Skin-reducing subcutaneous mastectomy using a dermal barrier flap and immediate breast reconstruction with an implant: a new surgical design for reconstruction of early-stage breast cancer.

Background: The development of skin-sparing mastectomy techniques for early-stage breast cancer has opened a new era in reconstructive breast surgery. Because of improved early diagnoses, the demand for skin-sparing techniques continues to increase more than ever.

Methods: Between March 2006 and April 2008, skin-reducing subcutaneous mastectomy (SRSM) using the dermal barrier flap technique and simultaneous breast reconstruction with silicone implants was performed for 15 patients (a total of 26 breasts) who had either a diagnosis of early-stage breast cancer or indications for prophylactic mastectomy.