Use of the Breast Bolster to Address Intraoperative Asymmetries in Breast Augmentation Surgery

Abstract

Introduction: Breast asymmetry is a common complication following breast augmentation surgery. It is a frequent cause for reoperation and many times can be prevented with good preoperative examination and planning. Iatrogenic asymmetric breast pocket development is among the unforeseeable causes of breast asymmetry. We submit a simple technique to prevent breast asymmetry intraoperatively if asymmetric pocket development has been identified. Materials and Methods: A 46-year-old female patient with no preoperative asymmetries was planned for submuscular breast augmentation. Upon creation of the submuscular pocket, an asymmetry was noted in a more inferiorly positioned right breast. Using the breast bolster technique, this problem was addressed and corrected intraoperatively. The details of the procedure are presented. Results: Evaluation on 4-week and 3-month follow-up appointments revealed an excellent result with high patient satisfaction. Discussion: The application of the breast bolster is a quick procedure with little to no morbidity and could potentially prevent a need for further corrective surgery. Its application may be used to prevent such problems as symmastia when identified intraoperatively.