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Long-term evaluation of Nipple-Areolar complex changes in inferior versus superomedial pedicle reduction mammoplasty:
William Watfa1, Jérôme Martineau2, Salvatore Giordano3
1Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, University Hospital of Lausanne (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Saint George Hospital University Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon.
Background:
In breast reduction, traditionally the inferior pedicle (IFP) technique is considered the most performed by plastic surgeons. A growing interest for the superomedial pedicle (SMP) mammoplasty technique has been documented in literature and clinical practice. Sensory recovery of the nipple-areolar complex (NAC), final areolar shape and scarring may also have a significant impact on patient satisfaction.
Objective:
This study represents a retrospective multimodal analysis comparing NAC sensation and appearance outcomes in IFP and SMP wise pattern breast reductions with 2-year follow-up.
Methods:
From 2013 to 2017, all performed reduction mammoplasty were included and divided in two groups (IFP or SMP technique). Testing included pressure perception (Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments), NAC measurement (diameters ratio and circumference) and circumareolar scar hypertrophy assessment. Measurements were repeated at 2 weeks, 6 and 24 months postoperatively.
Results:
amongst the 73 patients, 42 (58%) had SMP technique and 31 (42%) had IFP technique. Values at 6-months showed better sensory return in the SMP (p < 0.01**). NAC enlargement, showed no difference between groups. However, there was a statistically significant increase in both the SMP (p < 0.001***) and the IFP (p < 0.01**) groups when comparing the 2-week and 24-month follow-up visits measured ratios confirming a more oval appearance over time with both techniques. Scar hypertrophy showed statistically significant reduction in both the SMP (p < 0.001***) and the IFP (p < 0.01**) groups over time.
Conclusion:
This 2-year follow-up study showed little difference in outcomes between the two techniques, but some advantages in NAC sensory recovery with the SMP.
