Nipple Sensation Research Articles

The medial-central septum based mammaplasty: A reliable technique to preserve nipple-areola complex sensitivity in post bariatric patients.

Massive weight loss is associated with the ptosis of the breast, loss of the upper pole fullness, medialization of the nipples and volume depletion. Post bariatric patients often need breast reshaping with mastopexy or breast reduction. We report the author's experience with the medial central septum based mammoplasty for breast reshaping after massive weight loss. We retrospectively reviewed the records of 85 women who underwent a medial-central septum based mammaplasty, analyzing patients (age, BMI, comorbidities) and operation specific characteristics' (surgical technique, complications) to identify the advantages and the drawbacks of the adopted technique. All the procedures were performed at a single institution by the senior author of this article. 85 patients were included in the review, in total 170 medial-central septum based mammaplasty were performed over a five years period. Early complications, as hematoma and seroma occurred in 2 patients. No total or partial nipple-areola losses were recorded and the viability of the nipple-areola complex (NAC) was excellent in all the treated patients. Sensation was retained in all breasts. Nine patients showed delayed wound healing at the joint of the T scar; in 5 patients we observed spreading scars. The medial-central septum based mammaplasty seems to be an effective and safe choice for breast reshaping after massive weight loss, as none of our patients experienced nipple loss and all of them reported good nipple sensation. Moreover, the technique is versatile and can be applied to patients with hypertrophic breasts or gigantomastia.

Development and Validation of a Nipple-Specific Scale for the BREAST-Q to Assess Patient-Reported Outcomes following Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy.

Nipple-sparing mastectomy and immediate reconstruction has become increasingly popular for prophylactic and therapeutic indications. Patient-reported outcomes instruments such as the BREAST-Q provide important information regarding patient satisfaction and aesthetic and functional outcomes. However, a validated patient-reported outcomes scale specifically addressing nipple-related outcomes following nipple-sparing mastectomy is not currently available. The authors developed a new scale measuring nipple outcomes by adapting nipple reconstruction questions from the BREAST-Q breast reconstruction module. Patients completed the questions using the think-aloud method and underwent semistructured cognitive interviews to discuss their nipple-sparing mastectomy experience to elicit new concepts. Interviews were coded and additional questions were added based on this analysis after receiving additional input from a multidisciplinary group of breast cancer providers. The final scale was distributed electronically to a larger group with solicitation for any issues that were not addressed in the question set. Ten patients completed the initial questionnaire. Analysis of the cognitive interviews identified nipple sensation, position, projection, scarring, symmetry, and surgical expectations as key content areas. After revising the questionnaire, an additional 35 patients completed it electronically. All respondents felt the questions were clear and no additional issues needed to be addressed. Feedback was used to clarify the instructions for how to respond to the questions if bilateral nipple-sparing mastectomy had been performed. Through qualitative patient interviews and adaptation of existing BREAST-Q questions, appropriate nipple-focused questions were developed to assess outcomes following nipple-sparing mastectomy. Incorporating these questions into patient-reported outcomes assessment of patients undergoing nipple-sparing mastectomy can help improve future techniques and optimize outcomes.

Application of modified inferior pedicle technique with inverted T pattern for severe breast hypertrophy

To explore the effectiveness of modified inferior pedicle technique with inverted T pattern for severe breast hypertrophy. Between January 2016 and May 2017, 15 patients of severe breast hypertrophy had undergone breast reduction using inferior pedicle technique with inverted T pattern combined with dermal suspension sling technique. The patients were 20 to 49 years old, with an average age of 31.6 years. Body mass index ranged from 24.9 to 32.5 kg/m 2, with an average of 30.8 kg/m 2. Among them, 11 cases had a history of childbearing. The degree of breast ptosis was rated as degree Ⅱ in 6 cases and degree Ⅲ in 9 cases. The unilateral breast reduced 615 g on average (range, 480-1 050 g). The skin flap necrosis at the "T" trilateral junction occurred in 3 cases, and healed after dressing changes. The incisions of 12 cases healed and no fat liquefaction, hematoma, or seroma occurred. The sensation of nipple and areola declined at early period after operation in 2 cases, and gradually recovered. All patients were followed up 6-18 months (mean, 13 months). The shapes of bilateral breasts and the height and symmetry of nipple-areolar complex were good, and no obvious scar was found. The effectiveness was evaluated by surgeon and showed that there were 12 cases with satisfactory breast shape and 3 cases with unsatisfactory breast shape; 3 cases with obvious scare and 12 cases with insignificant scar; 13 cases with normal nipple sensation and 2 cases with hypoesthesia; 11 cases with symmetric nipples and 4 cases with asymmetric nipples. The effectiveness was evaluated by patients and showed that the satisfactory breast shape in 10 cases, relatively satisfactory breast shape in 4 cases, and unsatisfactory breast shape in 1 case; highly acceptable scar in 9 cases, moderately acceptable scar in 4 cases, and unacceptable scar in 2 cases; overall satisfactory in 10 cases, relatively satisfactory in 4 cases, and unsatisfactory in 1 case, with the overall satisfaction rate of 93.3% (14/15). For severe breast hypertrophy, the modified inferior pedicle technique with inverted T pattern can obtain satisfactory appearance and avoid the mastoptosis.

Secondary reduction mammaplasty: does initial pedicle design matter?

Reduction mammaplasty is one of the most common plastic surgical procedures performed in the United States. Occasionally patients will require a second reduction to address persistent or recurrent symptomatic macromastia. When the vascular pedicle of a primary breast reduction is unknown, there is uncertainty regarding how best to proceed with a secondary reduction. When the pedicle is known, we include at least the primary pedicle in our operative plan. When unknown, we performed a modified central mound (MCM) reduction technique. The MCM reduction respects the blood supply to the nipple-areolar complex (NAC) by preserving any remaining vascularity that is present within the central mound tissue while also maintaining superior and inferior vascular pedicles. We avoid using a free nipple graft.Thirty patients (60 breasts) underwent repeat breast reductions between 2009 and 2016. Patients were placed into two groups whether their primary vascular pedicle was known or unknown, and then further grouped based on the type of reduction they received. There was no significant difference in the complication rate between patients that underwent an MCM reduction versus those that underwent reduction with other techniques. Most patients maintained breast sensation and none required a free nipple graft.Patients can be offered repeat reduction mammaplasty with the possibility of nipple sensation preservation and a normal-appearing NAC regardless if the primary vascular pedicle is known. If the primary pedicle is unknown, the MCM technique is an excellent option.

Sensation-Sparing Correction of Inverted Nipples Using the ‘Drawbridge’ Flap Approach

An inverted nipple can cause significant functional and psychologic disturbance to women. The holy grail of any surgical technique to correct this is to restore adequate nipple projection and at the same time, try to preserve lactation and nipple sensation. We describe our experience using an inferior dermal nipple-areolar interposition flap to correct the inverted nipple alongside with selective release of the lactiferous ducts of the nipple. We have employed this technique successfully in 97 cases of inverted nipples in 60 patients with follow-up periods of up to 2years. Twenty-three of them had unilateral inversion, and 37 of them had bilateral nipple inversion. The appearance of the nipple was good to excellent. Seventy to 80% of the initial postoperative nipple projection at the end of 1year was maintained. Postoperative complications included stitch abscess in one patient (n = 1) and an epidermal cyst in another (n = 1). Nipple sensation was preserved in 100% of cases. There was no recurrence of inversion in any of the nipples. By identifying the root cause of inverted nipples in each individual case, and selectively targeting them, we minimize surgical morbidity with a simple technique that avoids any form of traction or compression of the nipple and minimizes the risk of altered nipple sensation. 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 .

Abstract: Effect of Surgical Complications on Health-Related Quality of Life Outcomes in Adolescents and Young Women Following Reduction Mammaplasty

PURPOSE: Although reduction mammaplasty is associated with improved health-related quality of life (HRQoL), surgical treatment for younger patients remains controversial. This study measures complications following reduction mammaplasty in adolescents and young women, and the impact of surgical complications on HRQoL outcomes. METHODS: Clinical evaluations were performed and the following validated surveys were administered to skeletally mature patients undergoing reduction mammaplasty, aged 12–21 years: Short-Form 36v2 (SF-36), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), Breast-Related Symptoms Questionnaire (BRSQ), and Eating-Attitudes Test-26 (EAT-26). Subjects completed surveys at baseline and postoperatively at 6 months, 1 year, 3 years, 5 years, and 7 years. RESULTS: A total of 512 subjects were included (mean age was 17.8 years). Less than one-third of subjects experienced at least one complication, most commonly: hypertrophic scarring, persistent altered breast or nipple sensation, keloid formation, and wound dehiscence. Complication rates did not vary by BMI category, age, or amount of tissue resected. Patients demonstrated significant postoperative improvements in all SF-36 domains (physical functioning, role-physical, general health, bodily pain, vitality, social functioning, role-emotional, and mental health), and on the RSES, BRSQ, and EAT-26. HRQoL outcomes largely did not vary by complication status. CONCLUSION: Although major complications following reduction mammaplasty are rare in adolescents, minor complications are common. Complication rates in this sample did not vary by age, BMI, or resection mass. When complications occurred, patients experienced significant postoperative HRQoL gains, comparable to patients without complications. Providers should be aware of the benefits reduction mammaplasty can provide younger macromastia patients, regardless of complication status.

Supero-medial reduction mammaplasty: a safe and reliable technique in gigantomastia and severe breast ptosis.

Reduction mammaplasty in huge breasts poses a great challenge for plastic surgeons. The classic technique is free nipple and areola grafting after breast amputation. This paper is a short technical report of reduction mammoplasty on 40 patients with severe breast ptosis (suprasternal notch to nipple >35 cm) and giganticomastia (anticipated resection of more than 1 kg per breast) were operated upon using superomedial pedicle technique for reduction mammaplasty. All patients were satisfied with their results aesthetically, and showed relief in their neck pain. There were no cases of total nipple-areola loss. In one breast, the nipple-areolar complex (NAC) was congested intra-operatively and free nipple grafting was done. The NAC sensation was preserved in 36 cases, and all other complications were minimal and self-limiting. The superomedial pedicle technique has proven to be a safe and reliable method for reduction mammaplasty in huge breasts. Compared to the classic free nipple and areola technique, this method showed promising results in preserving the nipple sensation and giving more pleasant natural projecting breasts.

Chest Reconstruction and Chest Dysphoria in Transmasculine Minors and Young Adults

Transmasculine youth, who are assigned female at birth but have a gender identity along the masculine spectrum, often report considerable distress after breast development (chest dysphoria). Professional guidelines lack clarity regarding referring minors (defined as people younger than 18 years) for chest surgery because there are no data documenting the effect of chest surgery on minors. To examine the amount of chest dysphoria in transmasculine youth who had had chest reconstruction surgery compared with those who had not undergone this surgery. Using a novel measure of chest dysphoria, this cohort study at a large, urban, hospital-affiliated ambulatory clinic specializing in transgender youth care collected survey data about testosterone use and chest distress among transmasculine youth and young adults. Additional information about regret and adverse effects was collected from those who had undergone surgery. Eligible youth were 13 to 25 years old, had been assigned female at birth, and had an identified gender as something other than female. Recruitment occurred during clinical visits and via telephone between June 2016 and December 2016. Surveys were collected from participants who had undergone chest surgery at the time of survey collection and an equal number of youth who had not undergone surgery. Outcomes were chest dysphoria composite score (range 0-51, with higher scores indicating greater distress) in all participants; desire for chest surgery in patients who had not had surgery; and regret about surgery and complications of surgery in patients who were postsurgical. Of 136 completed surveys, 68 (50.0%) were from postsurgical participants, and 68 (50.0%) were from nonsurgical participants. At the time of the survey, the mean (SD) age was 19 (2.5) years for postsurgical participants and 17 (2.5) years for nonsurgical participants. Chest dysphoria composite score mean (SD) was 29.6 (10.0) for participants who had not undergone chest reconstruction, which was significantly higher than mean (SD) scores in those who had undergone this procedure (3.3 [3.8]; P < .001). Among the nonsurgical cohort, 64 (94%) perceived chest surgery as very important, and chest dysphoria increased by 0.33 points each month that passed between a youth initiating testosterone therapy and undergoing surgery. Among the postsurgical cohort, the most common complication of surgery was loss of nipple sensation, whether temporary (59%) or permanent (41%). Serious complications were rare and included postoperative hematoma (10%) and complications of anesthesia (7%). Self-reported regret was near 0. Chest dysphoria was high among presurgical transmasculine youth, and surgical intervention positively affected both minors and young adults. Given these findings, professional guidelines and clinical practice should consider patients for chest surgery based on individual need rather than chronologic age.

A modified technique for a common problem after major duct excision

Objective The present study aims to describe and evaluate a modified major duct excision (MDE) technique as regards its role in minimizing postoperative complications. Patients and methods We included female patients who underwent total duct excision due to the following indications: suspicious nipple discharge, periductal mastitis, and nipple retraction with a history of periductal mastitis. The modified MDE was performed under general anesthesia. All the patients were discharged home on the same day of the procedure and they were followed up for 6 months. In the follow-up, the patients were assessed for any complications to the wound, any retraction or necrosis to the nipple, the nipple sensation compared with the other one, or the nearby skin in bilateral cases. Results In this study, a total of 29 operations were performed on the 25 patients. No seroma or hematomas were observed. On follow-up of the patients, two patients suffered from infection of the wound, three cases developed breakdown that healed by daily dressing, one case presented with nipple necrosis most probably occurred as a result of excessive dissection with diathermy, while the remaining 31 patients recovered by primary intention with no recurrent discharge. Loss of nipple sensation occurred in four patients, impaired sensation occurred in six patients, and normal sensation in the rest of the patients was observed at 6 months of follow-up. Conclusion The modified MDE technique is a safe alternative to the classic technique with low rate of postoperative complications.

The Effect of Implant Type on Nipple Position Geometry and Aesthetics Following Tissue Expander Reconstruction After Nipple Sparing Mastectomy.

While recent studies have reported modest to no difference in breast aesthetics for shaped and round implant types in breast augmentations, the anatomy and biomechanics in the setting of breast reconstruction is different. Accordingly, we endeavored to evaluate whether two implant types impacted nipple position and aesthetic features in prosthetic breast reconstruction. A retrospective chart review was carried out on patients who underwent nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) with immediate tissue expander breast reconstruction. Patients were divided into two cohorts: smooth round implants and textured shaped implants. Postoperative photographs were evaluated to assess nipple displacement vis-à-vis a vector of maximal projection and aesthetic outcome for features of breast shape. Of 102 breasts meeting the inclusion criteria, 41 had tissue expander-implant reconstruction with anatomical shaped implants, and 61 had reconstruction with smooth round implants. The shaped implant cohort had less nipple deviation from the point of maximal projection (3.69 ± 6.24 vs 7.52 ± 10.50; P < 0.0001). Graded semi-quantitative aesthetic scores were also higher (4.04 ± 0.67 vs 3.72 ± 0.93; P = 0.0044) in the shaped implants than in the round cohort. Unlike breast augmentation, there is a paucity of overlying breast tissue and larger dissected spaces in prosthetic breast reconstruction. Our analysis suggests that in this setting, textured anatomic implants result in less nipple deviation from the point of maximum projection and improved aesthetic outcomes compared to round implants. When considering implant choice in NSM reconstruction, the manifold risks of shaped textured implants must thus be informed by potential aesthetic benefits with respect to shape and enhanced nipple sensation.

No Vertical Scar Breast Weight Transfer.

Summary:Women desire beautiful breasts that are functional, pain free, and without foreign material. Vertical scars, insufficient elevation, inadequate upper pole fullness, nipple numbness, and loss of breast feeding are undesirable. Relieving pain attributed to enlarged breasts has required significant tissue removal. Software analysis of chest images, physical measurements, and desires are combined to generate a surgical blueprint. The breast is divided horizontally into two components preserving the neurovascular supply and major lactiferous ducts. The skin flap cephalad to the areola provides external coverage. The areola remains attached to a deepithelialized mound, which is rotated into a cone. Dermal straps originating from the base of the cone are looped through the pectoralis major muscle and the cone repeatedly. Weight transfer to the pectoralis major muscles eliminates pain in 54% and decreases pain in 38%. Incisions are concealed at the areola cutaneous junction and in the shadow of the breast. Upper pole fullness increased in 86% without implants or fat transfer. Nipple sensation was increased in 37% and unchanged in 44%. Overall results were excellent in 50% and good in 36%. Complications consisted of dog-ears, periareolar infection, and fat necrosis. No patient required a return to the operation room. Combing computer-aided design with plastic surgical principles creates beautiful, functional breasts without foreign material. Vertical scars are avoided, and weight transfer relieves pain.

Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy Improves Long-Term Nipple But Not Skin Sensation After Breast Reconstruction: Quantification of Long-Term Sensation in Nipple Sparing Versus Non-nipple Sparing Mastectomy.

Changes in breast sensation after reconstruction are expected. Return of breast sensation after reconstruction and whether nipple-sparing mastectomy offers a substantial benefit in terms of sensation has been inconsistently documented in the literature. We conducted the current study using the pressure-specified sensory device to quantify postoperative breast sensation in patients undergoing nipple-sparing versus non-nipple-sparing mastectomy. Consecutive adult women who underwent nipple-sparing (NSM) and non-NSM (NNSM) and were at least 18 months postreconstruction were included. Breast measurements were taken in 4 quadrants (upper/lower lateral, upper/lower medial) and nipple. Averaged skin cutaneous thresholds [(UL+LL+UM+LM)/4] and nipple sensation between NSM and NNSM were compared as the primary outcome measure. A generalized estimating equations model was used; univariate and multivariate variable analyses were done when appropriate. Forty-four patients (74 breasts) were examined (53 NNSM vs 21 NSM). The groups were further subdivided into autologous versus implant-based reconstruction. Averaged cutaneous skin thresholds for quadrants were better for the NSM, 51.8(±24.5) g/mm versus NNSM, 56.5(±25.7) g/mm, although this difference was not statistically significant. However, NSM breasts measured higher nipple or nipple area sensitivity, 44.5(±30.8) g/mm versus NNSM, 83.8(±27.4) g/mm (P < 0.001). In a multivariate regression analysis, a predictor of decreased sensation was the number of revision surgeries, especially after third revision. Breast sensation is decreased after reconstruction in both NSM and NNSM, but nipple sensation or nipple area is better preserved in NSM breasts. Number of revision surgeries (>3) was a predictor of decreased sensation.

A Review of 101 Consecutive Subcutaneous Mastectomies and Male Chest Contouring Using the Concentric Circular and Free Nipple Graft Techniques in Female-to-Male Transgender Patients.

Many techniques exist for subcutaneous mastectomy in female-to-male transgender patients. The authors review outcomes for two techniques and present an algorithm to aid surgeons in technique selection. One hundred one consecutive female-to-male transgender patients undergoing subcutaneous mastectomy using the concentric circular or free nipple graft technique were retrospectively reviewed. An algorithm for procedure selection was created using classification and regression tree analysis. Aesthetic results (nipple-areola complex, scar, and chest contour) were also independently reviewed. Two hundred two subcutaneous mastectomies were performed (concentric circular, 92 breasts; free nipple graft, 110 breasts). The overall complication rate was 21.3 percent, with 6.4 percent requiring operative intervention (free nipple graft, 1 percent; concentric circular, 13 percent; p < 0.001). The overall revision rate was 23.8 percent (free nipple graft, 12.7 percent; concentric circular, 37.0 percent; p < 0.001). In the concentric circular group, there were 3.3 times the odds of total complications (p = 0.03) and 4.0 times the odds of revision surgery (p < 0.001). Mean aesthetic scores for the concentric circular technique were superior to free nipple graft for scar (3.39 versus 2.62; p < 0.001) and contour (3.82 versus 3.34; p < 0.001). In patients who meet selection criteria, the concentric circular technique is preferred because of fewer scars, improved aesthetic contour, and potential for retained nipple sensation. These patients must be counseled regarding the higher rate of complications and revisions. It was determined that smokers and those with a nipple-to-inframammary fold distance greater than 7 cm or nipple-to-inframammary fold distance less than 7 cm and a body mass index greater than 27 kg/m should undergo the free nipple graft technique because of the increased risk of complications with the concentric circular technique. Therapeutic, III.

Inverted Nipple Correction with Selective Dissection of Lactiferous Ducts Using an Operative Microscope and a Traction Technique.

An inverted nipple is a common congenital condition in young women that may cause breastfeeding difficulty, psychological distress, repeated inflammation, and loss of sensation. Various surgical techniques have been reported for correction of inverted nipples, and all have advantages and disadvantages. Here, we report a new technique for correction of an inverted nipple using an operative microscope and traction that results in low recurrence and preserves lactation function and sensation. Between January 2010 and January 2013, we treated eight inverted nipples in seven patients with selective lactiferous duct dissection using an operative microscope. An opposite Z-plasty was added at the junction of the nipple and areola. Postoperatively, traction was applied through an apparatus made from a rubber gasket attached to a sterile syringe. Patients were followed up for 15-48months. Adequate projection was achieved in all patients, and there was no wound dehiscence or complications such as infection. Three patients had successful pregnancies and subsequent breastfeeding that was not adversely affected by the treatment. There was no loss of sensation in any patient during the postoperative period. Our technique for treating an inverted nipple is effective and preserves lactation function and nipple sensation. The method maintains traction for a longer period, which we believe increases the success rate of the surgery for correction of severely inverted nipples. 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 .

Nipple-areolar complex reconstruction and patient satisfaction: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Nipple-areola complex (NAC) reconstruction transforms a mound of soft tissue into a breast and often marks the final stage of breast reconstruction after mastectomy. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted in accordance with the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Articles were classified based on the nipple reconstructive technique-either composite nipple sharing or local flap with nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) used as a control. A standardized "Satisfaction Score" (SS) for "nipple appearance" and "nipple sensation" was calculated for each technique. A Fisher's exact test was used to compare the SS with local flap reconstruction with NSM. Twenty-three studies met the systematic review inclusion criteria. Nine NSM articles were identified with patient satisfaction data from 473 patients. The weighted average SS for NSM was 80.5%. Fourteen local flap technique articles were identified with satisfaction data from 984 patients and a weighted average SS of 73.9%. This was a statistically significant difference (P=0.0079). C-V and badge local flap techniques were associated with the highest SS, 92.6% and 90.5%, respectively. C-V and modified C-V flap technique was associated with a higher SS when compared to those using one or more other flap techniques (P=0.0001). While patient satisfaction with nipple reconstruction is high regardless of technique, it is higher with NSM. When NSM is not an option, local flap reconstruction with a C-V or modified C-V flap may be associated with higher satisfaction than alternative local flap techniques.

The 4-flap Jester's Hat Technique for Nipple Reduction.

Macrothelia, or nipple hypertrophy, is a condition that may cause severe psychological distress to those who suffer from it. Although effective in their primary goal of reducing nipple diameter and projection, previously reported techniques in nipple reduction suffer from imperfect aesthetic outcomes with noticeable scarring patterns, anatomically anomalous shape, and a smoothing of the natural ruffles of the nipple. We propose a simple technique to nipple reduction that improves upon previous techniques and creates a more naturally appearing nipple. A 4-flap technique resembling a jester's hat is described whereby suture lines are concealed within the central nipple to recreate the naturally ruffled appearance of a native nipple. Four patients have undergone this technique at a single institution with 100% patient satisfaction and no postoperative complications. Nipple sensation was maintained in all patients postoperatively. A 4-flap nipple reduction technique is a viable alternative to previously described techniques, which may offer more anatomically congruent results.

Mild Nipple Asymmetry: Using a Supra-Areola Incision With Crescent Nipple-Areola Complex Lift to Address This Problem in Primary Breast Augmentations

Breast augmentation mammoplasty is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures in the United States. Currently, the common access incisions employed to perform the procedure are periareolar, inframammary, transaxillary, (TUBA) transumbilical, and (TABA) transabdominal (a technique that places breast prosthesis through existing abdominal scars or during the performance of an abdominoplasty). Asymmetries of the breast and chest wall are a common occurrence that is faced by aesthetic surgeons who perform breast augmentations. We aim to describe how our experience with using the supra-areola incision, for a primary breast augmentation procedure, has the added advantage of allowing us to address this problem. This article is a retrospective review of primary breast augmentation cases that were performed in our General Cosmetic Surgical Group and Fellowship Training Program from January 1, 2007, to June 30, 2015. The review addresses the incidence of nipple asymmetry in our primary breast augmentation patients and how we are able to address this problem by performing a crescent nipple-areola complex (NAC) lift via a supra-areola incision. From January 1, 2007, to June 30, 2015, 281 primary breast augmentations were performed, of which 184 (65.8%) had an NAC lift to address subjective and objective mild nipple asymmetry (~1 cm). There were no intraoperative complications. At follow-up, more than 92% of patients report satisfaction with their aesthetic outcome, 98% admitted to resolution or improvement of nipple asymmetry, 99% admitted to adequate postoperative nipple sensation, while 8% had secondary/revision breast surgery in the form of capsulectomies, scar revisions, and implant change revisions. Supra-areola incision approach should be strongly considered as a first-line approach in patients undergoing a primary breast augmentation procedure with adequately sized NAC and have evidence of mild (maximum study average = 0.95 cm) nipple asymmetry.

No-Drain Single Incision Liposuction Pull-Through Technique for Gynecomastia.

Several different methods have been proposed for treatment of gynecomastia, depending on the amount of breast enlargement and skin redundancy. The liposuction pull-through technique has been proposed as an efficacious treatment for many gynecomastia cases. This work aims to study the outcome of this technique when applied as an outpatient procedure, without the use of drains and through a single incision. Fifty-two patients with bilateral gynecomastia without significant skin excess were included in this study. The liposuction pull-through technique was performed through a single incision just above the inframammary fold and without the use of drains. Patients were followed up for 6months. The proposed technique was able to treat the gynecomastia in all patients, with a revision rate of 1.9% to remove residual glandular tissues. There were no seromas, hematomas, nipple distortion, permanent affection of nipple sensation or wound healing problems. The liposuction pull-through technique is an effective treatment for gynecomastia without significant skin redundancy. It combines the benefits of the direct excision of glandular tissues, with the minimally invasive nature of liposuction. Performing the procedure through a single incision without the use of drains and without general anesthesia is a safe alternative. 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 http://www.springer.com/00266 .

The Transareolar-Periareolar Approach.

Summary:The periareolar approach is limited by areolar diameter. Asian women typically have smaller areolae than Western women. Voluminous and form-stable silicone implants demand larger incisions. Zigzag transareolar approaches closely approximate the nipple and improve exposure, but scar appearance remains problematic, and there is a risk of ductal injury and capsular contracture. We prefer a zigzag incision that straddles the areolar border. Between 2013 and 2015, 11 augmentation mammoplasties (20 incisions) were performed through a transareolar–periareolar (TAPA) incision. The TAPA incision resembles 3 inverted V’s that traverse the inferior areolar border. Outcomes were evaluated on the basis of photographs, clinical charts, and surveys. Women were 36 years old (range, 25–50). Silicone implants were used in 10 patients and saline in 1 patient. Implants were 270 cm3, placed in subpectoral position in 6 patients and subglandular position in 5. Follow-up was 12.5 months (range, 5–20 mo); there were no hematomas or infections. There was 1 case each of seroma (9.1%) and unilateral capsular contracture (9.1%) after secondary mammoplasty. There was no implant malposition or contour deformity. There were no keloids or hypertrophic scars. Every patient was satisfied. Nipple sensation was maintained or heightened in 100% of patients surveyed. The incisions were 139% longer than 180-degree periareolar scars. TAPA scars were well tolerated in this series of Asian women. We did not observe malposition, infection, or sensory disturbances. Despite its peripheral position on the nipple–areola complex, there are not enough data to determine whether TAPA incisions reduce risks compared with traditional approaches.

The outcomes of a frenulotomy on breastfeeding infants followed up for 3months at Thammasat University Hospital.

To study the effects of frenulotomy on nipple pain, latch and the success in exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) at 3-month follow-up. A prospective cross-sectional study of 328 mother-infant pairs with both tongue-tie and breastfeeding problems was performed. Nipple pain and latch were evaluated using numeric rating scale and LATCH score, respectively, and compared between pre and post-operatively at 24h and 1week. The success rate of EBF was assessed at 3months after frenulotomy. Nipple pain score were significantly decreased (median difference=3 and 4, P<0.001) and LATCH score were significantly increased (mean difference=1.92 and 2.13, P<0.001) at 24h and 1week post-operatively. At 3months, a success rate of EBF was 66.67%. Multivariable analysis clustering by maternal age of 18years was performed. Factors that were significantly (P<0.05) associated with the success were: girls, age at surgery ≤24h, higher number of children in family, low birth weight, tongue-tie severity, nipple grading, LATCH score ≥8 and nipple sensation at 1week after surgery. Frenulotomy could significantly reduce nipple pain and increase LATCH score in tongue-tied infants with breastfeeding difficulty. Several factors are positively associated with the success of EBF. Tongue-tie severity, LATCH score and nipple sensation were the factors that can be modified by frenulotomy.