title: The 4-flap Jester's Hat Technique for Nipple Reduction.
abstract: Macrothelia, or nipple hypertrophy, is a condition that may cause severe psychological distress to those who suffer from it. Although effective in their primary goal of reducing nipple diameter and projection, previously reported techniques in nipple reduction suffer from imperfect aesthetic outcomes with noticeable scarring patterns, anatomically anomalous shape, and a smoothing of the natural ruffles of the nipple. We propose a simple technique to nipple reduction that improves upon previous techniques and creates a more naturally appearing nipple. A 4-flap technique resembling a jester's hat is described whereby suture lines are concealed within the central nipple to recreate the naturally ruffled appearance of a native nipple. Four patients have undergone this technique at a single institution with 100% patient satisfaction and no postoperative complications. Nipple sensation was maintained in all patients postoperatively. A 4-flap nipple reduction technique is a viable alternative to previously described techniques, which may offer more anatomically congruent results.
authors.affiliation: Department of Plastic Surgery, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, D.C.
authors.forename: James M
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Economides
authors.affiliation: Department of Plastic Surgery, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, D.C.
authors.forename: Troy A
authors.initials: TA
authors.lastname: Pittman