[A study of incision pattern and pedicles in reduction mammaplasty].

Objective: To investigate the efficacy, indication, advantage and disadvantage of methods for reduction mammaplasty.

Methods: Thirty one cases with breast hypertrophy received reduction mammaplasty using various incisions and pedicles. Based on the follow-up of the cases, the appearance, nipple-areola complex sensory function and scars were evaluated.

Results: Among the skin incision pattern, inverted T, short-horizontal invert T and vertical incision got excellent breast contour (100%), otherwise, periareolar incision got the less scar (100%). The postoperative result of lateral pedicle, lateral inferior pedicle and mammary gland pedicle were satisfactory in terms of the nipple-areola sensation and the amount of mammary tissue removed.

Conclusions: Breast contour and scar formation postoperative are related to incision design, Invert T incision or short-horizontal invert T incision is a good alternative to moderate and large hypertrophies, Periareolar incision is suitable to small hypertrophies. There is a relationship existing between pedicle location and retention of sensation or amount of mammary tissue removed. The inferior pedicle and lateral-inferior pedicle allows better shaping as well as maintaining good sensation.