The Inferior-Based Dermoglandular Flap with Partial Subpectoral Implant Transposition and Revision Mastopexy for Subglandular Breast Augmentation Complications.

BACKGROUND

Revision augmentation-mastopexy is a complex procedure that aims to correct the complications of a previous surgery. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the reliability of the inferior-based dermoglandular flap with partial subpectoral implant coverage to correct implant- and tissue-related complications associated with primary subglandular breast augmentation and its influence on improving outcomes.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study in which a total of 53 patients (106 breasts) underwent revision augmentation-mastopexy using the double coverage technique for an implant with an inferior-based dermoglandular flap and superior-based pectoralis major muscle (biplane) as the first layer and a nipple-areolar flap with breast pillars as the second layer. This technique provides a suspensory reconstruction that acts as hammock to minimize the pressure on the inframammary fold and maintain position integrity.

RESULTS

The follow-up period ranged from 2.3 to 4 years (mean 3.6 years), and the recorded complications were minor wound dehiscence less than 1 cm at the "T" junction in three breasts (2.83 %) and mild hypertrophic scarring in five breasts (4.72%).

CONCLUSION

The use of an inferior-based dermoglandular flap with partial subpectoral biplane implant reinforcement allows autologous support and double coverage to decrease the incidence of implant- and tissue-related complications, especially pseudoptosis, lower pole widening, capsular contracture, rippling, and implant visibility. It achieves enhanced upper pole fullness, medial cleavage, projection, and breast volume.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .