Method for Intraoperative Positioning of the Nipple-Areola Complex in Vertical Scar Reduction Mammaplasty

Abstract

The desired shape and position of the nipple-areola complex may be difficult to achieve in vertical scar reduction mammaplasty when using the standard technique of preoperative marking of the so-called mosque-shaped areolar pattern of excision. We describe our modified approach of intraoperative final positioning of the nipple-areola complex by hiding the nipple-areola complex behind the closed vertical incision. Individual positioning at the final part of the operation allows for more predictable results and also for a calculated lower positioning, which enables balance of the potential bottoming-out of the breast, particularly in previously large ptotic breasts. We believe that this modification helps to further improve the results of vertical scar reduction mammaplasty by adding more possibilities for shaping and "last-minute" modifications intraoperatively.