Delayed two-stage nipple sparing mastectomy and simultaneous expander-to-implant reconstruction of the large and ptotic breast

Background: Large and ptotic breasts are considered an anatomical contraindication for nipple sparing mastectomy (NSM). Necrosis rates can be as high as 76%. The authors examined whether targeted preshaping mastopexy/reduction combined with simultaneous two-stage preshaping of the implant pocket prepares for an uneventful implant reconstruction. Methods: Macromastia and ptosis patients opting for risk-reducing NSM or having a peripherally localized carcinoma in situ, were offered a two-stage mastopexy/reduction simultaneously with preshaping of the implant pocket by subpectoral expansion. Only the inferior pedicle bearing the nipple-areola complex (NAC), remained. A delayed secondary NSM and tissue expander-to-implant reconstruction was scheduled 3 months later. The use of an acellular dermal matrix (ADM) was not necessary because the capsule around the expander created a hammock supporting the definite prosthesis. Follow up was at 2 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months. Results: Forty-one procedures were performed in 24 patients. The mean age was 45 +/- 12.08 (range, 22 to 72) years. Patients' mean body mass index (BMI) was 26.79 (range, 19 to 35) kg/m2. One patient had diabetes and two smoked. One transient epidermolysis of the NAC occurred in each stage. No NAC or skin necrosis occurred; no implant had to be removed. Conclusions: A two-stage mastopexy/reduction, simultaneously with preshaping of the implant pocket by tissue expansion and followed by a 3-month delayed secondary NSM with tissue expander-to-implant reconstruction is a safe technique in large ptotic breasts.