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The three dermoglandular flap support in reduction mammaplasty
Michele Pascone1, Michele Di Candia, Christian Pascone
1Bari, Italy From the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Consorziale Policlinico, University of Bari.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|June 30, 2012
Summary
The three dermoglandular flap technique offers a safe and effective method for breast reduction in smokers, achieving aesthetically pleasing results with minimal complications. This approach ensures a stable, harmonious breast shape over time.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Bilateral breast reduction addresses physical pain and psychological distress from heavy breasts.
- Established techniques aim for safe nipple-areola complex transposition and aesthetic breast shape.
- The three dermoglandular flap technique is proposed, utilizing dermal support for improved outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the three dermoglandular flap technique in a high-risk group of smoking patients.
- To assess the safety and aesthetic outcomes of this technique in patients with significant breast hypertrophy and ptosis.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 47 smokers undergoing bilateral breast reduction using the three dermoglandular flap technique (1995-2007).
- Patients had breast volume >1000 cc, grade 3 ptosis, and BMI >27.
- Nipple-areola complex blood supply was maintained via an inferior-central pedicle.
Main Results:
- The study included 47 smokers (mean age 49, mean BMI 31.2).
- An overall complication rate of 14.9% was observed.
- No instances of wound breakdown or nipple-areola complex necrosis were reported.
Conclusions:
- Three dermoglandular flap reduction mammaplasty yields good breast shape, texture, and projection.
- The technique provides stable, aesthetically pleasing results in challenging breast hypertrophy cases.
- This method is a safe and practical surgical approach for selected patients.
