Nipple/Infra-Mammary Fold Distance: An Indicator for Aesthetic Outcome in Reduction Mammaplasty

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 The Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University

2 The Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University

Abstract

Background: Reduction mammaplasty became one of
the most common performed procedures by plastic surgeons.
Despite the diversity of the techniques that can be utilized to
achieve aesthetically pleasant results, the final outcome not
usually depends only on the shape but also on the quality of
life following the surgery.
Objective: High lighting the importence of N/IMF distance
to assess the results of outcome of breast reduction.
Material and Methods: N/IMF distance was determined
according to Tibbetts criteria; the distance is proportional to
breast width (0.6 the width, not more than 10cm). The distance
was measured on maximally stretched skin in inferior pedicle
flap reduction and mastopexy procedures, while the distance
was measured in relaxed standing position in superior or supero-
medial pedicle flaps reductions, in order to anticipate the
amount of lower pole stretch following the surgery.
Results: One hundred fifty eligible participants who underwent
reduction mammaplasty were included in our study.
Only 132 participants (88%) had completed the subjective
questionnaire as well as completed the objective assessment as
well. The patient’s subjective satisfaction was good in 63.3%
of patients. Regarding the objective assessment both breasts
were symmetrical in 75.3%, perfect size to torso in 68% of
patients & well contoured in 69.3% of patients.
Conclusion: The proportions between the N/IMF distance
and the patient’s breast measurements and topography have
great necessity to patient satisfaction and should be taken into
consideration when planning a reduction mammaplasty.

Keywords

Main Subjects


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