Abstract
Introduction. The success of breast reconstruction is highly dependent on the aesthetic outcome. Merely restoring breast volume does not guarantee patient satisfaction. The degree of symmetry achieved between the reconstructed and the contralateral (healthy) breast is a significant contributing factor. Therefore, achieving optimal symmetry remains a central goal in reconstructive breast surgery.
Aim. To objectively evaluate the symmetry outcomes of the reconstructed breast relative to the healthy breast based on the technique used for inframammary fold (IMF) reconstruction, and to assess the impact on patients' quality of life (QoL).
Materials and Methods. The study included 193 patients who underwent two-stage breast reconstruction. The IMF was reconstructed at the second stage, during the exchange of a tissue expander for a permanent implant. Patients were categorized into three groups based on the specific surgical technique used for IMF formation.
Results. The degree of postoperative symmetry was comparable across all study groups in patients requiring reconstruction without ptosis, i.e., with an obtuse thoraco-mammary angle. In cases requiring reconstruction of a ptotic breast (with an acute thoraco-mammary angle), the highest degree of symmetry was achieved using a technique that involved utilizing the posterior capsule of the implant for fold reconstruction.
Conclusion. Breast reconstruction should be considered not only as a restoration of lost tissue volume, but primarily as the recreation of an anatomically correct and aesthetically pleasing breast shape. Particular attention should be paid to the correct formation of the inframammary fold and the corresponding thoraco-mammary angle, as these anatomical features critically determine the final aesthetic outcome and the extent of improvement in patients' quality of life following breast cancer surgery.
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