Improving breast shape and symmetry in reduction mammaplasty.

In any bilateral operation, symmetry is of primary importance. When the shape of the remodeled breast is unsatisfactory after excess tissue has been removed, the surgeon may feel that leaving more tissue as support would improve the shape of the breast. When this happens in the second breast, there is not only an unsatisfactory form but asymmetry as well. This paper describes our organization of the steps in the operation, and underscores the importance of Gillies' maxim, "In plastic surgery, never throw anything away."