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BACKGROUND Herniated or pseudoherniated nipple-areolar complex (NAC), also called protuberant or "domed nipple," is an entity that can be present both in males and females and represents a therapeutic challenge. It can be an isolated deformity, but in most cases is found within another breast deformity, such as tuberous breast or can appear following pregnancy. Its diagnosis and appropriate treatment become important when patients search for correctional breast surgery. OBJECTIVE To review some common techniques for the treatment of tuberous breasts that address the nipple-areola problem as well, but also to present our experience with some newer and less invasive surgical techniques that could be useful for isolated treatment of herniated or pseudoherniated nipple. METHOD We performed a retrospective study that included all patients operated from December 2013 to December 2018. We reviewed existing techniques which in addition to our personal experience helped us to create an algorithm to assist surgeons in this matter. RESULTS A total of 125 patients with herniated or pseudoherniated NAC were treated. There were 87 women and 38 men. The average age of the patients was 30, 8 ± 8.1 years (ranging from 20 to 63). We analyzed the results of four following techniques: periareolar mastopexy (52 patients), release of fibrous tissue in combination with lipofilling (19 patients), resection of herniated breast tissue (23 patients) or controlled electrocoagulation of relaxed erectile muscle (31 patients). The minimum follow-up for all cases was 4 months. CONCLUSION The achievement of a successful aesthetic result is possible in a single-stage procedure with initial surgery. It depends on careful individual preoperative evaluation of anatomical features and a surgical approach chosen accordingly. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine Ratings, please refer to Table of Contents or online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.

In the surgical correction of tuberous breast deformity, implants and regional flaps play a prominent role. Lately, fat grafting has been used as an alternative, but there is evidence that patient satisfaction is higher after correction with implants compared with lipofilling. We report a tuberous breasts correction series of ten cases, enrolled between 2015 and 2018. Percutaneous fasciotomies and fat grafting were performed by the Body-Jet technique. Analysis of outcomes was undertaken with BREAST-Q surveys. The breast satisfaction scores increased from 0 to 75 (p < 0.01), the psychological well-being scores from 20 to 70 (p < 0.01) and the sexual well-being scores from 18.5 to 58 (p = 0.02), while the physical well-being scores remained stable (from 68 to 63, p = 0.2). The median outcome satisfaction score was 86. Scores of patient-reported outcomes after lipofilling can reach and even exceed those of patients corrected with implants, at the cost of more interventions. Fat grafting is beginning to establish itself as a true alternative in the treatment of tuberous breast deformity in patients with the appropriate fat deposits. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine Ratings, please refer to Table of Contents or online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Background A good inframammary fold (IMF) definition and position is essential to achieve a satisfactory and natural result in breast surgery. This structure can be damaged, especially during mastectomies. Multiple methods are reported in the literature to restore IMF or improve its definition. In this study, we present the results achieved in a series of patients treated with subdermal liposuction. Methods We report on all our patients who underwent IMF liposuction between January 2016 and June 2020. Subdermal liposuction was performed with a blunt 3 mm cannula along the new IMF to promote skin retraction and adherence between skin and fascia. Results were evaluated subjectively by the patients and objectively by 8 individuals not involved with the treatment. Results We performed IMF liposuction in 88 breasts (69 patients), aged 21–74 (mean 52) years for 82 implant-based reconstructions, 2 tuberous breasts, and 4 contralateral breast augmentations. Mean follow-up was 28 months (6–64). Subjective results: the overall result evaluated with the VAS scale reached 86.6/100. All the 22 patients interviewed judged as well defined the new inframammary fold. Objective results: in 83% of cases the definition of the inframammary fold was judged as good or excellent, while symmetry with contralateral IMF, natural appearance, and overall aesthetic outcome were judged as good. Conclusion Based on our long-term satisfactory results, we recommend the technique of subdermal liposuction to improve the definition of IMF in breast reconstruction after mastectomy and other breast procedures. It is effective, easy to perform, minimally invasive, and durable. Level of Evidence IV This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each submission to which Evidence-Based Medicine rankings are applicable. This excludes Review Articles, Book Reviews, and manuscripts that concern Basic Science, Animal Studies, Cadaver Studies, and Experimental Studies. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.

Tuberous breasts are a congenital anomaly in which the breasts fail to develop normally. This abnormality may include hypoplasia, a tubular appearance, a higher inframammary fold (IMF), and sometimes a herniated nipple-areolar complex. Correction of tuberous breast deformity (TBD) is traditionally done with a 1-stage breast augmentation with radial scoring of the constricted breast tissue and/or the lowering of the IMF. An alternative 2-stage approach first uses a tissue expander to correct the deformity; the expander is later replaced with a permanent breast implant. Sixteen patients are presented in which a 1-stage correction of TBD was successfully accomplished with saline implants acting as tissue expanders. In all cases, the expansion remedied the deformity without the need for radial scoring of the breast tissue or lowering of the IMF. This approach has not been reported in the literature. Sixteen women (32 breasts) were treated, with TBD ranging from mild to severe. All patients had a breast augmentation with round, smooth saline implants placed through an IMF incision in the dual plane (partially subpectoral and partially submammary). Implants ranged in size from 225 cc to 675 cc. The IMF was never lowered and the breast parenchyma was never radially scored. Three patients had asymmetry requiring breast implants of different sizes, and one had a circumareolar mastopexy to repair a herniated areolar complex. Representative case examples are provided. The average follow-up time was 9 months. All deformities were corrected, and the patients expressed satisfaction with their results. There were no occurrences of hematoma, infection, capsular contracture, or malposition. This review has shown that saline breast implants alone, with their inherent expansion capability, can correct TBD without the increased morbidity associated with radial scoring and lowering the IMF. For patients who choose saline implants, this single-stage, less invasive surgical approach can provide a good aesthetic result.

In patients with short nipple to inframammary fold (N-IMF) distance, as in tuberous breast, the cohesivity and gel distribution of shaped implants work as a controlled tissue expander, progressively adapting the tissues to the implant's shape. This phenomenon translates into a gradual increase of the N-IMF distance over time, but the true extent to which this occurs has not been quantified to date. This study aims to quantify the postoperative variation of the N-IMF distance in tuberous breast treated with shaped cohesive silicone breast implants.We did a retrospective review of a prospective maintained database of all consecutive patients with bilateral Groulleau I and II tuberous breasts who underwent primary breast augmentation between April 2017 and May 2018 at our institution. To quantify the lower mammary pole's morphological changes, we evaluated the N-IMF distance under maximal stretch as an endpoint. We recorded this value at time 0 (preoperative), immediate post-op (equivalent to the distance planned preoperatively) and at month 1, month 6 and 1-year post-op. Then we calculated the average N-IMF distance variation of our sample of patients with a 99% interval of confidence for each breast obtained. Comparisons were performed using the Sign test and the Mann-Whitney U test.The average implant weight was 353g (range 290-450; SD ±46.147). Of the 54 breasts analyzed, the immediate post-op N-IMF distance was on average 2.43 cm longer than the preop IMF with a 99% confidence interval between 2.01 and 2.86 and SD of ±1.22. The mean difference between the preop N-IMF distance and after 1, 6 and 12 months was respectively 2.78 cm (SD,1.56) (99% CI, 2.24-3.34), 3.08 cm (SD, 1.57) (99% CI, 2.53-3.64), and 3.36 (1.55) (99% CI, 2.82-3.91) Comparing immediate postoperative nipple to inframammary fold distance (N-IMF) to the 1, 6 and 12 months N-IMF values, an average of 4.23% (CI 1.3-7.16), 7.74% (CI 4.25-11.23) and 10.84% (CI 7.21-14.49) of skin length, was gained respectively. According to implants' weight, subgroup analysis showed that implants400 g were associated with significantly higher N-IMF distance increase (p0.05) compared to implants400 g.Our findings suggest that a significant progressive postoperative increase in N-IMF distance should be expected in all cases of tuberous breast augmentation with anatomical implants over a 1 year period. This aspect may have an important implication on the IMF incision and the new fold position preoperative planning. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV.

Background: Patients with tuberous breasts suffer ofpsychosocial problems which may be aggravated with presenceof asymmetry. Plastic surgeons should fully understand thedevelopmental and anatomical basis of such deformity. Thesurgical plan is individualized according to the severity ofdeformity, presence of ptosis and degree of asymmetry. Inthis study we aim to correct the whole pathology and improvebreast aesthetics in patients with bilateral asymmetric tuberousbreasts.Methods: 8 female patients with bilateral asymmetrictuberous breasts presented to outpatient clinic. Breast examinationand measurements were done. Surgical correction withperiareolar mastopexy and differential augmentation mammoplastywere done in all cases.Results: Patients' mean age was (28.7) years. All patientshad asymmetric breasts as regards; tuberous type, breastvolume, projection, areola diameter, nipple and areolar complexposition and degree of ptosis. Postoperatively, tuberous deformitywas corrected in all cases. Good symmetry, andenhancement of breast volume and projection with naturallylookingbreasts are achieved. Intermammary distance wastremendously decreased. Seven patients were highly satisfied,(87.5%) one patient (12.5%) as only satisfied.Conclusion: Periareolar mastopexy approach, efficientrelease of constricting ring, repositioning of inframammarycrease and differential breast augmentation are keys to achievethe best possible aesthetic outcome in managing tuberousbreast asymmetry.“Level of Evidence: Level IV”.

Background Improving the ptotic breast with mastopexy and restoring upper pole fullness with augmentation continues to be a challenging issue for plastic surgeons. Autologous fat grating (AFG) for shaping and contouring of implant augmented breasts has shown positive outcomes with few complications. Objectives The objective of this study was to evaluate our experience with combined mastopexy and fat grafting for women with existing breast ptosis who prefer not to receive prosthetic breast implants but do desire volume enhancement. Methods A retrospective review of patients undergoing a single staged mastopexy with AFG, from 2006 to 2017, was performed. Inclusion criteria were women with breast ptosis or tuberous breasts desiring improved breast shape and volume. Patients were excluded if they were undergoing implant removal before the procedure. Clinical aesthetic outcomes were assessed by fellow plastic surgeons according to the Telemark Breast Scoring system. Results A total of 284 breasts, in 140 women, underwent a single staged mastopexy with AFG. The mean amount of fat grafted per breast was 299.4 mL (range, 50-710 mL). There were no surgical site infections, hematomas, or seromas. There were 3 major and 8 minor (0.06%) postoperative breast complications. A total of 13 plastic surgeons, of the 183 invited (7.1%), completed the breast outcomes survey. Regarding each category, there was significant improvement (P ≤ 0.0001) in upper pole fullness, ptosis, overall aesthetics, and symmetry postoperatively. Conclusions AFG combined with mastopexy is not associated with significant postoperative complications and results in excellent breast aesthetic outcomes. Level of Evidence: 4

The breast is one of the leading organs treated by plastic surgeons for many purposes, such as correction of malformations (breast asymmetries, stenotic and tuberous breasts, Poland syndrome, etc), postoncological reconstruction (breast reconstruction after mastectomy or lumpectomy) and aesthetic/degenerative corrections (hypotrophy, hypertrophy, age-related problems, and postsurgical deformities). The surgical goals of these procedures are as follows: new pleasant breast cone; nipple–areola complex (NAC) survival and correct positioning at the centre of the breast cone; stable results throughout time; minimal scars. The desire to correct the shape, ptosis, hypo/hypertrophy, and any type of breast malformation using periareolar approach is long-standing. Hollander1 pioneered a technique to lift up the areola with skin excision in the supra-areolar area (“crescent technique”). However, it was Hinderer2 who first described the “doughnut mastopexy” and periareolar dermopexy with retromammary mastopexy (only the periareolar epidermis was removed and not full-thickness skin). These techniques were improved by Andrews3 for small volume breast reduction and Bartels4 for mastopexy in breast augmentation. Erol5 adopted a periareolar breast reshaping by leaving a central pedicle, undermining the superficial fascia, with no detachment of the gland from the muscle. A significant improvement for the evolution of the periareolar technique was the introduction of the purse-string (or round-block suture) by Peled,6 even though Benelli7,8 introduced the modern concept of round-block suture for the correction of small to moderate ptosis, reduction of the areolar diameter, and closure of the two periareolar circles in a concentric fashion. Peixoto,9 Felicio,10 Toledo,11 Goes,12 Spear,13 Ersek,14 Martins,15 and Hinderer16 added interesting contributes by using different breast remodeling and resection. Wilkinson17 proposed the “double Benelli stitch.” Robles18 introduced the concept of periareolar suture with a straight needle and an areolar sizer. Bustos19 suggested the use of a silicone sheet around the gland, anchoring it to the anterior pectoralis muscle fascia for better stabilization, followed by Goes,20 who performed a periareolar access with a polyglactine or mixed mesh as a support. Hammond21,22 described the interlocked suture with particular inferior pedicle. Our group made a significant contribution in 2016, extending the periareolar approach to all breast resections in oncoplastic surgery,23 and subsequently for the treatment of stenotic and tuberous breast.24,25 Despite all the valuable contributions described above, the periareolar approach still presents three main problems: late widening of the areolar diameter due to suture tension and hypertrophic/wide scars; flattening of the breast cone; postoperative ptosis relapse. Today these three issues have almost been solved. The purpose of the present article is to show how the periareolar approach, with a good patient selection, can be applied to different situations, leading to excellent results. Exceptions of the described technique are severe hypertrophies/ptosis or inelastic skin, where a T-inverted or L-scar is preferred. On the basis of previous works and the most recent developments, we think that the treatment of multiple mammary conditions with the periareolar approach can now be judged satisfying.

Background: Periareolar augmentation mastopexy is one of the most demanded operations at Plastic Surgery clinics. Nevertheless, it is one of the leads of malpractice claims in United States caused by the high patient expectations and the standard surgical techniques which may result in common complications. The aim of this report is to present a new surgical approach to solve these complications. Methods: After establishing a working hypothesis, we performed a revision study of our patients and we came to the following conclusion: in order to perform a periareolar mastopexy for ptosis correction, breast has to be tuberous at any level and to have abnormally short inferior pole. These findings may explain the main complications from periareolar augmentation mastopexy with the standard surgical techniques. Consequently, we started a prospective observational study including 56 patients following a new surgical technique which deals the cases as tuberous breasts. Results: During three years, fifty-six periareolar mastopexies were performed with this new surgical approach with one year follow-up. No major complications were observed and 40 of the patients (71%) described the results as very positive. Conclusion: “If a periareolar mastopexy can be performed, then it must be a tuberous breast”. According to this, a new surgical technique for periareolar augmentation mastopexy has been developed obtaining an improvement in our surgical results and achieving a totally different view on this pathology, which has not been reported in literature yet.

Poland syndrome is associated with varying degrees of thoracic abnormalities and malformations of the upper limbs. The pathognomonic anomaly is agenesis of the sternocostal fibers of the pectoralis major [1]. Breast asymmetry occurs frequently in women [2] but the rate of hand malformations varies widely [3]. Poland syndrome is a rare malformation, as the incidence is estimated at only 1 per 30,000 births [4]. There appears to be a male predominance (3:1), and the majority of studies attest to lateralization of Poland syndrome on the right side. The etiology of the syndrome remains unknown but a vascular origin, as supported by Bavinck and Weaver [5], could explain the existence of associated syndromes (pectus, tuberous breasts).

Introduction: Many techniques that involve making an incision only around the areola have been developed to minimalize scarring in mammaplasties. We use the periareolar mammoplasty approach as the first choice in all our mammaplasties, both reduction mastopexy or breast increases with prosthesis. Method: Because of the postoperative characteristics observed, the side approach is used in most cases, but we believe that it is formally indicated for breasts with mild ptosis and with tuberous breasts characteristics, with or without the use of implants. We show through the case studies and professional opinions why in our personal experience of periareolar breast lift it is not the primary indication in all cases. This approach is rather only indicated for selected cases, which will be shown below. A review of our cases with photographic files of patients operated in our clinic over the years. Discussion: Enlargement of the areola, the nipple projection loss and flatness of the whole breast, most often are consequences of periareolar mammoplasty and a relapse of ptosis may occur. We believe that a consolidated statement regarding the periareolar approach is recommended for breasts with tuberous features, in addition to pseudoptosis or ptosis grade I Renault, in which cases periareolar mammoplasty is still our first-choice approach. Conclusion: We reduced the indication for mammoplasty with only a periareolar incision. We believe that it is necessary to combine a vertical scar and often a horizontal scar to make the correction. Today, in our experience, the indication for periareolar mammoplasty is considered for cases of tuberous breasts with enlarged areola, small ptosis, ptosis stage I, and pseudoptosis Renault classification, and in most cases is associated with the use of polyurethane-covered silicone gel implants.

Breast disorders are an important aspect of health care for adolescent females and this discussion presents principles for education and management of breast concerns as well as problems for this population of patients. Normal and abnormal breast development are considered. Breast pathology that is reviewed include congenital lesions as well as breast asymmetry, atrophy, tuberous breasts, fibroadenoma, cystosarcoma phyllodes, benign breast disease, mastalgia and other breast disorders.

Las mamas tuberosas, denominadas así por Rees y Aston, y también llamadas hernias del complejo areolar (Bass), Snoopy deformity (Gruber), mamas tubulares (Williams), hipoplasia del polo inferior (Brink) o mamas de base estrecha (Puckett), son una malformacion en el desarrollo del volumen mamario en los cuadrantes inferiores con hernia areolar secundaria (placa areolar y músculo mamilar débiles), areola ancha y protruida (en la mitad de los casos), ascenso del surco submamario, mamas hipotróficas y raramente hipertróficas, con asimetrías en las dos terceras partes de las pacientes. Presentamos la estrategia quirúrgica adecuada para resolver esta patología utilizando solo implantes anatómicos de gel cohesivo sin necesidad de tallar colgajos glandulares. De esta manera, disminuimos la morbilidad quirúrgica, ofreciendo resultados estables y con alta satisfaccion por parte de las pacientes.

Introduction: Tuberous breast is a rare malformation that has negative physical and psychological impacts during puberty. A range of surgical techniques has been used to correct breast shape and volume in this context, including a combination of skin plasty and mammary gland remodeling, as well as prostheses and locoregional flaps. The authors have used fat grafting as a complementary technique to correct tuberous breasts since 1998. Objectives: The authors discuss application of their lipomodeling technique for correction of tuberous breast deformity. Methods: The charts of tuberous breast patients treated consecutively over an 11-year period (n = 31) solely with fat grafting (ie, without using an implant) were retrospectively reviewed. Each breast deformation was graded according to the Grolleau classification. The number of sessions and the mean transfer of fat volume by lipomodeling session were recorded. Patient and surgeon satisfaction were evaluated. Results: Of the 31 patients in this series, 18 had bilateral formations and 13 had unilateral malformations. The mean patient age was 23 years, and the mean body mass index was 21.9. A single session (mean transfer volume, 158 mL; range, 90–253 mL) was required in 14 (45%) cases. A second session (mean transfer volume, 226 mL; range, 100–316 mL) was necessary in the remaining 55% of cases. Mean follow-up period after the last fat transfer session was 6.5 years (range, 1.5–11 years). Patients were very satisfied in 94% of cases (n = 29) and satisfied in 6% (n = 2). The surgical team rated 94% of cases as being successful or very successful. No complications were observed. One patient developed hypertrophy of the treated breast following weight gain and thus required breast reduction. Imaging performed preoperatively and 1 year postoperatively did not reveal any anomalies other than oil cysts. Conclusion: Fat grafting is a reliable technique that produces excellent results and high levels of patient satisfaction for the treatment of tuberous breast. The aesthetic outcome is natural, implant free, and long lasting. Level of Evidence: 4 ![Graphic][1] [1]: /embed/inline-graphic-1.gif

Breast augmentation in pediatric population is not commonly performed. Indications for augmentation mammaplasty in pediatric population are breast hypoplasia (unilateral and bilateral), breast deformity in Poland’s syndrome, tuberous breasts, and failure of breast development due to a trauma. Breast surgery for cosmetic reasons in pediatric population is quite controversial. These patients require detail anamnestic and psychological evaluation, thorough physical examination, and precise measurements. Plastic surgeon or pediatric plastic surgeon performed this operation in specific circumstances with the same principles as in adults. Breast augmentation in pediatric population requires that implants do not violate normal anatomic landmarks. The type of the incision, implant selection, and implant placement has to be carefully evaluated with the patient. Pediatric patients with breast augmentation have longer inhospital staying, and recovery also takes more time compared to adults.

Breast augmentation is among the most frequently performed cosmetic plastic surgeries. Providing patients with “realistic” 3D simulations of breast augmentation outcomes is becoming increasingly common. Until recently, such programs were costly and required significant equipment, training, and office space. New simple user-friendly cloud-based programs have been developed, but to date there remains a paucity of objective evidence comparing these 3D simulations with the post-operative outcomes. To determine the aesthetic similarity between pre-operative 3D simulation generated by Crisalix and real post-operative outcomes. A retrospective review of 20 patients receiving bilateral breast augmentation was conducted comparing 6-month post-operative outcomes with 3D simulation using Crisalix software. Similarities between post-operative and simulated images were measured by three attending plastic surgeons and ten plastic surgery residents using a series of parameters. Assessment reveals similarity between the 3D simulation and 6-month post-operative images for overall appearance, breast height, breast width, breast volume, breast projection, and nipple correction. Crisalix software generated more representative simulations for symmetric breasts than for tuberous or ptotic breasts. Comparison of overall aesthetic outcome to simulation showed that the post-operative outcome was more appealing for the symmetric and tuberous breasts and less appealing for the ptotic breasts. Our data suggest that Crisalix offers a good overall 3D simulated image of post-operative breast augmentation outcomes. Improvements to the simulation of the post-operative outcomes for ptotic and tuberous breasts would result in greater predictive capabilities of Crisalix. Collectively, Crisalix offers good predictive simulations for symmetric breasts. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors http://www.springer.com/00266 .

Treatment of tuberous breasts types 1 and 2 must deal with the problem of the pseudo-double bubble in the primitive inframammary fold and also must release the constrictive ring. Two techniques currently are used to overcome these problems, but neither is entirely satisfactory. The first technique, in which the approach is via the primitive inframammary fold, leaves significant scarring when the lower poles expand. The second technique, in which the approach is periareolar, considerably reduces the area's sensitivity. This report presents a new endoscopically assisted technique with an axillary approach designed to solve these problems.Between 2005 and 2010, 68 patients (ages 18-42 years) underwent surgery. The intervention was bilateral in 57 and unilateral in 11 of these patients. All cases involved tuberous breasts types 1 and 2 (Grolleau's classification). The augmentation involves a transaxillary subfascial endoscopic approach, opening of the fascia at the primitive inframammary fold, and releasing of the constricting ring to enable the breast to expand, followed by implantation of an anatomic prosthesis to add volume to the lower quadrants. If the pseudo-double bubble appears, fat grafting is applied during the same surgical procedure.The results were reported to be highly satisfactory both by the patients and by the independent medical team. For six patients (8.82 %), fat grafting had to be repeated in the double bubble. No major complications were reported.The endoscopically assisted subfascial breast augmentation technique obtains highly satisfactory results in tuberous breasts types 1 and 2 (Grolleau's classification). The single scar is concealed in the axillary fold.This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article.

Developmental breast asymmetry (DBA) can affect psychosocial well-being in the young female. Correction of breast asymmetry may present a reconstructive challenge, especially in tuberous breasts. Fifty-two cases of DBA treated between January 2002 and January 2006 were reviewed. Preoperative clinical assessment of the specific anatomical deformity, subsequent surgical treatment modalities, esthetic outcome, and patient's satisfaction were evaluated. Surgical modalities used in our series include augmentation mammaplasty with or without tissue expansion, parenchymal scoring, nipple areola complex reduction, glanduloplasty techniques, mastopexy and reduction mammaplasty. The mean age of DBA presentation was 21 years; 69% (36/52) patients had tuberous breasts, of which 67% (24/36) were unilateral and 33% (12/36) were bilateral deformities. Patients with tuberous breast deformity presented consistently under the age of 25 years. Esthetic outcome was rated "good" in 75% (39/52), and symmetry rated as "good" in 58% (30/52) by professional evaluation. Surgical treatment is tailored to the affected esthetic units of the individual breast. In our experience, symmetry is the hardest parameter to achieve, particularly in tuberous breasts. Operative treatment is of great value to the psychosocial well-being of the patient. A conceptual approach in the assessment and treatment of DBA is emphasized by this series.

Background/Aim. There is a natural asymmetry in normal female brests. When the difference in the shape, size or position of the breast and nipple-areola complex is visible, surgical correction is the only treatment option and presents one of the greatest challenges for a plastic surgeon. Based on the Nahai classification presented in details, the aim of the study was to present the possibilities of plastic surgery to correct primary (congenital), secondary (developmental) and tertiary (acquired) brest asymmetries. Methods. We conducted a retrospective analysis of female breast asymmetry surgeries performed in the Clinic for Plastic Surgery and Burns, Military Medical Academy (MMA), Belgrade over the last seven years (January 2002 - January 2009). Results. During the above mentioned period, 82 female patients, 18 - 65 years of age, underwent surgery for breast asymmetry. The most frequent asymmetries were developmental, 'pubertal' (n = 43); acquired asymmetries as a consequence of tumor surgery were found in the other 22 patients, while 7 patients were diagnosed with primary asymmetries such as congenital chest-wall asymmetry (Sy. Poland), accessory and tuberous breasts. All patients underwent preoperative ultrasound examination, while hormone status was determined in those with developmental, 'pubertal' asymmetries. The selection of surgical procedure for correction of breast asymmetry depended upon clinical examination findings and patient's wish relating to the shape and size of the breasts. The most of breast asymmetries were corrected by a combination of surgical procedures including primary and secondary reconstruction, reduction, suspension or augmentation mammoplasty. Having combined different surgical procedures, we managed to achieve satisfactory results. The hypertrophic scar formation after reduction mamoplasty was seen in some cases, however, they caused no significant patient's discomfort. Conclusion. Application of plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgical principles can considerably contribute to achieving excellent results in corrective surgery for breast asymmetries. In addition to most suitable breast asymmetry surgical procedures choice, motivation of a patient is also very important for achieving satisfactory results.

The patient requested a breast augmentation at 3 months postpartum (before her wedding). The minimum waiting period is at least 3 months post-lactation. There was a comment that on the photo she appeared to have tuberous breasts and surgery could help that.

A 25-year-old patient with tuberous breasts had breast augmentation with textured silicone gel implants in subpectoral pockets. Postoperatively she developed double bubble and synmastia. The implants were changed to slightly larger implants and placed in subglandular position. There was slight improvement in the synmastia and the double bubble resolved. There were suggestions such as periareolar lift with permanent suture purse string because she has large areolas and the lift would help to reduce their size, use nonabsorbable sutures vertically after a strip capsulectomy inferomedially, and use Design Veronique synmastia compression garments postoperatively for 8 weeks for any patient with a lot of swelling between the breasts to prevent synmastia.

This 29-year-old patient with tuberous breasts requested larger breasts. Subglandular augmentation through a periareolar incision and PIP round, high-profile, smooth implants was suggested. The Group discussed inframammary incision, dividing the fibrous bands of the tuberous breasts, low-profile anatomical implants, excising part of the gland, and periareolar incision. Breast augmentation was performed using lower intra-areolar incisions and using 290 mL smooth, round, high-profile, titanium-coated, silicone gel implants in subglandular pockets. A small amount of breast tissue is excised from behind each areola, with diathermy and the breast tissue scored radially in four quadrants by direct vision.

A 23-year-old patient with slight pseudoptosis and tuberous breasts had breast augmentation. Round, textured cohesive silicone gel implants were placed in subglandular pockets. When seen 2 years later the right implant had flipped and there was glandular ptosis. The discussion included possible breast lift, change implant plane, change site of implant, change implant type, possible capsulectomy, and possible staging of the mastopexy and implants.

This is a young nulliparous patient with ptotic, asymmetric, and tuberous breasts requesting augmentation. The Group discussed mastopexy and annular release, periareolar incision, and possible lowering of inframammary fold.

The tuberous breast is a denomination not easy to define because it is difficult give a single, clear, and simple definition. When we talk about tuberous breasts we enter into a vast realm of different definitions, anatomical characteristics, and correction techniques. Among the numerous definitions used to describe these malformations are tuberous breast, tubular breast, hypoplasia of the inferior pole, constricted inferior pole, snoopy breast, domed nipple, and intra-areolar herniation [1].

This overweight female with hypomastia and right breast larger than the left desires larger and more even, natural shaped breasts. There was a comment that the patient had tuberous breasts as well. There were a variety of suggestions as the type of procedure that would benefit the patient.

A 21-year-old patient with tuberous breasts wanted to be rounder and fuller. The suggestion was breast augmentation, submuscular, periareolar, if you are using silicone, high-profile implants, and if mound appears constricted, then it needs to be released or inframammary incision.

This patient with ptosis wanted breast augmentation. The suggestions included no large implants to lift breasts, not submuscular implants, mastopexy with relocation of nipple-areolar complex, having tuberous breasts perform mastopexy/augmentation in stages, and use of polyurethane-coated implants. Controversies included whether or not to use staged procedures and vertical mastopexy in preference to other types of mastopexy.

Breast lipomodeling, or breast fat grafting, is a major development in breast plastic surgery. This technique has a low complication rate, excellent results, and patient acceptance. Radiologic evaluation mostly shows a normal-appearing breast. During breast reconstruction, fat grafting is the ideal complement of the latissimus dorsi flap. Fat grafting for Poland syndrome seems to be a great step and will most likely drastically change the surgical treatment of severe cases. Finally, lipomodeling is a new alternative in the treatment of pectus excavatum, tuberous breasts, and breast asymmetries.

Breast reshaping surgery for tuberous breast, breast reduction, and mastopexy procedures aim to keep the gained shape for a long time. In breast reduction, the surgeon must avoid loss of fullness in the upper pole, descent of the breast mass known as secondary dropout, and relapsed shape of the repaired tuberous breasts. As described in their clinical report, the authors use a caudally based thoracic wall flap to avoid these problems. The blood supply to the breast comes from two main sources: the mammary internal and lateral arteries. Because of vessels constantly perforating the pectoralis major muscle, it is possible to isolate a caudally based thoracic wall flap. These vessels originate from intercostal arteries as anteromedial intercostal perforators, and from the thoracoacromial artery as in the skin paddle of the pectoralis major muscle flap. This flap is long enough to reach every part of the breast where it is needed. Between January 2002 and June 2005, 64 patients underwent procedures in which the caudally based thoracic wall flap was used.

Concerns about problems of the breast are often noted in adolescents and their parents. This review discusses issues and disorders of the breast in children and adolescents, starting with basic principles of embryology and adolescent breast development. Concepts that are covered include congenital breast disorders, abnormal timing of breast development, breast asymmetry, underdeveloped breasts, breast atrophy, tuberous breasts, mammary hyperplasia, fibroadenoma, giant fibroadenoma, cystosarcoma phyllodes, intra-ductal breast papilloma, adenocarcinoma, mastitis, traumatic breast disorders, benign breast disease, fibrocystic change, mastalgia, gynecomastia, and galactorrhea. A number of figures are provided illustrating breast pathologic findings. Clinicians caring for children and adolescents are encouraged to provide careful assessments of this important organ.

Since the original descriptions by Gonzales-Ulloa in 1960 and Regnault in 1966, breast augmentation in combination with mastopexy has remained a difficult, and often polarizing, topic in plastic surgery, not only because of its results but also because of its litany of potential complications. Over the past few years, there has been an increase in the discussion of one-stage augmentation combined with mastopexy throughout the literature. However, a critical analysis of the aesthetic results, as well as patient satisfaction with the procedure, continues to be absent. Because there have not been any reported studies on the aesthetic results or patient satisfaction with augmentation and mastopexy, we undertook this retrospective review in an attempt answer a fundamental question: is one-stage breast augmentation combined with mastopexy aesthetically and functionally worthwhile for both the physician and patient? All 34 patients reviewed for this retrospective study underwent bilateral, one-stage breast augmentation and mastopexy between April 1996 and December 2002. Patient charts were reviewed for a number of parameters including previous breast surgery, degree of preoperative ptosis, type of mastopexy used, size and type of implants placed, implant position, postoperative complications, and any revision surgeries performed. Patient photographs were evaluated by observers blinded to the study, and patients were asked to complete a satisfaction questionnaire. Ptosis was graded according to the Regnault classification. As a result, 14 women had grade 1 ptosis (41%), fourteen had grade 2 ptosis (41%), one had grade 3 ptosis (3%), two had pseudoptosis (6%), and two had tuberous breasts (6%). The grade of ptosis in one patient was not defined. The patient complication rate was 8.8% (3 patients). For the aesthetic rating scale, preoperative and postoperative photographs taken after more than 1 year were evaluated. On the scale of 1 (poor) to 4 (excellent), overall ptosis correction was rated as 3.4, asymmetry correction as 3.4, postoperative breast symmetry as 3.2, scar quality as 3.3, breast shape as 3.1, nipple/areola size as 2.9, and overall result as 3. Only 13 of the 34 patients were available for completion of the satisfaction survey. Evaluation of the 13 patient satisfaction surveys showed that, on the average, the patients were satisfied with the various aspects of their surgery. The average overall result and surgical goals both were 3.1. However, 54% of the patients (n = 7) desired revision surgery for various reasons, the most common being a desire for more breast lift. A review of the patients and results, brought a number of issues to light. First, aesthetic results for augmentation and mastopexy truly depend on a number of different factors that must work in harmony to yield an excellent result. Second, what is aesthetically pleasing to the surgeon may not be pleasing to the patient, and vice versa. Third, although the patient aesthetic results were good, they were not consistently rated as excellent, nor were the patients totally satisfied with their outcomes. This perhaps reflects the more complex nature of both the patient's problems and the surgical procedure itself. Finally, although the overall results of one-stage breast augmentation and mastopexy are good, and the patients generally are satisfied, this study raises the question whether staging the surgery by performing the mastopexy first may not yield significantly better results than the combined simultaneous procedure.

The tuberous breast is a congenital malformation characterized by an extreme polymorphism. The wide variety of clinical presentations has led to great confusion among plastic surgeons, hence the many different names it has received: tubular breasts, tuberous breasts, snoopy breasts, snoopy dog-nose deformity, inferior pole constricted breasts, and intra-areolar glandular herniation. The authors discuss the clinical presentation, embryology, classification, and surgical techniques.

Congenital breast malformations have an incidence between 2 and 6 % with its range in severity from the relatively minor to major chest wall deformities. Throughout the breast’s development and evolution, alterations often appear due to volume excess (hypertrophies) or absence of volume (atrophy, hypotrophy), unequal development (asymmetries), or malformations (tuberous breasts).

The authors make a historical summary of the pathologic condition of tuberous breast and describe a new procedure for its correction. The method involves a periareolar approach, dividing the breast in two portions to disrupt the constricting ring, and making an inferiorly based flap or pedicle, as described and used by the senior author since 1969, with publication in 1973. The main goal is to correct the deformity at a one-stage operation, resulting in a periareolar scar only, without the use of alloplastic elements such as prostheses, mesh, or tissue expanders. The authors emphasize that Brazilian patients prefer having small breasts rather than large ones, even though the procedure allows the implantation of pre- or retromuscular implants through the periareolar incision.

In this retrospective study, the authors present 12 years of experience using a modified Puckett's technique with a double unfolded strictly subareolar glandular flap for surgical correction of the deformity known as "tuberous breast." In 1976, Rees and Aston documented this congenital malformation of the mammary glands in women. Its cause is unknown, and it affects adolescent girls with varying severity uni- or bilaterally. The condition is characterized by a lack of development, primarily in the lower quadrants of the breast plus a rising of the inframammary fold, together with herniation and increased diameter of the areola. Many varied surgical techniques for correction of this malformation in its different degrees of severity have been documented in the available literature. This study examined the treatment of 42 breasts in 26 patients with a high percentage of full correction of the deformity. The advantages and achievements of the double unfolded strictly subareolar glandular flap include restructuring of the breast's lower pole in volume, length, and shape; reduction and even removal of the double-bubble effect as the flap covers the implant fitted; lowering of inframammary fold height; and correction of areola size and herniation. The procedure is performed through a hemi- or periareolar incision. The technique is versatile for managing the different variations of tuberous breasts, making it another interesting option for correction of the deformity. Level of Evidence IV This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

The tuberous breast classification proposed by Grolleau does not account for a minor form of the deformity characterized by isolated nipple–areola protrusion with a normal breast base. We have observed this minor form in six patients with normal breast shape and in ten patients with hypertrophic breasts. We propose an anatomical and physiological hypothesis for the development of the mammary gland. The breast is subjected to hormonal influences as early as the prepubertal period. These influences result in thrusting forces with both horizontal (estrogen) and vertical (progesterone) vectors, unfortunately not always balanced and harmonious. Close observation of the anomaly in our patients substantiated the basic anatomical defect, namely, the structural congenital dermal weakness of the nipple–areola complex (NAC) already described in all forms of tuberous breast deformity. This weakness explains the morphologic anomaly and confirms that all types of tuberous breast deformity constitute a spectrum of a single entity. It indicates also that the classification of tuberous breasts should include, in addition to the three types (types I–III) already described, a fourth type (type 0) to describe isolated simple areola protrusion, either permanent or intermittent, that is associated with a normal mammary base. The revised classification of tuberous breasts and the proposed hypothesis of breast development allow better assessment of all possible variants of breast morphologic anomalies. In the six cases of isolated herniated NAC, the deformity was corrected through a perinipple approach (not circumareolar), with adequate stable correction of the deformity and minimal scarring. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

The goal of this study was to define the incidence of double breast contour in primary aesthetic breast augmentation and to analyze its risk factors. An independent plastic surgeon analyzed the data of 200 patients who had a primary aesthetic breast augmentation with silicone gel implant and with a minimum 12-month follow-up. All patients had pre and postoperative standardized photography. Mastopexy-augmentations, breast reconstructions, breast malformations (tuberous breasts and Poland syndrome), and patients with incomplete data were excluded from the study. Assessment was achieved using an original standardized evaluation form (preoperative breast morphology, surgical options, postoperative aesthetic results). Patients were also asked to complete an exhaustive satisfaction form. A double breast contour was assessed clinically using Massiha's classification. The mean follow-up was 36 months. The double breast contour incidence was 7%. All of them were type I (the so called waterfall deformity). There was no type II (double inframammary crease). They were minor for 6.5% and major for 0.5%. They were related to a preoperative breast ptosis, subpectoral placement, and implant upper malposition. The rate of the type I was 10.5% of submuscular augmentation and 15% of preoperative breast ptosis. A double breast contour was primitive for 6% and secondary for 1% (pregnancy and breast-feeding postaugmentation). It was bilateral for 4.5% (3 cases of upper malposition, 1 case of medial malposition, 2 cases of pregnancy with breast-feeding postaugmentation and 1 patient refused a mastopexy-augmentation). It was unilateral for 2.5% related to a preoperative breast asymmetry with ptosis asymmetry and skin quality asymmetry. The satisfaction rate in the group "double contour" (14 patients) was 85.7% (vs. 91.9%). One patient had revision surgery (upper malposition). These types of deformities are fundamentally different with consideration on their clinical aspects, physiopathogeny, prevention and treatment. Type I major risk factor is subpectoral augmentation of ptotic breasts (with medium to bad skin quality and loses muscle to gland attachments). The muscle at the inferior pole of the breast is a "brake" preventing implant to fill the envelope. This risk is increased with implant malposition, constitutional ptosis asymmetry with symmetrical implant placement and selection of an insufficient implant projection or dimensions. This deformity can be avoided with selection of a subglandular or dual plane (type II or III) placement, a sufficient implant volume or projection and anatomic prosthesis. Type II is related to a lowering of a well-defined submammary fold more commonly in constricted and dens glandular breasts. This deformity can be avoided with respecting the inframammary fold, radial incisions on the gland's posterior surface, and selection of anatomic implants.

A corrective surgical technique is described for a newly defined deformity: hypoplasia of the lower medial quadrant of the breast. It involves reducing the usually enlarged nipple-areola complex and reshaping the breast by turning a glandular pedicled flap from the fairly large upper two quadrants on a medial base into the underdeveloped site of the medial lower quadrant. The method proved uniformly successful in 11 cases and 17 breasts involved.

A single case is reported utilizing, recipient site pre-expansion with BRAVA (Brava, Inc, Miami, FL) followed by autologous fat grafting to the breast in a patient with severe breast asymmetry. Recipient site pre-expansion, used 2 to 3 weeks before fat grafting and 2 weeks after fat grafting may have both practical and theoretical benefits in optimizing the volume and enhancing the survival of grafted adipocytes, the mechanism of which is discussed. Recipient site pre-expansion and fat grafting may have early clinical adoption in cases of severe asymmetry, tuberous breasts, and other deformities that are difficult to treat with current reconstructive techniques, but studies are needed to clearly delineate its safety and its role.

This article presents the tissue expansion technique for the treatment of the tuberous breast and its variant, the tubular breast. The treatment objectives are different in the two deformities, but, in general, one has to expand the base circumference of the breast, expand the skin of the lower hemisphere of the breast, release the skin tightness at the skin-areola juncture, lower the position of the inframammary fold, increase the volume of the breast skin envelope, reduce the size of the areola and correct its deformity, and perform a mastopexy when necessary. To achieve these objectives, we use a tissue expander introduced either beneath the breast or beneath the pectoral muscle through an incision along the inframammary fold. It is slowly expanded to the appropriate volume. The reconstruction is completed at the second stage when the size of the areola is reduced, the expander is exchanged for an implant, or the fill-port is removed. The tissue "herniation" is corrected and a mastopexy is performed when necessary. We treated seven tuberous breasts and three tubular breasts by the two-stage method. Eight reconstructions were completed successfully in two stages. An additional operation became necessary in two cases; one to treat an exposed expander, and another to correct a capsular contracture. The results have been uniformly good and compare favorably with those presented in the literature done by other methods. We recommend use of the combination expander/implant.

One of the most controversial topics in aesthetic breast surgery is the approach to a tuberous or to a mild to moderate hypoplastic and ptotic breast. In these situations, augmentation alone does not solve the problem and even the use of a bigger implant to elevate the nipple as much as possible results in more breast ptosis in the long term. These patients benefit from a mastopexy procedure. It is tempting for patients and also for surgeons to have these procedures performed together. However, this is a contentious decision to make.

Summary Background The tuberous breast presents a problem for which many surgical solutions have been described. Current teaching describes how the tuberous breast deformity is the result of skin shortage as well as herniation of breast tissue through the nipple–areola complex. However, through careful clinical observation we now believe that the only abnormality present is herniation of breast tissue through the nipple–areola complex. Methods Using this principle, we have refined a one-stage surgical procedure that can be used to correct any type of tuberous breast deformity. Since 2001 we have performed our technique on a series of 13 tuberous breasts of widely varying appearances in eight patients (age 17–24 years) with a follow up varying between 3 and 56 months. Our new understanding of the tuberous breast deformity has also made it possible to develop an objective, reproducible method for defining the tuberous breast based on the degree of areola herniation. Results All patients reported high levels of satisfaction with the procedure. Assessment of the results by an independent panel of attending surgeons showed all results to be good/excellent. Moreover, the results have improved with time and no revisions have been needed. Our method of defining the tuberous breast (based on the ratio of areola herniation:areola diameter) enabled us to identify a cut-off to decide (objectively) when a breast was tuberous. This allowed us to anticipate when an areola reduction/tightening procedure would be necessary to avoid a ‘double-bubble' deformity. Conclusion We propose a one-stage surgical procedure which is applicable to all degrees of tuberous breast deformity. The results appear to confirm our theory that the only abnormality present in the tuberous breast is herniation of breast tissue through the nipple–areola complex. In patients with small breasts and a tuberous deformity, correction of the herniation changes the tuberous breast into a simple hypoplastic breast. The volume deficit can then be corrected by augmentation (if desired by the patient). In patients with sufficient breast volume, correction of the herniation alone will correct the deformity.

Tuberous breast deformity is a rare entity affecting young women bilaterally or unilaterally. It requires surgical correction, depending on the severity of the clinical expression, because of its aesthetic appearance. Since the presentation of the malformation by Rees and Aston in 1976, many surgical procedures have been developed, but the deformity still is one of the most challenging congenital breast anomalies. Between September 1999 and September 2005, eight patients with tuberous breast deformity underwent surgery in our department. A two-stage approach was used to manage 14 tuberous breasts. We used a combination of anatomic textured tissue expanders with magnetic injection sites and silicone gel implants. Other reconstructive procedures such as mastopexy, breast reduction, and areolar reduction can be considered. Our long-term results, with a maximum follow-up of 6 years, were satisfying. They have been uniformly good and compare favorably with those presented in the literature when the use of other methods. This two-stage approach is a relatively simple, safe, and technically easy procedure that is easy to learn. The results achieved with this approach seem to be reliable and gratifying.

According to the authors, this periareolar approach for correcting the tubular breast is especially effective in preventing recurrence. Maneuvers include transecting the constrictive ring, filling the generally hypoplastic inferior quadrants, and redistributing the glandular tissue over the breast base, correcting the constriction that is transversely and/or vertically present. The procedure is easily performed and may also include implant placement.

The tuberous breast deformity is a rare entity affecting young women bilaterally or unilaterally. The deformity is characterized by a constricting ring at the base of the breast, which leads to deficient horizontal and vertical development of the breast with or without herniation of the breast parenchyma toward the nipple-areola complex and areola enlargement. Several methods have been put forward to correct the deformity, but most of these fail to address the issue of the constricting ring and subsequently yield results that are not aesthetically satisfactory. A new approach to the treatment of the deformity is presented, which consists of a periareolar approach and rearrangement of the inferior part of the breast parenchyma by division of the constricting ring, thus creating two breast pillars. These pillars are allowed to redrape, and in cases of volume deficiency, a silicone breast implant is placed in a subglandular pocket. The procedure is completed by a donut-type excision to address the size of the nipple-areola complex. The technique has used on 11 patients (21 breasts) with excellent aesthetic results.