Importance of pedicle length in inferior pedicle technique and long-term outcome of areola-to-fold distance.

Abstract

Various techniques are being used to perform reduction mammaplasty. One of the most widely used techniques is the inferior pedicle technique. To our knowledge, there are not many studies on long-term changes in areola-to-fold distance, distribution of pedicle length, and its importance. Therefore, in this study, breast volume, suprasternal notch-to-nipple distance, and nipple-to-inframammary fold distance were analyzed and the movement range of the nipple-areola complex was determined. In addition, the degree of benefit derived from the technique and the degree of long-term ptosis were investigated. The desired transposition of the nipple can be achieved by the inferior pedicle technique. The most serious complication of reduction mammaplasty is impairment of the blood supply to the nipple. However, the inferior pedicle technique has a slight possibility of causing the above complications. The most important criterion in deciding whether to perform free nipple technique or inferior pedicle technique is the pedicle length. This is a detailed study on the pedicle length and its statistical analysis.