Mammoplasty in correcting scar-induced breast deformities*

Post-burn or post-inflammatory scarring of the breast may have significant effects on the shape and volume of the breast as well as on the nipple-areola complex (NAC). Significant asymmetry of the breasts and distortion of the NAC may result, with marked consequent psychological and physiological sequelae for the patients. This report presents three cases of scar-induced breast deformities and the use of modified reduction mammoplasty for their management. The breast scarring was induced either by burn injuries or by chronic granulomatous mastitis. Reduction mammoplasty was used to reshape the deformed scarred breast and to balance the volume asymmetry between the scarred and the non-scarred breasts. The NAC was mobilized safely on a dermal parenchymal pedicle in any direction regardless of the orientation of the pedicle. In conclusion, cosmetic surgery in the scarred breast was found to be a safe and rewarding procedure with good aesthetic results. However, it has to be carefully planned.