PURPOSE: Reduction mammaplasty is a commonly performed surgical procedure to alleviate symptomatic macromastia, correct breast asymmetry, and reshape the breast after reconstruction or body weight loss. While numerous surgical techniques exist, all aim to reduce adverse effects of mammary hypertrophy and create a smaller, symmetric breast. In this work, we describe our experience with a novel “dragonfly” pedicle for reduction mammaplasty, using an inferior pedicle with superomedial extension with an autologous internal brassiere.
METHODS: Retrospective chart review was performed. All patients who underwent reduction mammaplasty with dragonfly pedicle technique at the senior authors’ institution between October 2021 and December 2022 were included. Patient demographics, comorbidities, operative details, and postoperative adverse events were recorded.
RESULTS: Seven patients were treated with the dragonfly pedicle breast reduction technique. The average age was 46.2 years, and the average body mass index was 28.6 kg/m2. The average operative time was 2 hours 42 minutes and average breast tissue removed was 562 g (right breast) and 543g (left breast). Aesthetic outcome was monitored at 2-4 weeks and at 6-12 months. Post-operative measurements were stable throughout follow-up. There were no complications.
CONCLUSION: The dragonfly pedicle, an inferior pedicle with a superomedial extension, is a novel approach for reduction mammaplasty. This technique offers dual blood supply, greater mobility of the nipple-areola-complex (NAC), and increased medial pole fullness and projection. The incorporation of an autologous internal brassiere enhances inferior support. This novel technique offers excellent aesthetic outcomes for suitable patients without additional risk.