"Over 10 years follow-up experience after inverted T superior pedicle breast reduction with modified Ribeiro flap".

Abstract

Background: Several techniques have been developed to address cases of macromastia. The primary objective remains achieving optimal aesthetic outcomes while reducing breast volume, but concerns persist regarding the stability of results over time. In particular, as far as the superior pedicle T-inverted breast reduction with an inferiorly based dermal flap is concerned, long-term reported results stop at five years follow-up. This work investigates the outcome of this over 10 years follow-up, considering intrinsic and extrinsic factors that may contribute to ptosis recurrence.

Methods: A total of 70 patients were included and examined in a long-term consultation, more than 10 years post-operation. Physical measures, including standard breast distances and skin distension test (SDT) for elasticity assessment, and BREAST-Q scores, were collected at time of consultation and compared to preoperative and intraoperative data.

Results: Our study's sample shows a mean age of 42 years. Mean follow-up is 13 years, with 18 years as the longest follow-up registered. Mean breast tissue volume removed is 1134 g. A positive correlation between smoking habit and inferior pole elongation is shown (p = 0.031), and between smoking habit and inferior pole skin distension (p=0.002). A significative positive correlation between age and almost all the BREAST-Q scales score is reported.Smoking patients had a higher SN-N distance variation over time and superior pole skin distension.

Conclusions: Intrinsic and extrinsic factors may affect outcome and satisfaction irrespective of the age. This versatile procedure demonstrates reliability across time offering enduring results.