Nipple/Infra-mammary Fold Distance: An indicator for aesthetic outcome in reduction mammaplasty.

IntroductionReduction mammaplasty became one of the most common performed procedures by plastic surgeons. Despite the diversity of the techniques that can be utilized to achieve aesthetically pleasant results, the final outcome not usually depends only on the shape but also on the quality of life following the surgery.Material and MethodsN/IMF distance was determined according to Tibbetts criteria; the distance is proportional to breast width (0.6 the width, not more than 10cm). The distance was measured on maximally stretched skin in inferior pedicle flap reduction and mastopexy procedures, while the distance was measured in relaxed standing position in superior or supero-medial pedicle flaps reductions, in order to anticipate the amount of lower pole stretch following the surgery.ResultsOne hundred fifty eligible participants who underwent reduction mammaplasty were included in our study. Only 132 participants (88%) had completed the subjective questionnaire as well as completed the objective assessment as well. The patient's subjective satisfaction was good in 63.3% of patients. regarding the objective assessment both breasts were symmetrical in 75.3%, perfect size to torso in 68% of patients & well contoured in 69.3% of patients Conclusion:The proportions between the N/IMF distance and the patient's breast measurements and topography have great necessity to patient satisfaction and should be taken into consideration when planning a reduction mammaplasty.