An Algorithm for Correction of Mild Tuberous Breast Deformity in Augmentation Mammaplasty: Camouflage or Correct?

[BACKGROUND] Tuberous breast deformity (TBD) is a common abnormality, particularly in patients presenting for breast augmentation. Failure to correct each regional abnormality, including the inframammary fold, lower pole deficiency, nipple-areola complex widening or herniation, or any degree of ptosis, will result in exaggeration of the deformity and a poor aesthetic outcome.

[OBJECTIVES] To describe an algorithm, including novel techniques, to address each region of mild TBD in patients undergoing breast augmentation.

[METHODS] This is a retrospective review and description of the senior author's (K.T.) techniques for correction of early-stage TBD from 2016 to 2021.

[RESULTS] One hundred forty-two patients underwent a stepwise approach to correct milder TBD features when undergoing breast augmentation.

[CONCLUSIONS] The authors propose a regional algorithm for management of TBD, to allow mostly single-stage correction, except in cases with marked ptosis, severe asymmetry, or marked macroareola.