The Aufricht geometric breast reduction revisited

The concepts and techniques describing a geometric breast reduction were first reported by Dr Gustrave Aufricht almost 50 years ago. In his presentations of 1948 and 1949 he described in detail his concept of breast reduction markings. Less obvious in these papers was his description of a central- and inferior-based pedicle preserving nipple viability. The author has used this technique for 25 years and has passed on this knowledge to 21 generations of residents. This paper represents 25 years of experience with this technique, carefully analyzing its components and noting the few modifications necessary to ensure its uniform application and consistent, good results. It is a technique that does not require precut templates and is custom applied easily to the individual patient. Skin incisions almost never require operating room adjustment, and correct nipple positioning is achieved easily, without the need for intraoperative change in patient position. Consistent, excellent results and efficient operating room time are hallmarks of this technique.