Dermo-Glandular Suspension Following Wise-Pattern Explantation-Mastopexy: Is it Reaching the Intended Heights?

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Aesthetic Medicine
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• The inferiorly based dermo-glandular sling is a known technique for implant coverage and breast fullness restoration.
• Its long-term effectiveness in cosmetic breast implant removal needed further evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review technique modifications and aesthetic outcomes of the inferiorly based dermo-glandular sling in cosmetic breast explantation over 13 years.
• To assess the reliability and aesthetic results of this technique for breast rejuvenation post-explantation.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 19 breast explant patients undergoing parenchymal re-draping with an inferiorly based dermo-glandular sling.
• Analysis of perioperative photographs using BCCT.core software for aesthetic outcome assessment.

Main Results:

• 19 patients (mean age 54, BMI 27.6) underwent the procedure for reasons including implant-envelope disharmony, pain, BIA-ALCL concerns, "breast implant illness," and large implant size.
• Median bra size decreased from 36E to 36C.
• Aesthetic outcomes were rated as Excellent (5/18) or Good (13/18) by BCCT.core software.

Conclusions:

• The inferiorly de-epithelialised dermo-glandular sling reliably rejuvenates the breast after implant removal, addressing parenchymal disharmony.
• The technique provides a reliable, aesthetically robust option for breast reshaping and uplift in patients declining re-implantation.
• Suitable candidates are typically middle-aged women with previously augmented breasts and sufficient inferior pole tissue.