Abstract
Reduction mammoplasty is one of the most commonly performed reconstructive procedures by plastic surgeons. It also is characterized by the highest patient satisfaction rates. Common indications for surgery include shoulder, neck, or back pain; intertrigus rash; shoulder bra strap grooving; postural problems; difficulty performing exercise; and ulnar paresthesias. This chapter will discuss several nuances in techniques performed in our practice, which have facilitated the steps and perioperative management of these patients. In addition, in our opinion, these helped to decrease common complications of this procedure. We utilize a wise pattern with an inferior dermal pedicle because it is very reliable, reproducible, and a teachable technique. Markings can be reproduced with various breast types and shapes. We believe this gives consistent results with high patient satisfaction. We have incorporated some steps that help standardize and simplify the surgery, while providing reliable results and decreasing complications. This chapter includes some “tricks” we use during our markings, preoperative steps, and intraoperative approaches that help us achieve the goal of more favorable outcomes.