Two innovations of the star-flap technique for nipple reconstruction.
Two innovations of the star-flap technique for nipple reconstruction are described. A combination of the star-flap technique and a contralateral nipple graft is indicated in patients with a large nipple and small areola on the contralateral side. It provides sufficient volume for the new nipple and improves the shape of the donor nipple. A combination of the star-flap technique and a banked costal-cartilage graft offers better nipple contour and projection than the conventional star-flap technique. Preparation of the cartilage graft is easy and does not result in additional scarring; the nipple projection can be expected to be maintained over a long period.
Yamamoto
Y
Y
Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.
Furukawa
H
H
Oyama
A
A
Horiuchi
K
K
Funayama
E
E
Tsutsumida
A
A
Sugihara
T
T
Nohira
K
K
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D016462:Mammaplasty / Q000379:methods*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009558:Nipples / Q000601:surgery* / Q000637:transplantation; D013524:Surgical Flaps