Safe Augmentation Mastopexy: Review of 500 Consecutive Cases Using a Vertical Approach and Muscular Sling

Abstract

Background: Augmentation mastopexy remains a challenging surgery and has been frequently associated with suboptimal outcomes and remarkable reoperation rates, and one of the greatest challenges in mastopexy surgery is areolar lift, especially when implants are simultaneously used. Through the authors’ experience, this study is aimed to show a modification of the vertical approach with greater safety of the areolar pedicle. Methods: The study included all patients who underwent augmentation mastopexy surgery performed by the authors between 2019 and 2022, whether primary or nonprimary, and performed a retrospective chart review of all patients who underwent this procedure. Results: The length of the areolar lift ranged from 0 cm to 14 cm. Among the 17.4% of nonprimary mastopexies, the longest areolar lift was 11 cm. No cases of nipple–areola complex ischemia/necrosis were observed. With this technique, there were 6.2% complications (n = 31), none of which were considered serious. Conclusions: This surgical sequence is a safe option for areolar lift in augmentation mastopexy. The vertical approach also has the advantage of producing considerably shorter horizontal scars. It is also reproducible, keeping the implant stable, which results in consistent long-term results.