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Deskinning in Inverted-T Mastopexy and Augmentation Mastopexy: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Andreas Larsen1, Frederik L Aaberg1, Mathilde N Hemmingsen1
1Department of Plastic Surgery and Burns Treatment, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.
The deskinning technique for inverted-T mastopexy is a safe and time-efficient alternative to de-epithelialization, with a nipple-areola-complex (NAC) necrosis rate comparable to traditional methods. This study found no complete NAC necrosis in 274 patients, supporting deskinning
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Surgical Techniques
- Breast Reconstruction
Background:
- Traditional mastopexy often involves de-epithelialization to prevent nipple-areola-complex (NAC) necrosis.
- Preservation of dermal and subdermal plexus is believed crucial for NAC survival, though not scientifically proven.
- Deskinning, a faster alternative, resects both epidermis and dermis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the deskinning technique in inverted-T mastopexy.
- To compare the nipple-areola-complex (NAC) necrosis rates between deskinning and de-epithelialization methods.
- To assess deskinning as a time-saving alternative in mastopexy procedures.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 274 consecutive patients undergoing bilateral inverted-T mastopexy with total deskinning.
- Data collected from September 2012 to March 2020 by a single surgeon.
- Analysis focused on nipple-areola-complex (NAC) necrosis rates, with or without concurrent implant surgery.
Main Results:
- No complete nipple-areola-complex (NAC) necrosis was observed in the entire cohort.
- Three cases of unilateral, partial NAC necrosis occurred, exclusively in patients who also had implant surgery.
- Median follow-up was 29 months (IQR 13-40 months).
Conclusions:
- The nipple-areola-complex (NAC) necrosis rate using the deskinning technique is comparable to reported rates for de-epithelialization.
- Deskinning is a safe and time-efficient surgical method for inverted-T mastopexy.
- The findings support the use of deskinning in mastopexy procedures, including those with implants.
