Upper Footprint Dependent Nipple Position to Avoid High-Riding

Description

Introduction: High-riding nipple following reduction mammoplasty is a challenging problem for the plastic surgeons. To avoid such problem, many methods have been described for marking the correct nipple position but still controversial. We aimed in this study to present our experience in preventing excessive nipple elevation after reduction mammoplasty by using the upper footprint to set the new nipple position. Material and Methods: From March 2019 to March 2022, 25 female patients at a mean age of 38.3 years were included in this prospective study. They underwent reduction mammoplasty with inverted T scar and a combination of inferior pedicle and Würinger’s septum techniques. Resection weights, pre- and postoperative anthropometric measures were recorded. All patients were photographed at the follow-up visits and evaluated for complications if any, the nipple-areola complex (NAC) sensation, and subjective patient satisfaction using “The Breast Evaluation Questionnaire”. Results: The mean preoperative midclavicular point to nipple distance was 37.40 and 37.18 cm for the right and left breasts, respectively. The mean resection weight was 1270 and 1242 g from the right and left sides, respectively. None of our patients experienced NAC necrosis, while 2 breasts had minor wound dehiscence treated conservatively. After a mean follow-up period of 12 months, the NAC descended by an average of 1.40 cm, the distance from the IMF to nipple had an average increase of 2.24 cm, and all of patients were satisfied with the esthetic outcomes and convinced with their breast shape. Conclusion: The upper footprint dependent nipple position seems to have a real role in preventing high-riding nipple after breast reduction in hypertrophic and gigantomastic breasts. Moreover, it can be applied easily and allow for more satisfying outcomes than other methods for setting the new nipple position.