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Updated: Aug 7, 2026
Endoscopic Bilateral Nipple-sparing Mastectomy via a Single Axillary Incision with Immediate Pre-pectoral Implant-based Breast Reconstruction
Published on: May 17, 2024
Pediatric breast deformity
Kerry Latham1, Sarah Fernandez, Larry Iteld
1Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA. drlatham@gmail.com
Insights
Congenital breast anomalies, from mild polythelia to complex Poland syndrome, require tailored surgical and multidisciplinary management. Early intervention, guided by developmental milestones, is key for optimal outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Plastic Surgery
- Congenital Disorders
- Adolescent Medicine
Background:
- Congenital breast anomalies are common in pediatric plastic surgery.
- These conditions range from benign (polythelia) to complex (Poland syndrome, tuberous breasts).
- While often not functionally impairing, they cause significant psychological distress.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review common congenital breast disorders.
- To detail diagnosis, workup, and management strategies.
- To emphasize surgical timing based on developmental milestones.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of congenital breast anomalies.
- Analysis of diagnostic and treatment algorithms.
- Focus on surgical intervention timing.
Main Results:
- Management varies from single-stage surgery for minor anomalies to staged reconstruction for complex cases.
- Multidisciplinary care is essential for certain disorders.
- Psychological impact on adolescents necessitates careful consideration.
Conclusions:
- Congenital breast anomalies require individualized management plans.
- Surgical timing is critical and should align with patient development.
- A comprehensive approach ensures both physical and psychological well-being.
Abstract:
Congenital breast anomalies represent a relatively common set of disorders encountered by pediatric plastic surgeons with a spectrum of severity that ranges widely from the relatively benign polythelia to the very complex disorders such as Poland's syndrome and tuberous breast deformities. While the former can be treated in a single surgical setting with minimal morbidity, the more complicated disorders often require a staged reconstructive algorithm. Some disorders also require a multidisciplinary management for both workup and management. Although rarely a source of functional morbidity, these physical deformities are often a significant source of psychological stress for the adolescent male or female who feels alienated from their peers. The purpose of this article is to review the most common congenital breast disorders including the diagnosis, workup, and management especially the timing of surgical intervention as guided by normal developmental milestones.
