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. 2022 Feb 22;10(2):e4132.
doi: 10.1097/GOX.0000000000004132. eCollection 2022 Feb.

Prepectoral Conversion of Subpectoral Implants for Animation Deformity after Breast Reconstruction: Technique and Experience

Affiliations

Prepectoral Conversion of Subpectoral Implants for Animation Deformity after Breast Reconstruction: Technique and Experience

Alexander Shikhman et al. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. .

Abstract

Implant-based breast reconstruction in postmastectomy patients is commonly performed in a submuscular plane. Following reconstruction, animation deformity can be a displeasing aesthetic result for patients. In addition, patients may experience more postoperative pain with a submuscular reconstruction. Prepectoral conversion of submuscular implant position is an option for addressing these concerns. We describe a detailed technique and review our results.

Methods: A retrospective review was conducted of all prepectoral conversions performed by the senior author (DSW) from 2017 to 2019 after IRB approval. All patients presented with animation deformity and another symptom such as asymmetry, pain, and/or capsular contracture. Patients underwent prepectoral conversion with smooth silicone gel implants. Demographic data, outcomes, and patient satisfaction were reviewed.

Results: Prepectoral conversion was performed in 33 consecutive patients (57 breasts) with animation deformity. Twelve patients had capsular contracture, seven complained of pain, and five had ruptured implants. Postoperative complications included three infections requiring implant removal in two breasts, one implant exposure and one hematoma requiring implant replacement, five seromas requiring aspiration, and one capsular contracture. Seven patients had contour abnormalities addressed with secondary autologous fat grafting. Ultimately, all patients had elimination of animation deformity and were satisfied with the results of the conversion.

Conclusions: Unsatisfactory results of subpectoral implant reconstruction such as animation deformity and chronic pain have led the reconstructive surgeon to consider various techniques to address these issues. The conversion to a prepectoral plane will effectively eliminate animation deformity, resolve pain, and yield satisfactory results in these patients.

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Figures

Fig. 1.
Fig. 1.
Plane of dissection.
Fig. 2.
Fig. 2.
Implant pocket accessed, leaving a 1 cm cuff of ADM on the pectoralis major muscle.
Fig. 3.
Fig. 3.
Partial capsulectomy of the lower outer capsule.
Fig. 4.
Fig. 4.
Completed myoplasty along the anatomic origin.
Fig. 5.
Fig. 5.
Lateral ADM corners secured to the chest wall.
Fig. 6.
Fig. 6.
The ADM equator is partially closed medially and laterally.
Fig. 7.
Fig. 7.
Implant in position.
Fig. 8.
Fig. 8.
ADM pocket is closed.
Fig. 9.
Fig. 9.
Completion of prepectoral implant conversion.
Fig. 10.
Fig. 10.
Patient 1. A, Preoperative animation deformity. B, Postoperative animation deformity resolved.
Fig. 11.
Fig. 11.
Patient 2. A, Preoperative animation deformity. B, Postoperative animation deformity resolved.
Fig. 12.
Fig. 12.
Preoperative upper pole irregularity.
Fig. 13.
Fig. 13.
Postoperative improved upper pole contour, no fat grafting.

References

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