Nipple-areolar reconstruction with the modified arrow flap.

Author: Wei LI ¹ ; Lan-Hua MU ; Jie LUAN ; Da-Li MU ; Yi-Hua ZHENG ; Min-Qiang XIN ; Chen LIU
Author Information

1. Breast Center of Plastic Surgery Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100144, China.
Publication Type:Journal Article
MeSH: Adult; Female; Humans; Mammaplasty; methods; Middle Aged; Nipples; surgery; Skin Transplantation; Surgical Flaps
From: Chinese Journal of Plastic Surgery 2008;24(1):23-25
CountryChina
Language:Chinese
Abstract:
OBJECTIVETo introduce the clinical experience of nipple-areolar reconstruction with the modified arrow flap.
METHODSThe arrow flaps were modified for nipple-areolar reconstruction in 12 cases. Among them, 2 cases were treated with combined thin split-thickness skin graft; 4 cases with autologous rib implant and tattoo; 6 cases with tattoo.
RESULTSAll the reconstructed nipples were survived. The reconstructed nipples lost projection 1 month after operation in 2 cases. The other 10 cases retained 50% of the nipple projection 3 months after operation. The results were maintained with satisfactory symmetry during the follow-up period of 6 months to one year.
CONCLUSIONSThe modified flap is easily performed with reasonable design and no need of donor site. The nipple projection can be maintained with good long-term effect.