Preserving the Nipple Projection in Breast Reduction with the Free Nipple-Areolar Graft Technique: Purse-String Suture

Background Breast reduction with the free nipple-areolar graft (FNG) technique has disadvantages such as loss of nipple projection, loss of nipple sensation, and depigmentation of the nipple-areolar complex. In this study, patients in whom a purse-string (PS) suture was used in the center of the de-epithelialized area to prevent loss of nipple projection were compared with patients who underwent the conventional method. Methods A retrospective analysis of the patients who underwent breast reduction with the FNG was conducted in our department. Patients were divided into two groups according to the FNG placement. In the PS suture method group, a 1-cm-diameter circumferential suture was placed with a 5-0 Monocryl ® (poliglecaprone 25) suture to gain a 6-mm-nipple projection. In the conventional method group, the FNG was placed directly over the de-epithelized area. Graft viability was evaluated after 3 weeks postoperatively. The final nipple projection and depigmentation were evaluated after 6 months postoperatively. The results were evaluated with statistical tests. Results The number of patients with the conventional method was 10, and the PS suture method was 12. There was no statistically significant difference between two groups regarding graft loss and depigmentation ( p > 0.05). Nipple projection was significantly higher in the PS method group ( p