Evaluation of Nipple–Areola Circulation in Central Pedicle Mastopexy Patients with Subpectoral Implant Placement: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Abstract

Abstract Objective Mastopexy is a procedure which is used in breast lift and reconstruction surgery and requires a small amount of parenchymal resection. In this procedure, the preservation of nipple–areola circulation is vital. The purpose of this study is to evaluate nipple–areola circulation in patients undergoing central pedicle mastopexy with subpectoral implant placement. Material and Method In this observational quasi-experimental study, data were collected retrospectively from electronic medical records. The perioperative nipple–areola circulation of patients undergoing central pedicle mastopexy with subpectoral implant placement was evaluated by integrated laser Doppler flowmetry. Descriptive statistics, one-way analysis of variance, and Tukey’s range tests were used to analyze the data. Results The preoperative, skin dissection, pectoral elevation, implant placement, 24th hour, and 2nd week nipple–areola circulation statuses of each patient who underwent central pedicle mastopexy with subpectoral implant placement were examined using an integrated laser Doppler flowmeter, and the results were compared. At each stage, all measurements were in the range of 1.8–3.6 ml/min/100g. There was no statistically significant difference between the measurement results. Conclusion Central pedicle mastopexy with subpectoral implant placement seems highly advantageous in terms of better functionality and aesthetics in the reconstruction of heavy and sagging breasts. No Level Assigned This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each submission to which Evidence-Based Medicine rankings are applicable. This excludes Review Articles, Book Reviews, and manuscripts that concern Basic Science, Animal Studies, Cadaver Studies, and Experimental Studies. 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/0026