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Lateral Inframammary Approach for Asian Augmentation Mammaplasty

Background: The inframammary fold (IMF) approach for augmentation mammaplasty is less popular in Asia. The incision was modified to lateral IMF(L-IMF) for easy access and better outcome. The aim of this study was to evaluate if L-IMF approach is feasible in Asian women. Methods: Between 2002 and 2016, 53 patients with 96 augmentation mammaplasties were performed using lateral (L-IMF, 31 cases, 56 breasts) and traditional IMF approaches (T-IMF, 22 cases, 40 breasts). Surgical outcome was compared between L-IMF and T-IMF groups. Scar was assessed using photographic images by 4 assessors with a modified Manchester Scar Score, and telephone surveys available in L-IMF group. Results: The average age was 41 ± 10.7 years (range, 20–73 years). There were no statistical differences in demographics in both groups besides of implant type (P < 0.01). At a follow-up of 80.1 months (range, 20–173 months), the capsular contracture rate and overall complication rate were statistically lower in L-IMF group, 3.6%, and 3.6%, than in T-IMF group, 15%, and 20% (P = 0.05, and P < 0.01, respectively). The modified Manchester Scar for L-IMF scars was 8.47 ± 2.4. The average score of 24 of 31 patients with L-IMF incision was 3.8 ± 0.96/5 points with patient-reported questionnaire. Nineteen patients (79.2%) would recommend or strongly recommend the procedure to friends. Conclusions: The scar of L-IMF group healed satisfactorily with lower capsular contracture and overall complication rates than T-IMF group. Patients were satisfied with the outcome of breast augmentation and scar appearance using L-IMF approach.