Laser Fluorescent Imaging of Nipple and Areola During Breast Lift in Combination With Breast Implants

Protocol

Laser Fluorescent Imaging of Breasts During Vertical Breast Lifts and Reductions Performed in Combination with Breast Implants.

Background/Purpose

Today, breast lifts are a common operation. Implants may be recommended to provide greater fullness of the upper poles of the breasts. One of the risks of surgery is compromised circulation to the nipples and areolae. Some investigators believe that the simultaneous insertion of breast implants adds to the risk by causing pressure on the overlying breast tissue and skin.1 Staging the procedure (first the breast lift and then implants or vice versa) has been recommended, but staging is inconvenient and costly for patients, necessitating two operations. Clinical experience with the newer vertical breast lift technique, as opposed to the traditional inferior pedicle technique, has been favorable, with few reported complications.2 The vertical technique uses a shorter, more superficial pedicle than the traditional inferior pedicle, with a more reliable blood supply.2 A breast lift and reduction are essentially the same operation; more breast tissue is removed during a reduction but the dissection is the same.

This study was undertaken to investigate the blood supply to the nipples and areolae during the combined breast lift/reduction and implants procedure. Laser fluorescent imaging represents an objective measurement technique that has been used for several years to monitor the vascularity of flaps used in breast reconstruction.