Vertical scar reduction mammaplasty as a standard procedure – experiences in the introduction and validation of a modified reduction technique

Based on experiences with a modified vertical scar reduction mammaplasty technique over a 5-year-period, this article discusses the results obtained and complications encountered with this technique. From 1991 to 1995, 628 reduction procedures were performed using a single vertical scar technique in 228 patients. The percentage of procedures with the new technique increased from 17.4% in 1991 to 89% in 1995. There was an increase in the mean reduction weight from 528 to 1313 g (mean 1028 g, 260–3300 g). Sixty-eight percent of patients (n=154) underwent follow-up examinations at 3 and 12 months postoperatively. The complication rate including perioperative and post-discharge problems was 40.2%. Complications occurring as a result of the procedure included an excessively long vertical scar (13%), skin redundancy in the submammary fold (15%) and wound dehiscences (10%). Minor corrective surgery was carried out in 38 patients. The modified vertical scar reduction mammaplasty technique may be considered a safe standard procedure for almost all breast sizes.