Reduction mammoplasty with combined Pitanguy technique and Silveira Neto flap for nipple-areolar complex elevation

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Mammary hypertrophy is common, and has great clinical importance, affecting women both psychologically and functionally, especially when severe. To avoid vascular compromise and necrosis associated with reduction mammoplasty in cases with severe hypertrophy and ptosis, a safe option involves combined use of Pitanguy technique and a Silveira Neto areolar superomedial dermoglandular flap. METHODS: Fourteen reduction mammoplasties were performed between April 2014 and July 2016 with the combined technique. Parenchymal resection ranged from 900 to 1,800 g, and the superior displacement distance of the nipple-areolar complex ranged from 5 to 15 cm. Vascular and scarring complications of the nipple-areolar complex were evaluated. RESULTS: All patients reported satisfaction with the aesthetic and functional results obtained with surgery. A small area of sloughing where the inframammary crease and the vertical scar intersect was observed in 4 patients; healing occurred by second intention, without significant aesthetic sequelae. Neither sloughing nor partial or total necrosis of the nipple-areolar complex were observed, despite the significant elevation. Two cases of hypopigmentation of a small area at the areolar margin were observed. CONCLUSION: The combined technique was successful in the treatment of prominent mammary hypertrophy, enabling safe reduction of large volumes, correction of severe ptosis, and significant elevation of the nipple-areolar complex. Good aesthetic and functional results were obtained, without vascular compromise of the nipple-areolar complex.

Keywords

• mammoplasty
• breast/abnormalities
• reconstructive surgical procedures
• surgical flaps
• areola