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Nipple-areola complex repositioning may be corrected in multiple ways

Radiation experience and vertical mastectomy incisions were factors associated with nipple-areola complex malpositioning.

Researchers conducted a retrospective review of all nipple-sparing mastectomies performed at a single institution between 2006 and 2016. They identified 1,037 procedures, all of which were performed in a delayed fashion. Nipple-areola complex malposition occurred in 7.4% of the group.

Crescentic periareolar excision was used in 32.5% of procedures, and directional skin excision was used in 13%. 

Common factors in procedures requiring nipple-areola complex repositioning included preoperative radiation (P = .0008), a vertical or Wise pattern incision (P = .0157), autologous reconstruction (P = .0219), and minor mastectomy flap necrosis (P = .0462), according to the results.

Positive prognostic factors for nipple-areola complex repositioning included radiation experience (OR = 3.6827; P = .0028), vertical radial mastectomy incisions (OR = 1.8218; P = .0202) and autologous reconstruction (OR = 1.77; P = .0053).

Implant-based reconstruction negatively predicted repositioning (OR = 0.5552; P < .0001).

Factors that failed to predict repositioning included BMI (P = .7104) and adjuvant radiation (P = .9536). – by Rob Volansky

Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.