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Inframammary Fold Reconstruction Techniques: A Scoping Review
Daan G E Janssen1, Andrzej A Piatkowski de Grzymala1
1From the Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Hand Surgery, Maastricht UMC+, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Global Open
|March 23, 2026
Summary
Reconstructing the inframammary fold (IMF) after mastectomy is challenging. Open techniques offer better visualization but higher risks, while closed methods are less invasive. Durable IMF reconstruction requires further research.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Breast Reconstruction
- Anatomical Structures
Background:
- The inframammary fold (IMF) is vital for breast aesthetics post-reconstruction.
- Mastectomy often compromises the IMF, requiring effective reconstruction.
- Optimal IMF reconstruction techniques lack consensus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and categorize existing inframammary fold reconstruction techniques.
- To analyze outcomes and complications associated with different IMF reconstruction methods.
Main Methods:
- A scoping review of PubMed and Embase databases.
- Inclusion of 25 studies detailing IMF reconstruction surgical techniques.
- Categorization of techniques into open (direct/indirect), closed, and other approaches.
Main Results:
- Open approaches provide superior visualization and anchoring but have higher complication risks.
- Closed techniques are less invasive but limit visualization and fixation.
- Skin-fascia adherence appears crucial for durable IMF reconstruction; recurrence is common.
Conclusions:
- No single inframammary fold reconstruction technique is definitively superior.
- Limited comparative and prospective studies hinder definitive conclusions.
- Future research should focus on comparative studies and adjunctive strategies like liposuction for IMF stability.
