BACKGROUND: Reconstruction of the nipple-areola complex (NAC) is the fundamental step in breast reconstruction in cases involving amputation of the nipple complex during mastectomy. The double opposing flap technique enables efficient reconstruction of the NAC, providing an adequate diameter, good projection, and symmetry with respect to the contralateral NAC. In addition, the donor area can be closed, and all scars can be contained within the topography of the reconstructed areola. This study presents the results obtained in NAC reconstruction using the double opposing flap technique in breast reconstruction. METHODS:This retrospective study involved 24 patients in whom 31 NACs (17 unilateral and 7 bilateral) were reconstructed using the abovementioned technique between July 2008 and June 2010. The results were evaluated objectively and subjectively. RESULTS: In the subjective analysis, the patients' satisfaction level regarding the final surgery results was high. In the objective analysis, the areolar horizontal diameter and nipple projection of the reconstructed NACs were quantitatively similar (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The double opposing flap is an excellent strategy for NAC reconstruction. The method has a short learning curve and guarantees centralized symmetrical nipples with long-term results.
Mammaplasty; Breast; Nipples; Breast neoplasms; Surgical flaps
