Reduction mammaplasty by the inferior pedicle technique. An alternative to free nipple and areola grafting for severe macromastia or extreme ptosis.

Patients with massive macromastia, or severe ptosis, should be candidates for a reduction mammaplasty by the inferior pedicle transposition technique, instead of by free nipple and areola grafting. With the inferior pedicle technique the blood supply to the nipple and areola remains generous, coming from the entire width of the inframammary fold. By using a keyhole skin flap pattern, a conical breast shape is achieved when the medial and lateral skin flaps are brought together as a skin brassiere. The methods seems safe and simple, and the results have been satisfactory. An unexpected benefit has been the excellent postoperative sensation of the nipple, areola, and the skin of the breasts.