Nipple Preserving Wise-Pattern Mastopexy Following Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap Breast Reconstruction: Description of the Surgical Technique and Clinical Results

Abstract

Breast revision surgery is often necessary in patients following postmastectomy breast reconstruction with free autologous flaps for aesthetic improvement. Indications for nipple-sparing mastectomy continue to be expanded oncologically. However, revision techniques for aesthetic concerns following breast reconstruction are underreported in the literature. Therefore, we describe a mastopexy technique following deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstruction after nipple-sparing mastectomy to correct ptosis and reshape the breast. The blood supply of the nipple-areolar-complex is through the microvasculature of the DIEP flap and subdermal plexus. We report three patients who underwent nipple preserving Wise-pattern mastopexy following DIEP flap breast reconstruction.

Keywords

• Breast
• Breast corrective surgery
• Mastopexy
• Free flap