De-epithelialized dermal barrier for a safe immediate prosthetic breast reconstruction post circumvertical skin sparing/reducing mastectomy (SSM/SRM)

Background: Skin-sparing mastectomy (SSM) and skin-reducing mastectomy (SRM) with immediate breast reconstruction (IBR) is oncologically safe and has become increasingly popular as an effective treatment for patients with early stage breast cancer requiring mastectomy. Cosmetic appearance following IBR depends largely on the location of the skin incision, the quantity of breast skin left as well as the pocket for prosthetic placement, whether submuscular, subcutaneous, or both. SRM with Le Jour pattern skin excision has already been described in conjunction with autogenous tissue reconstruction. This technique is not recommended for implant-based IBR because any compromise of skin viability can result in exposure of the implant or expander. Methods: We propose SRM with a circumvertical skin excision pattern and IBR comprising a de-epithelialized dermal barrier to reinforce the vertical suture line. We performed this technique on 10 breast cancer patients. Results: Eight patients underwent SSM with IBR using textured anatomical cohesive gel implants. One patient had Becker tear drop implants for both breasts (right SSM with IBR, and delayed left breast reconstruction); and the last patient had completion mastectomies with IBR using Becker tear drop implants. None of the patients developed complications. Conclusion: This technique is reliable and safe for implant-based IBR, ensuring minimal scarring and pleasing aesthetic results. Level of Evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study. © 2012 Springer-Verlag.