisted of two groups. In both groups, breast-conserving surgery was carried out through the round-block technique. In group A, SLN retrieval was performed using the round-block incision (study group), while in group B, SLN retrieval was conducted through a second skin incision in the axilla (control group). The study was approved by the local ethics committee Zurich (BASEC-Nr. 2020-02857), and written informed consent was obtained from all participants.

RESULTS

Overall, 134 patients met the inclusion criteria, of whom 86 women underwent breast-conserving surgery and SLN retrieval using the single-incision approach (group A), and 48 women underwent conventional surgery, using two independent incisions for tumour resection and SLN retrieval (group B). The overall success rate in group A regarding SLN retrieval was 97.7%, whereas most tumours were located in the upper outer (47.7%) and upper inner quadrant (27.9%). Although the technique was equally successful in the other quadrants, the share of tumours in the lower outer, and the lower inner quadrant, and the retroareolar region was smaller, representing 17.4%, 3.5% and 3.5%, respectively. The median number of dissected lymph nodes was two, with a positivity rate of 24.4%. The occurrence of axillary neuralgia and axillary skin retraction was significantly higher in group B along with tendentially more axillary seroma formation. There were no significant differences regarding reintervention rates, in terms of complications, resection margins, locoregional recurrences, or deaths with a mean follow-up of 11 months.

CONCLUSIONS

The single-incision method through the round block technique is as safe and effective as the standard two-incision approach regarding nodal staging and resection margins, and seems to be applicable for tumours in all breast quadrants.

[Nipple-areola complex malformations]

THE NIPPLE-AREOLA COMPLEX, ALSO KNOWN AS THE NIPPLE-AREOLA PLATE, IS AN ESSENTIAL VISUAL FEATURE OF THE BREAST.THIS COMPLEX CAN BE AFFECTED BY VARIOUS MALFORMATIONS, BOTH CONGENITAL AND ACQUIRED. ALTHOUGH THESE ANOMALIES OFTEN HAVE A MODERATE IMPACT ON THE FUNCTIONALITY OF THIS COMPLEX, THE RESULTING PSYCHOLOGICAL CONSEQUENCES CAN BE SIGNIFICANT. THEIR TREATMENT IS MOST OFTEN SURGICAL AND MANY TECHNIQUES HAVE BEEN DESCRIBED OVER THE YEARS TO RECONSTRUCT AREOLA AND NIPPLE. REGARDLESS OF THE TECHNIQUE USED, THIS ONE AS TO BE SIMPLE, QUICK, IMITATE AS CLOSELY AS POSSIBLE A NATIVE AREOLA-NIPPLE COMPLEX AND BE RELATIVELY DURABLE, AVOIDING NUMEROUS SURGICAL PROCEDURES.: .

Purse-String Suture Technique in Reducing Surgical Defect Size

What is the purse-string suture (PSS) technique?When should this technique be used?What are the benefits and risks of the PSS technique?What are other clinical applications of the PSS technique in plastic reconstructive surgery?

Staged Excision Technique to Reduce Scar Length

Patients and surgeons are often disappointed with the scar length after conventional staged excision of large disfiguring skin lesions. We have developed an alternative approach to facilitate scar length reduction. We aimed to report the efficacy of our staged excision method, which includes a hexagonal-pattern excision, wide undermining, and purse-string suture. Sixty-five patients, each with one lesion, were included in the current study. The lesion length and width were recorded, and the scar area was calculated at each stage. The final scar length after performing the altered staged excision method was compared with that obtained after the conventional staged excision method, which was calculated using a theoretical scar model. Patient satisfaction was also evaluated. The mean longest axis length was 9.41 ± 3.83 cm preoperatively, 9.50 ± 3.92 cm after the first stage postoperatively, and 10.19 ± 3.98 cm after the final stage. The mean lesion width was 6.50 ± 3.48 cm preoperatively, 3.60 ± 1.77 cm after the first stage postoperatively, and 0.42 ± 0.31 cm after the final stage. The final scar length obtained using the altered procedure was much shorter than what would be obtained using conventional staged excision. The patient satisfaction score was 8.8 ± 1.1 out of a possible 10.0 rating. Staged excision with a hexagonal-pattern excision, wide undermining, and purse-string closure may improve aesthetic results.

[Tuberous breast reshaping mammoplasty without augmentation or reduction]

Tuberous breasts are defined by a shape anomaly, in certain relatively rare situations, patients are satisfied with the volume and only ask for a shape correction without increase or decrease. They may also be very young girls in whom the indication for implantation of a prosthesis could be premature or who do not have sufficient fat reserves for fat transfer. We discuss the different possible techniques and we propose a simple technique, relatively fast, easily reproducible whatever the experience of the surgeon, without vascular complications in our experience due to the absence of skin detachment, with a satisfactory and stable result in the time. The authors are based on a series of 12 patients operated between 2000 and 2021.

The 3-Dimensional "Croissant Mastopexy": Indications and Outcomes

ABSTRACT

Crescent mastopexy is an operation that is often maligned and infrequently used. However, it can be a useful adjunct both in primary augmentation mammaplasty and in secondary breast revision cases. The key to achieving good results with this procedure lies in conceptualizing the operation in 3 dimensions rather than 2. Most publications about the surgical technique describe deepithelialization (or at most full-thickness skin resection) of a crescent-shaped area superior to the areola and a single-layer closure of the defect. Improved outcomes are achieved if a full-thickness composite segment of tissue-skin, subcutaneous fat, and a wedge of breast parenchyma-is resected and the resulting defect closed in multiple layers. A more fitting descriptive term for this procedure, one that conveys the 3-dimensional nature of the tissue resection, is "croissant mastopexy." Croissant mastopexy has been used by the author in primary augmentation in women with mild to moderate ptosis, in patients with asymmetrical nipple position and in patients with tuberous breast deformity. The procedure is also applicable in secondary cases, but precautions must be taken to ensure that blood supply to the nipple is not compromised. When properly executed, croissant mastopexy yields good results without undue stretching of the superior half of the areola and with acceptable scars.

Review of 107 Oncoplastic Surgeries Using an Acellular Dermal Matrix with the Round Block Technique

The round block technique (RBT) is an oncoplastic surgery method that uses volume displacement techniques after partial mastectomy. However, cosmetic problems occur after tissue rearrangement in patients with small breasts or those in whom a large amount of breast tissue is excised. Therefore, we used an acellular dermal matrix (ADM) when the volume was insufficient after tissue rearrangement. Patients who underwent breast reconstruction using the ADM with the RBT after breast-conserving surgery (BCS) were included. The ADM graft was performed in two layers. First, it was placed on the glandular flap, and the patient was then seated to ascertain the degree of deformity. If the volume was insufficient, a graft was also performed under the skin flap. Overall, 107 oncoplastic surgeries were performed. Tumors were most commonly located in the upper outer quadrant of the breast, and the mean resected breast tissue was 27.1 g. Seroma was the most common complication, but it improved with several aspirations. There were no major complications or cosmetic problems requiring reoperation. Therefore, if the ADM was used for defects that could not be reconstructed with the RBT alone, safe and cosmetically good results could be obtained.

An Innovative Minimally Invasive Oncoplastic Technique for Early Breast Cancer: The Spoon-Shape Technique

Here, we describe a step-by-step novel level I oncoplastic technique and present the aesthetic results of 58 breast cancer patients who underwent the spoon-shape technique for primary tumor resection. The Paris Breast Center's 5-point scale was used to evaluate the aesthetic outcomes. The median age of the participants was 52 years old. The average size of the resected tumor was 22.1 mm; two intraoperative re-excisions were required due to positive margins. Postoperative localized seroma was observed in four patients, and one patient presented signs of wound infection. Skin flap necrosis and fat liquefaction were not observed. The average aesthetic score was 4.86. None of the patients presented cancer recurrence in the following two years. The spoon-shape technique showed good aesthetic results because it provided the surgeons an adequate amount of surrounding tissue from which to reshape the breast after tumor removal. We encourage surgeons to apply this approach in early-stage breast cancer, regardless of the quadrant where the tumor is located.

Modified techniques versus Hadfield's procedure in patients with periductal mastitis

BACKGROUND

Periductal mastitis (PM) is a rare disease characterized by chronic inflammation of the terminal mammary ducts. Complete removal of terminal lactiferous ducts with Hadfield procedure is a previously defined technique in treatment but carries various complications risks. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of modified techniques in the treatment of PM.

METHODS

Twenty women who underwent surgery due to PM between January 2012 and December 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Types of PM were determined. All patients were operated on with three different incisions [Hadfield's operation with periareolar incision (n:11), periareolar combined radial incision (n:7), and round block incision (n:2)].

RESULTS

The mean age was 37.5 ± 6.5 years (range: 24-49). Sixty percent of patients had type 3 PM. In Hadfield's procedure, NAC retraction (n:2), seroma (n:1), and hematoma (n:1) were seen. In the periareolar incision combined radial incision group only one patient had complications (seroma) and none in the round block method. Follow-up was 12 ± 1.5 months and disease relapse occurred in two patients in the Hadfield group. Patients who underwent round block were more satisfied with the appearance of the nipple.

CONCLUSIONS

In the treatment of PM, the main principle of surgical treatment is the excision of the affected canal with a clear margin. Apart from the classical Hadfield procedure, the round block method and periareolar combined radial incision techniques can be performed in the treatment of PM.

Innovative Standards in Oncoplastic Breast Conserving Surgery: From Radical Mastectomy to Extreme Oncoplasty

BACKGROUND

Oncoplastic breast conserving surgery (OBCS), which is the current procedure of choice for eligible BC patients, describes a philosophy that prioritizes oncologic and cosmetic outcomes. However, knowledge gaps regarding training, acceptance, and practice preclude standardization and make it difficult to design algorithmic guidelines to optimize individualized management in the era of precision medicine.

SUMMARY

The harmony between patient expectations and oncologic goals creates the state of the art of OBCS. Nevertheless, to achieve these goals, multidisciplinary approach is a must. Surgical decisions require a comprehensive evaluation including patient factors, tumor biology, genetics, technical considerations, and adjunct therapies. Moreover, the quality-of-life (QOL) issues should be considered as the highest level of priority with a shared decision making instituted on realistic discussions with the patient.

KEY MESSAGES

The standardization in OBCS should be initiated via defining a breast surgeon who should gain theorical and practical competence on techniques via national or international educational programs. The algorithmic patient assessment with appropriate documentation before and after surgery should be established. A simple and safe global lexicon should be designed regarding techniques to be proposed and quality metrics to be considered. Additionally, international multicenter prospective trials should be instituted to overcome knowledge gaps. It is evident that OBCS is the perfect union of science with art. Nevertheless, at the very end, the question is not the nature of the surgeon/artist who would be the extremist, the innovator, or the conservative, but the patient's satisfaction, prognosis, and QOL that conclude the cascade of state of the art of OBCS.

OUP accepted manuscript

Background

Following therapeutic mammoplasty (TM), the contralateral breast may require a later balancing procedure to optimize shape and symmetry. The alternative is to offer patients simultaneous TM with immediate contralateral symmetrization via a dual-surgeon approach, with the goal of reducing costs and minimizing the number of subsequent hospital appointments in an era of COVID-19 surges. The aim of this cost–consequence analysis is to characterize the cost–benefit of immediate bilateral symmetrization dual-operator mammoplasty versus staged unilateral single operator for breast cancer surgery.

Method

A prospective single-centre observational study was conducted at an academic teaching centre for breast cancer surgery in the UK. Pseudonymized data for clinicopathological variables and procedural care information, including the type of initial breast-conserving surgery and subsequent reoperation(s), were extracted from the electronic patient record. Financial data were retrieved using the Patient-Level Information and Costing Systems.

Results

Between April 2014 and March 2020, 232 women received either immediate bilateral (n = 44), staged unilateral (n = 57) for breast cancer, or unilateral mammoplasty alone (n = 131). The median (interquartile range (i.q.r.)) additional cost of unilateral mammoplasty with staged versus immediate bilateral mammoplasty was €5500 (€4330 to €6570) per patient (P < 0.001), which represents a total supplementary financial burden of €313 462 to the study institution. There was no significant difference between groups in age, Charlson comorbidity index, operating minutes, time to adjuvant radiotherapy in months, or duration of hospital stay.

Conclusion

Synchronous dual-surgeon immediate bilateral TM can deliver safe immediate symmetrization and is financially beneficial, without delay to receipt of adjuvant therapy, or additional postoperative morbidity.

Aesthetic breast surgery: putting in context-a narrative review

Objective

This review article summarises the latest evidence for commonly undertaken procedures in aesthetic breast surgery with a focus on key principles of breast augmentation, reduction, and mastopexy. The paper also outlines various approaches and controversies as well as complications such as breast implant associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) and breast implant illness (BII) which are increasingly being recognised and becoming a challenge to manage.

Background

Changing trends of aesthetic breast surgery over the decades has warranted a continuous evolution of this field. The ability to deliver safe and appropriate care is dependent upon sound reconstructive principles and proper training. The lack of uniformity in either is a cause of concern. The impact of social media and changing perception of body image can also no longer be overlooked in the field of aesthetics and reconstruction.

Methods

Review of literature including recent journals, textbook chapters, online databases like PubMed, and current government and surgical society guidelines.

Conclusions

Breast reconstruction is based on sound surgical principles and it is imperative to follow these for the practice of this speciality. There are two important issues that revolve around this aspect of surgery. First relates to the urgent need to invest time and effort in improving regulations and outcomes in the cosmetic surgery industry. Second, it is crucial to promote and prioritize the development and training in this field as the principles of aesthetic breast surgery underpins oncoplastic breast surgery for management of cancer.

Percutaneous Intradermal Purse-String closure for Correction of Male Tuberous Nipple-Areola Complex Deformity

BACKGROUND

Male tuberous breast is an exceedingly rare condition that not fit properly into the majority of existing classifications of gynecomastia. This deformity has been categorized by Cordova and Moschella as gynecomastia grade III; however, they do not make any reference to the isolated tuberous deformity of the nipple-areola complex (NAC). Considering that the areolar area is the main ''esthetic unit'' in the male chest, surgical correction of the isolated tuberous NAC deformity can be challenging. There is a belief that this deformity is unsuccessfully corrected when approached through a limited periareolar incision at the lower pole. A complete periareolar incision, with a concentric excision of excess areolar skin, is usually required leaving an unnatural-looking round periareolar scar on the male thorax.

METHODS

We describe a variation of a surgical technique for the correction of a male tuberous NAC deformity in a teenager who rejected a conspicuous round periareolar scar after surgery. This modification combines a conventional lower hemiareolar approach with a percutaneous intradermal purse-string suture in the superior areolar margin to reduce the areolar diameter, avoiding an evident circumareolar scar.

RESULT

At the six-month follow-up, areolar widening or tuberous deformity relapse was not observed. The patient felt satisfied with the outcome.

CONCLUSION

The use of percutaneous intradermal purse-string periareolar suture for correction of this rare deformity is a simple and reproducible surgical technique that could help to obtain a better cosmetic result by restoring the contour of the male chest while minimizing the visibility of the residual scar.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE V

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

[Tuberous breast deformity correction: Long-term satisfaction assessment with BREAST-Q questionnaire]

BACKGROUND

Tuberous Breast Deformity (TBD) is a complex breast malformation: shape, size and symmetry of breast can be affected. It causes physical and mental suffering with significant effect on life quality. The purpose of this study is to assess patients satisfaction and patients quality of life after TBD surgery over time.

METHODS

All TBD patients operated between January 2007 and December 2018 were retrospectively identified for the study and those treated whith implant and/or mammoplasty were included. Different parameters have been recorded: age, malformation severity, breast symmetry, BMI, pregnancies, breast-feeding, type of primary surgery, complications and number of re-operations. Long-term satisfaction was assessed thanks to a BREAST-Q questionnaire (with a special « augmentation » or « reduction/mastopexy » module according to the primary surgery).

RESULTS

Eighty-two patients were included: 35 patients had recieved bilateral breast implants, 14 patients had received unilateral breast implant with or without collateral mammoplasty, and 33 patients had undergone breast reduction surgery. The total average for the medical follow-up was 7.4 years. The number of intervention was significantly higher for patients who had undergone breast augmentation surgery (P=0.001) and for patients with severe TBD (P=0.01). Forty patients replied to the BREAST-Q questionnaire. Patients satisfaction scores were not significantly different between the different groups. Regarding life quality scores, patients undergoing a breast augmentation surgery with bilateral implants seemed to have a better "sexual well-being" score (P=0.03). "Physical well-being" score was lower for patients who had a breast reduction compared to the other groups (P=0.01). Patients with breast implants had significant better quality of life scores, especially for the following parameters: "psychosocial well-being" (P=0.02), "sexual well-being" (P<0.001), "physical well-being" (P<0.001) and "satisfaction with breast" (P=0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

TBD surgery basically provides long-term satisfaction for most of the patients. The number of re-operations does not seem to deteriorate satisfaction over time.

The Periareolar Approach: All Seasons Technique for Multiple Breast Conditions

The periareolar approach was first introduced by Hollander in 1924 and, since then, numerous contributions have been reported by different authors. Despite all the strengths associated with this versatile technique, the periareolar approach still poses three main problems: large areolar diameter with poor quality scar, flattening of the breast cone, and poor stability of the results. The purpose of this article is to show how this surgical technique, with a good patient selection, can be applied to different situations and obtain excellent results.

The ECLiPSE Procedure as an Alternative to Mastopexy following Implant Removal

With the rise in number of breast implant removals for a variety of indications, strategies to improve aesthetic outcomes, while minimizing scars and operating time, will prove to be of benefit. We present here a novel periareolar sickle skin excision as a good option for women with mild to moderate ptosis and central loss of breast volume following implant removal/capsulectomy.

Augmentation mastopexy using a double skin incision: the inframammary fold approach with periareolar de-epithelialization

Background For the correction of small breasts with grade I ptosis, it is very challenging for plastic surgeons to obtain excellent aesthetic results by performing simultaneous breast augmentation and nipple-areolar complex (NAC) lifting. Previous research has introduced one-stage augmentation mastopexy, but most studies described using the periareolar approach. The current study proposes a technique for augmentation mastopexy using the inframammary fold approach for augmentation and the periareolar approach for mastopexy.Methods Twenty patients were enrolled, and surgery was performed on 40 breasts. A pocket was made with the inframammary fold approach and the dual-plane method; subsequently, a tear-drop shape implant was inserted using a funnel. We performed NAC lifting using the de-epithelialization and interlocking purse-string suture method through the periareolar approach.Results The mean distance from the mid-clavicular line to the nipple was 23.4 cm preoperatively, 19.6 cm at 7 days of follow-up, and 20.3 cm at 12 months of follow-up. Complications such as hematoma, infection, NAC necrosis, capsular contracture, and wound dehiscence were not reported.Conclusions We performed successful breast augmentation and mild ptosis correction. No specific complications were observed during 1 year of postoperative follow-up. Our method is a simple and fast method that enables surgeons to perform augmentation and mastopexy in one stage for breasts with grade I ptosis.

Breast reconstruction and radiation therapy: An Italian expert Delphi consensus statements and critical review

Breast conserving surgery (BCS) plus radiation therapy (RT) or mastectomy have shown comparable oncological outcomes in early-stage breast cancer and are considered standard of care treatments. Postmastectomy radiation therapy (PMRT) targeted to both the chest wall and regional lymph nodes is recommended in high-risk patients. Oncoplastic breast conserving surgery (OBCS) represents a significant recent improvement in breast surgery. Nevertheless, it represents a challenge for radiation oncologists as it triggers different decision-making strategies related to treatment volume definition and target delineation. Hence, the choice of the best combination and timing when offering RT to breast cancer patients who underwent or are planned to undergo reconstruction procedures should be carefully evaluated and based on individual considerations. We present an Italian expert Delphi Consensus statements and critical review, led by a core group of all the professional profiles involved in the management of breast cancer patients undergoing reconstructive procedures and RT. The report was structured as to consider the main recommendations on breast reconstruction and RT and analyse the current open issues deserving investigation and consensus. We used a three key-phases and a Delphi process. The final expert panel of 40 colleagues selected key topics as identified by the core group of the project. A final consensus on 26 key statements on RT and breast reconstruction after three rounds of the Delphi voting process and harmonisation was reached. An accompanying critical review of available literature was summarized. A clear communication and cooperation between surgeon and radiation oncologist is of paramount relevance both in the setting of breast reconstruction following mastectomy when PMRT is planned and when extensive glandular rearrangements as OBCS is performed. A shared-decision making, relying on outcome-based and patient-centred considerations, is essential, while waiting for higher level-of-evidence data.