Achieving Predictability in Augmentation Mastopexy: An Update.

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Reconstructive Surgery
• Aesthetic Surgery

Background:

• One-stage augmentation mastopexy presents significant challenges due to opposing forces during combined procedures.
• High revision rates are commonly associated with simultaneous breast augmentation and mastopexy.
• A predictable and safe approach to one-stage augmentation mastopexy was previously described and is revisited here.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate long-term outcomes of a specific one-stage augmentation mastopexy technique.
• To assess the safety and predictability of the described surgical approach.
• To compare revision rates with existing literature.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 171 patients undergoing one-stage augmentation mastopexy by a single surgeon (2005-2019).
• Wise pattern mastopexy with a wide pedicle preceded subpectoral implant placement.
• Analysis of demographic data, breast measurements, surgical technique, implant choice, and complications, including long-term nipple-to-inframammary fold distance.

Main Results:

• The cumulative complication rate was 11.7%, decreasing to 6% in the latter half of the series.
• The most frequent complication necessitating revision was implant size exchange.
• Long-term follow-up showed predictable lower breast pole elongation (1.0-2.2 cm) without ptosis recurrence.

Conclusions:

• The one-stage augmentation mastopexy technique is safe and reliable.
• This approach results in predictable, minimal lower breast pole elongation.
• The reoperation rate is significantly lower than reported rates in current literature.