Dermal suspension flaps for McKissockʹs vertical bipedicle flap vs. classical McKissockʹs technique: comparison of aesthetic results and patient satisfaction

McKissockʹs vertical bipedicle flaps technique is a common technique used in reduction mammaplasty. This technique includes a well-vascularised dermal-parenchymal pedicle for safe nipple-areola transposition, but it has been criticised as resulting in a flat breast with inadequate projection after long-term follow-up. Various techniques in which dermal suspension flaps are used have demonstrated decreased secondary ptosis. We used a dermal suspension flap technique for the vertical bipedicled flap of the McKissockʹs breast reduction and compared it with classical McKissockʹs technique by review of the patient charts, photographic analysis and patient-satisfaction questionnaire. Evaluations and measurements with postoperative photographs for the dermal brassiere group compared with the classical McKissock breasts were found to be statistically different. There were no differences in complication rates and patient satisfaction between the groups. McKissockʹs technique with dermal suspension flap is an easy and uncomplicated modification that provides additional advantages for prevention of the secondary ptosis of the reduced breasts in the long term.