Scarless LICAP Flap Harvest Through Wise Pattern Incision for Breast Volume Restoration After Explantation:...

Selecting the most suitable surgical technique is crucial for successful breast reconstruction after explantation, ensuring optimal aesthetic outcomes and patient satisfaction, and minimizing complications. The authors propose the use of the turnover lateral intercostal artery perforator (LICAP) flap for breast remodeling during reconstructive volumizing procedures in explantation surgery.

This retrospective case series analyzed patients who underwent LICAP flap procedures for breast remodeling during explantation. Data were collected from medical records, focusing on surgical technique, outcomes, and complications.

The case series included a total of 10 patients who underwent bilateral turnover LICAP flap procedures for breast remodeling during explantation. The average body mass index was 30.84 kg/m². In this study, "scar-free" denotes no new cutaneous incisions beyond those used for the Wise pattern technique; flap harvest was performed through existing access. Flap survival was achieved in all 10 patients. All patients achieved stable results with optimal nipple-areolar complex position, breast shape, and projection during the 12-month follow-up visit. Two patients developed postoperative seromas, which were successfully managed during follow-up appointments.

The turnover LICAP flap is a safe, effective, and reliable option for breast auto-augmentation following breast explantation surgery. This technique demonstrates low donor-site morbidity and complication rates, eliminates the need for patient repositioning, avoids an extended thoracic scar, and provides good aesthetic outcomes.