ENDOSCOPIC ASSISTED TRANSAXILLARY SUBPECTORAL AUGMENTATION MAMMAPLASTY

Park, Weon Jin

Abstract

The traditional transaxillary approach for breast augmentation gained popularity among plastic surgeons for its abscence of scar on the breast, minimal loss of nipple sensation and a theoretically decreased risk of periprosthetic infections by minimizing contact with breast tissue. The shortcomings of the traditional approach are limitation of visualization and hemostasis. Blunt dissection limits surgeons ability to precisely control the inframammary fold and lowed pole of breast. This limitation may result in improper implant placement and poor aesthetic result. In order to overcome theirs disadvantages, we used endoscopic technique in transaxillary technique. With endoscopically detected transaxillary subpectoral breast augmentation, bleeding vessels are easily seen and coagulated. Visualization of the pocket allows significantly better control of the inframammary fold. We can also divide the pectoralis muscles and prepectoralis fascia under controlled visualization. From 1994 to 1996, 84 implants haute been placed in 42 patients utilizing the endoscopic assisted transaxillary subpectoral augmentation mammaplasty . We used 32 textured implants and 52 smooth type implants. Follow up ranged from 2weeks to 18 months. We did not experience any hematomas, inflections, capsular contractures or other complications. We obtained good aesthetic results and patient acceptance. With endoscopically assisted transaxillary subpectoral augmentation mammaplasty, we have precise control of inframammary crease and hemostasis. As we obtained good aesthetic results, here, we have described our surgical technique and brief clinical expediences.