BACKGROUND: Although several types of reduction mammaplasty have been described in the literature, there are few studies addressing the post-operative changes in nipple-areola complex (NAC) sensitivity. The present study analyzed the changes in NAC sensitivity after mammaplasties performed using the cross flap technique (Sperli's technique). METHODS: A descriptive, analytical, and retrospective study was conducted including 14 women between 20 and 60 years of age who underwent reduction mammaplasty with the cross flap technique. The patients had grades I, II, and III breast ptosis without hypertrophy or with small to medium hypertrophies. RESULTS: In a subjective sensitivity and nipple contraction analysis, 12 (85.7%) patients reported a total return of NAC sensitivity 6 months after surgery. One year after surgery, all patients reported the return of sensitivity and nipple contraction with various degrees of intensity. CONCLUSIONS: The cross flap technique is a viable option for reduction mammaplasty as it provides good aesthetic and functional results and the restoration of sensitivity to the breast in 100% of the cases.
Mammaplasty; Breast; Surgical flaps; Perception
