BACKGROUND: Optimal breast augmentation-mastopexy involves a reliable technique, fast recovery, minimal complications, and aesthetic results that are excellent and enduring. OBJECTIVES: The authors sought to determine whether the balcony technique of augmentation-mastopexy was safe and yielded satisfactory long-term outcomes in patients with breast ptosis and hypoplasia. METHODS: The authors conducted a retrospective review of 207 patients who underwent subglandular augmentation and inverted-T mastopexy with a customized Wise keyhole resection pattern and an inferior flap. Patient satisfaction was assessed anonymously on a visual analog scale via a questionnaire administered 4 years postoperatively. RESULTS: A total of 182 women received follow-up for 48 months and were included in statistical analyses. High levels of satisfaction were determined using Fischer exact test for breast shape, size, and symmetry, but not for other items, such as scar appearance, body perception, or self-esteem. The most common complications were Baker II capsular contracture and wound dehiscence. No patient experienced nipple loss or skin flap necrosis. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this long-term analysis demonstrate that the balcony technique of augmentation-mastopexy is suitable for patients with breast ptosis and hypoplasia. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4.
BACKGROUND: Optimal breast augmentation-mastopexy involves a reliable technique, fast recovery, minimal complications, and aesthetic results that are excellent and enduring. OBJECTIVES: The authors sought to determine whether the balcony technique of augmentation-mastopexy was safe and yielded satisfactory long-term outcomes in patients with breast ptosis and hypoplasia. METHODS: The authors conducted a retrospective review of 207 patients who underwent subglandular augmentation and inverted-T mastopexy with a customized Wise keyhole resection pattern and an inferior flap. Patient satisfaction was assessed anonymously on a visual analog scale via a questionnaire administered 4 years postoperatively. RESULTS: A total of 182 women received follow-up for 48 months and were included in statistical analyses. High levels of satisfaction were determined using Fischer exact test for breast shape, size, and symmetry, but not for other items, such as scar appearance, body perception, or self-esteem. The most common complications were Baker II capsular contracture and wound dehiscence. No patient experienced nipple loss or skin flap necrosis. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this long-term analysis demonstrate that the balcony technique of augmentation-mastopexy is suitable for patients with breast ptosis and hypoplasia. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4.