Breast Reconstruction Actualized in Nipple-sparing Mastectomy and Direct-to-implant, Prepectoral Polyurethane Positioning: Early Experience and Preliminary Results.

BACKGROUND: Implant-based breast reconstruction after nipple-sparing mastectomy has been the most common breast reconstruction procedure performed, for both breast cancer treatment and prophylactically. Subpectoral implant placement with partial detachment of the pectoralis major muscle has been the procedure of choice for staged reconstruction and direct-to-implantation. Prepectoral implant placement has recently increased in popularity among plastic surgeons owing to the high rates of animation deformity, loss of muscle function, and chronic pain observed with submuscular implant placement. Acellular dermal matrices or synthetic meshes have been used for implant coverage and support to avoid capsular contracture and implant visibility. In the present study, we have introduced breast reconstruction actualized in nipple-sparing mastectomy and direct-to-implant with prepectoral polyurethane positioning (BRAND4P).

PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 34 nipple-sparing mastectomies and immediate direct-to-implant breast reconstructions with prepectoral polyurethane-coated implant placement were performed in 21 patients (13 bilateral and 8 unilateral). The implant was placed subcutaneously in the exact place of the excised breast parenchyma with no further coverage.

RESULTS: After a mean follow-up of 4 months, no major complications had been observed. No patient presented with animation deformity or grade III-IV capsular contracture. Patient satisfaction, assessed using the BREAST-Q, was excellent.

CONCLUSIONS: The BRAND4P method represents a novel prepectoral approach and a feasible alternative to subpectoral implant placement among the available implant-based breast reconstruction techniques.