Septum-based mammaplasty: a surgical technique based on Würinger's septum for breast reduction.
BACKGROUND
During the past 7 years, the senior author (M.H.) has been performing septum-based mammaplasty. The aim of this article is to report the safety and ease of breast shaping by using this technique.


METHODS
A series of 110 consecutive patients underwent septum-based breast reduction performed by a single surgeon. This technique uses a lateral or medial pedicle based on Würinger's horizontal septum, which carries the main nerve supply to the nipple in addition to intercostal perforators.


RESULTS
Mean nipple-to-sternal notch distance was 33 cm (range, 22 to 45 cm). Mean resection was 658 g (range, 160 to 1980 g). Nipple elevation was 9 cm on average (range, 3 to 17 cm). A retroareolar hematoma occurred in three breasts. Total areola necrosis occurred in one breast (0.5 percent) as a result of an infection in a diabetic patient. Limited wound dehiscence occurred in 15 breasts (7.7 percent). A secondary scar revision was needed in 10 patients (9 percent). One patient required a revision.


CONCLUSIONS
Based on a well-vascularized and constant anatomical septum, a septum-based pedicle is safe, even in large breasts. This technique is safe and demonstrates ease of pedicle shaping and breast remodeling in patients undergoing reduction mammaplasty.
Hamdi
Moustapha
M
Gent, Belgium From the Plastic Surgery Department, Ghent University Hospital, and the Coupure Centrum for Plastic Surgery.
Van Landuyt
Koenraad
K
Tonnard
Patrick
P
Verpaele
Alex
A
Monstrey
Stan
S
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002921:Cicatrix; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D016462:Mammaplasty / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000379:methods*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009558:Nipples / Q000294:innervation / Q000601:surgery; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D013529:Surgical Wound Dehiscence; D055815:Young Adult