Internal Mastopexy: A Novel Method of Filling the Upper Poles During Dual-Plane Breast Augmentation Trough Periareolar Incision

Abstract

Background: Breast ptosis is a deformity commonly found in patients seeking breast augmentation. Current mastopexy techniques rely on incisions on the breast to correct ptosis; nonetheless, they leave extensive scars. Having to opt for a visibly scarred breast over a ptotic breast can be a difficult choice. Objectives: We sought an innovative internal suture mastopexy for hypomastia of mild breast ptosis. Methods: A procedure that left a tiny scar on the nipple-areolar complex was introduced. This method was safe and efficient when combining mastopexy with augmentation. Results: Overall, 53 patients underwent this operation in the Plastic and Cosmetic Department of Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital from January 1, 2013, to June 30, 2017, with a mean follow-up of 38 ± 16 months. The pre-operation and post-operation SN-N lines (the distance from the sternal notch to the nipple) were 21.8 ± 1.2 cm and 20.7 ± 1.0 cm, respectively; the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). The patients and surgeon expressed satisfaction with the procedure. Conclusion: Based on the results of the present study, which included more than 50 patients, we believe that internal suture mastopexy can be used as an effective alternative hypomastia in patients with mild breast ptosis. Level of Evidence IV: IV This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.