The "Smile Mastopexy": A Novel Technique to Aesthetically Address the Excess Skin Envelope in Large, Ptotic Breasts While Preserving Nipple Areolar Complex During Prosthetic Breast Reconstruction

Abstract

Background: Classically large, ptotic breasts have been a contraindication for nipple preservation during breast reconstruction. We present a technique of "smile mastopexy" (SM) to reduce the excess skin in both vertical and transverse directions, avoid a T-junction, preserve the nipple areolar complex, and add thickness to the upper pole of the breast at the time of mastectomy.

Objectives: The authors sought to demonstrate the safety and reliability of a novel technique that addresses the excess skin envelope during breast reconstruction while preserving the nipple-areola complex in large, ptotic breasts.

Methods: This is a retrospective review of a single surgeon performing the SM for immediate 2-stage prosthetic breast reconstruction. All were performed in the prepectoral pocket without utilization of acellular dermal matrices.

Results: Thirty patients (total 54 breasts) aged a mean 50 years with BMI of 30 kg/m2 and mastectomy specimen weight of 683 g were included. All had class 2 or 3 ptosis. There were no cases of complete nipple loss. The overall complication rate was 14.8%. There were 3 explantations: 1 (1.8%) due to infection and 2 (3.7%) due to implant exposure. Radiation was associated with a higher complication rate.

Conclusions: The SM is a safe and reliable technique in large, ptotic breasts during prosthetic breast reconstruction. It preserves the nipple-areola complex, reduces the excess skin envelope, adds thickness to the upper pole, and allows for future skin revisions with the same scar if necessary.

Level of Evidence: 4.