Our Experiences With Bi-Planar Mastopexy-Augmentation

Aims: By observing some restrictions with the widely performed mastopexy-augmentation operation solely involving the subglandular plane, we modified the method into a two-plane intervention in a number of selected cases. In this retrospective clinical study, we aimed to share our experiences with single stage bi-planar mas-topexy-augmentation. Methods: We performed a vertical mammoplasty and dissected both the subglandular plane, to fix the glandular tissue to a higher pectoral fascial level, and the submuscular plane to insert the implant. Additionally, we utilized either the superior-median dermofat or the dermoglandular flap to cover the implants completely or incom- pletely, aiming for a more stabilized vertical closure. The results were assessed retrospectively and statistically. Results: Thirty-six cases (72 breasts) were included in the study. The average age was 42 years and the average follow-up period was 13 months. The mean sizes of the implants were 211.81±67.48cc for the right breasts and 213.19±66.41cc for the left breasts. Twenty-eight cases (77.78%) were classified as primary and the remaining eight (22.22%) as secondary. Revision operations were demanded in five (13.89%) cases, three (10.71%) in the primary and two (25%) in the secondary group. Postoperative complications were observed in 50% of the study population and also 50% of each group. However, whereas all complications were identified as major in the secondary group, only three cases (10.71%) of major complications were reported in the primary group. There was a significant statistical relationship between the grade of ptosis and minor complications (for which the grade 3 ptosis group was responsible). Problems due to previous breast operations of the secondary group were significantly correlated with the major problems in our study population. However, the grade of ptosis, implant volume, and previous mastopexy-aug- mentation operation were not related with the revision operations and postoperative complications. it is feasible to per- form bi-planar mastopexy-augmentation to overcome the limitations of the widely performed one-plane method. However, potential postoperative complications should be taken into consideration and more caution in secondary cases is needed due to higher complication rates.