Mastectomy Incision Design to Optimize Aesthetic Outcomes in Breast Reconstruction.

Background: Choosing the optimal mastectomy incision must account for oncologic, reconstructive, and aesthetic considerations, including nipple preservation, mastectomy skin margins and potential for skin involvement, mastectomy skin perfusion and viability, mastectomy skin excess, previous breast scars, the reconstructive plan, and inconspicuous new scar placement. In the present study, we aimed to assess breast reconstruction aesthetics, as they are influenced by mastectomy incision design.

Methods: Nine commonly utilized mastectomy incision patterns were grouped into 3 categories: hidden scar, vertical scar, and transverse scar.