title: A new simple technique to correct nipple inversion using 2 V-Y advancement flaps.
abstract: Nipple inversion is a particular condition characterized by shorter galactophorous ducts, periductal fibrosis, and lack of soft tissue under the nipple base. It can be congenital or acquired, and it affects about 10% of the female population. Many operative techniques have been described seeking to correct this deformity, but a unique landmark strategy does not exist yet. Although acceptable results have been reported, every surgical technique has its drawbacks. We describe our 5 years' experience in correcting inverted nipples by using a simple personal approach. Between January 2004 and January 2009, we treated 52 patients presenting with nipple inversion using 2 V-Y dermoglandular flaps performed in the dermoglandular portion of the nipple. This method is effective in the correction of moderate and severe inverted nipple deformities. Follow-up period ranged from 1 to 6 years. Results showed recurrence in 1 case and postoperative complications in 3 patients. The authors have found this to be an ideal procedure for correcting inverted nipple; the use of an easy to perform V-Y flap ensures nipple protrusion and support, lactation, and minimal scars.
authors.affiliation: Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Campus Bio-Medico di Roma University, Via A. del Portillo 200, 00128 Rome, Italy.
authors.forename: Paolo
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Persichetti
authors.forename: Igor
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Poccia
authors.forename: Tiziano
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Pallara
authors.forename: Pietro Francesco
authors.initials: PF
authors.lastname: Delle Femmine
authors.forename: Giovanni Francesco
authors.initials: GF
authors.lastname: Marangi
mesh_terms: D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D016462:Mammaplasty / Q000379:methods*; D009558:Nipples / Q000002:abnormalities / Q000601:surgery*; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D016896:Treatment Outcome