Circular local skin flap. A new approach to areola reconstruction.
OBJECTIVE
Despite the numerous surgical options available today for nipple-areola reconstruction, the results are often unsatisfactory. The present study proposes a simple and efficient method for areola reconstruction that uses a circular local skin flap.


METHODS
We prospectively followed five patients that underwent areola reconstruction using a circular local skin flap. A circle, approximately 5 cm in diameter, was marked on the desired area for the new areola. A thin centripetal undermining of 1.5-2 cm was performed, which created a flap with a central pedicle of approximately 1-2 cm. After hemostasis, the thin flap was fixed in its former position with continuous sutures.


RESULTS
The mean procedure time was 20 minutes (+/-9). The postoperative results were classified as satisfactory by four of the five patients at six months postoperative. Due to superficial undermining, the resulting scar resembled the appearance of the transition from the mammary skin to the areola. Dermopigmentation was only required in one areola. No complications such as dehiscence, necrosis, hematoma, or infection occurred.


CONCLUSIONS
This technique achieved satisfactory results with low morbidity and few complications, and is thus a potentially promising resource for areola reconstruction.
Oliveira
Marcelo de
Md
Carlos Chagas Post-Graduate Medical Institute, PUCRJ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. dr.macelo.oliveira@hotmail.com
Nunes
Daniel
D
Beolchi
Mirta
M
Vargas
André
A
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016462:Mammaplasty / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D008875:Middle Aged; D009558:Nipples / Q000601:surgery*; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011184:Postoperative Period; D011446:Prospective Studies; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D016896:Treatment Outcome