Is it common to anchor the fold of breasts to ribs to lift so they can be prepared for implants?

Question

I had DIEP flap and nipple saving mastectomy 10 months ago it all failed necrosis destroyed tissue and I had open wounds and many infections. I am well again and a different plastic Dr. is trying to restore my mess. The breast tissue left is in my midriff nearly on my stomach so I cannot wear fitted clothing on top so the breasts need to be lifted and prepared for implants. He said to anchor the breast folds he will tie them to my ribs is this done often? Any other options or suggestions?

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Restoration of the Inframammary Fold (IMF) in breast reconstruction is crucial for achieving optimal results.  If violated during previous surgical procedures, it is often recreated by placing sutures to the chest wall (fascia or rib itself).  This simply will restore the IMF crease and allow this normal anatomic structure to remain intact in an attempt to recreate the most aesthetically-appearing breast as possible.

Robert Whitfield, MD · Answer

Sorry that this is your situation.  DIEP flaps should be high a high success rate.  Because there is no picture it is unclear to me what is being done.  The fold can be created in a number of ways and the method you described is one of them.  If you have had a nipple sparing procedure and the flap failed on the inside and had be removed then I presume you are deflated.  Fat grafting and the use of BRAVA may be another way to go about this process that you can control more on the patient side.  I also would re-evaluate your flap options including your inner thigh tissues.  At this point I would have to see you in consultation to give you the best information.  If you are interested contact the Breast and Body Center of Austin for a consult.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Reinforcing the fold and resuspending it is often done with breast reconstruction to restore the crease.

Samir Shureih, MD · Answer

The inframammary line is a very important anatomic structure. It should never be destroyed for any reason.It is very common to stabilize the inframammary line or move the inframammary lineSamir Shureih MD.FACSsshureih@msn.com

Is it common to anchor the fold of breasts to ribs to lift so they can be prepared for implants?

Answers (4)

Answer: Inframammary line

Answer: Inframammary line

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reconstruction Revision

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Is it common to anchor the fold of breasts to ribs to lift so they can be prepared for implants?

Answers (4)

Answer: Inframammary line

Answer: Inframammary line

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reconstruction Revision

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.