Reelevating the Mastectomy Flap: A Safe Technique for Improving Nipple-Areolar Complex Malposition after Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy

Summary: Nipple-areolar complex (NAC) malposition is one of the most common complications following nipple-sparing mastectomy with implant-based reconstruction. To maximize perfusion to the NAC, traditional methods of correcting NAC malposition limit undermining below the NAC. We demonstrate a series of cases in which improvement of NAC malposition was safely performed by reelevating the NAC and mastectomy flap to allow redraping of the soft tissue envelope over the implant and the overlying capsule. Thirty-four patients were identified in a span over 4 years where 44 NACs were repositioned using this method. There was zero incidence of postoperative ischemia or necrosis of the NAC or mastectomy flaps. There was noticeable improvement in the NAC position on the breast mound. Reelevation of the mastectomy skin flap to correct malposition of the NAC after nipple-sparing mastectomy is a safe and effective option, avoids additional scars, and can be performed more than once to further improve positioning of the NAC.

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