Four-Flap Mammaplasty.

Abstract

Any kind of breast shaping aims certain endpoints, and results are expected to be durable. We present a breast shaping technique with an anatomical basis, reproducible and long-lasting results. A total of 700 patients have been operated on with this technique. The age of the patients ranged between 18 and 62 with a mean of 33. The follow-up period ranged between 6 months and 15 years with a mean of 18 months. Results have been documented as follow-up notes and digital photography. Subjective rate of satisfaction was estimated by each patient at 6th month follow-up visit as a rating of the overall shape, healing period and final scars from 1 (poor) to 5 (very good). The amount of resection was between 50 and 300 grams (average 190 g) per each breast for mastopexy and 240-670 grams (average 430 g) per each breast for breast reduction. The average change in NAC position at the 6-month follow-up was 3.4 cm ranging between 2.8 and 6.5 cm. In 10 patients (1.4%), hematoma necessitating nonoperative follow-up was observed. In twelve patients (1.7%), wound dehiscence requiring secondary suturing was observed. In 32 patients (4.5%), minor delays in epithelialization were managed with local wound care. In 15 patients, revision of vertical scar was needed. Patients rated their satisfaction with points ranging between 10 and 15 with an average of 13.33. Four-flap mammaplasty results in good and durable cosmetic results. 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.