Background: : Simultaneous contralateral augmentation is performed with unilateral breast reconstruction to achieve pleasing and symmetric breast mounds. This prospective study investigated the outcome of simultaneous scarless contralateral augmentation with unilateral breast reconstruction using bilateral differentially split deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flaps.
Methods: : Between August of 2009 and May of 2010, six patients with a mean age of 46.2 ± 7 years underwent unilateral breast reconstruction and simultaneous contralateral augmentation using bilateral differentially split DIEP flaps. The ipsilateral internal mammary vessels served as the recipient vessels for the reconstruction split flap. The pedicle of the augmentation split flap was anastomosed to that of the reconstruction split flap in a flow-through manner. The augmentation split flap was inset through the midline with endoscopic assistance. The Modified BREAST-Q questionnaire was administered preoperatively and at the 1- and 3-month follow-up visits.
Results: : All flaps survived, giving a success rate of 100 percent. One reconstruction split flap required reexploration and was salvaged successfully. Mean flap weights used for reconstruction and augmentation were 410 ± 145 and 192 ± 58 g, respectively. At a mean follow-up of 12.7 ± 3.6 months, all patients were satisfied with the outcome of both reconstructed and augmented breast mounds. There were statistical improvements in breast satisfaction (p = 0.004), psychosocial function (p = 0.000), and sexual well-being (p = 0.004) postoperatively, as assessed by the Modified BREAST-Q.
Conclusion: : Simultaneous scarless contralateral breast augmentation can be performed safely during unilateral breast reconstruction using bilateral differentially split DIEP flaps with satisfactory outcome.
Clinical question/level of evidence: : Therapeutic, IV.