Scientific article
OA Policy
English

Beyond the T-junction : Reinforce strategic sites in superomedial pedicle mammoplasties using a dual dermal flap technique

Published inJPRAS open, vol. 46, p. 551-558
Publication date2025-12
First online date2025-09-20
Abstract

Introduction: Breast reduction using superior or superomedial pedicles provides favorable long-term aesthetic outcomes, particularly regarding breast shape and projection. However, wound dehiscence remains a concern at the T-junction and the vertical-areolar junction, with reported rates ranging from 4 % to 20 %, contributing to a higher postoperative burden, suboptimal aesthetic results, and increased healthcare costs. The development of preventive techniques is a key aspect as scar quality is considered one of the most important factors by patients. Only a few techniques in the literature describe using dermal flaps at high-tension sites to reduce tension and provide additional support and blood supply.

Materials and methods: : A literature review was performed via PubMed using the terms "dermal flap," "dermo-glandular flaps," "de-epithelialized flaps," "breast reduction," "mammoplasty," "scar dehiscence," and "scar complication." We then present a modification of the superomedial pedicle technique that includes two small semi-circular de-epithelialized dermal flaps placed at the T-junction and the vertical-areolar junction. These aim to offload tension and reinforce vascular support at high-risk sites.

Results: Three studies described dermal flap use at the T-junction, reporting a reduction in scar-related complications from 4.3 % to 1.4-2.9 %. However, none addressed the vertical-areolar junction. Our technique is, to our knowledge, the first to reinforce both areas simultaneously.

Conclusion: We propose a simple modification to the standard technique using small dermal flaps at strategic points to reinforce T-inverted scars for superomedial and superior pedicles. Building on previous studies, This approach aims to enhance healing and reduce complications without increasing operative time.

Keywords
  • Breast reduction
  • Dermal flap
  • Reduction mammoplasty
  • Superior pedicle
  • Superomedial pedicle
  • Wound dehiscence
Citation (ISO format)
DOGNY, Clélia Laura et al. Beyond the T-junction : Reinforce strategic sites in superomedial pedicle mammoplasties using a dual dermal flap technique. In: JPRAS open, 2025, vol. 46, p. 551–558. doi: 10.1016/j.jpra.2025.09.008
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Article (Published version)
Identifiers
Journal ISSN2352-5878
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47downloads

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