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3D Analysis of Breast Morphological Changes after Vertical-Scar Reduction Mammoplasty: A Prospective Study

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  • Breast Surgery
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Abstract

Background

In addition to symptom relief, the crucial objective of reduction mammoplasty is to achieve a stable and esthetically pleasing postoperative breast shape. However, the morphological changes in breasts following reduction mammoplasty have not been comprehensively understood. In this study, we applied three-dimensional (3D) scanning technology for long-term follow-up monitoring of breast morphological changes to discern their changing trends. Our goal was to provide a reliable basis for assessing postoperative effects and determining follow-up time points.

Methods

This prospective study included patients undergoing vertical-scar reduction mammoplasty. We utilized a combination of linear measurements and 3D scanning to measure various parameters, including breast volume, breast volume distribution, nipple position, and scar length at various time points: pre-surgery, immediately post-surgery, 3-month postoperative, 6-month postoperative, and 1-year postoperative.

Results

A total of 115 patients were enrolled in this study. Throughout the initial 3 months of postoperative follow-up, there was a gradual reduction in breast volume, which tended to stabilize from 3 to 12 months. The nipple position showed a gradual shift both laterally, inferiorly, and posteriorly. The volume of the lower and lateral part of the breast increased gradually. Notably, at 1 year after surgery, the scar length was approximately 6.3% shorter compared to the immediate postoperative measurement.

Conclusions

Our 3D analysis unveiled comprehensive changes in breast morphology: The overall breast volume shifted laterally and inferiorly, the nipple position moved laterally, inferiorly, and posteriorly, and there was a significant reduction in scar length. Concurrently, breast volume exhibited a gradual decrease and stabilization after 3 months, establishing it as a suitable follow-up point for assessing postoperative results. Additionally, surgical plans can be formulated based on the overall trend of changes in breast volume and distribution, combined with methods such as three-dimensional scanning, to enhance surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Level of Evidence IV

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Breast Plastic Surgery, Plastic Surgery Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 33 Badachu Road, Shijingshan District, Beijing, 100144, People’s Republic of China

    Haoran Li, Yan Lin, Xiaoyu Zhang, Zhengyao Li & Dali Mu

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  1. Haoran Li
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  2. Yan Lin
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  3. Xiaoyu Zhang
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  4. Zhengyao Li
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  5. Dali Mu
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Correspondence to Dali Mu.

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All procedures performed in studies involving human participants were in accordance with the ethical standards of the institutional and/or national research committee and with the 1964 Helsinki declaration and its later amendments or comparable ethical standards.

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Li, H., Lin, Y., Zhang, X. et al. 3D Analysis of Breast Morphological Changes after Vertical-Scar Reduction Mammoplasty: A Prospective Study. Aesth Plast Surg (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00266-024-03985-4

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