Introduction

Batwing mastopexy provides an oncoplastic breast-conserving approach to the management of large upper breast tumours. A large wide local excision can be achieved with satisfactory cosmesis by lifting the breast tissue and nipple-areolar complex to fill the defect. This is a volume displacement technique and can be performed with a symmetrising contralateral breast reduction procedure.

Methods

We present a retrospective analysis of all batwing mastopexy procedures performed at Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust. Data on tumour and breast size alongside operative factors including duration of surgery, recovery time and cosmetic outcome is presented. Duration of surgery and wound complications were compared with those associated with wise-pattern mammoplasty over the same time period. 

Results

Batwing mastopexy was performed with or without preservation of the nipple-areolar complex depending on tumour proximity. Patients reported high levels of satisfaction with the resultant breast shape and scar pattern. Wound complication rates are low with this technique and operative procedure time is on average shorter than for wise-pattern mammoplasty procedures.

Conclusions

Batwing mastopexy is a breast-conserving approach that produces highly satisfactory cosmetic outcomes with a low complication rate and allows excision of upper breast tumours that may otherwise necessitate mastectomy. The technique is easier and simpler to perform than the wise-pattern approach and associated with fewer wound complications. It carries a reduced operative procedure time and therefore serves as a good alternative to mastectomy in the higher anaesthetic risk patient group.