The 10-Year Experience with Volume Distribution Mastopexy: A Novel, Safe, and Efficient Method for Breast Rejuvenation

Abstract

Background: 

Recurrent ptosis may occur after mastopexy procedures over time. The volume distribution mastopexy technique provides breast lifting with projection enhancement and maintains breast suspension.

Method: 

Since 2010, 50 patients underwent volume distribution mastopexy procedures. The technique consists of a superior or superomedial pedicle, dissection of a Würinger-septum–based chest wall flap, suspension of the flap to the pectoralis major muscle using a prosthetic mesh, gland suture to the mesh, and fat grafting if required. A prospective study was conducted. Nipple position and length of the lower pole distance of the breast were noted. Patient satisfaction and results evaluation were reported using a Likert scale.

Results: 

A Vicryl mesh was used in the first 23 patients and a mixed polyester/Vicryl mesh was used in the following 27 patients. Wound dehiscence occurred in one patient. At an average follow-up of 3 years, nipple position remained stable in position, but lower pole distance elongation was observed in five patients (20 percent) and in one patient (3 percent) who had Vicryl mesh and mixed mesh respectively (p < 0.05). Only four breasts (4.7 percent) demonstrated significant lower pole elongation over time (>15 percent), all in the Vicryl mesh group. Worth noting, both the patients and the independent evaluators provided high ratings of the result of 4.7 and 4.6, respectively, on a Likert scale.

Conclusions: 

The volume distribution mastopexy technique repositions the ptotic gland with a mesh to suspend the breast gland and to maintain the lifting effect. However, the synthetic mixed mesh proved to be significantly more effective in achieving this goal.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 

Therapeutic, IV.