Augmentation mastopexy using a double skin incision: the inframammary fold approach with periareolar de-epithelialization

Abstract

Background For the correction of small breasts with grade I ptosis, it is very challenging for plastic surgeons to obtain excellent aesthetic results by performing simultaneous breast augmentation and nipple-areolar complex (NAC) lifting. Previous research has introduced one-stage augmentation mastopexy, but most studies described using the periareolar approach. The current study proposes a technique for augmentation mastopexy using the inframammary fold approach for augmentation and the periareolar approach for mastopexy.Methods Twenty patients were enrolled, and surgery was performed on 40 breasts. A pocket was made with the inframammary fold approach and the dual-plane method; subsequently, a tear-drop shape implant was inserted using a funnel. We performed NAC lifting using the de-epithelialization and interlocking purse-string suture method through the periareolar approach.Results The mean distance from the mid-clavicular line to the nipple was 23.4 cm preoperatively, 19.6 cm at 7 days of follow-up, and 20.3 cm at 12 months of follow-up. Complications such as hematoma, infection, NAC necrosis, capsular contracture, and wound dehiscence were not reported.Conclusions We performed successful breast augmentation and mild ptosis correction. No specific complications were observed during 1 year of postoperative follow-up. Our method is a simple and fast method that enables surgeons to perform augmentation and mastopexy in one stage for breasts with grade I ptosis.