Symmastia, a condition characterized by the convergence of breast tissues in the midline, can significantly impact a patient’s self-esteem. While it’s a relatively uncommon condition, it requires specialized surgical intervention for correction. Let’s delve into a recent study that offers valuable insights into the treatment of symmastia. 

Understanding Symmastia 

Symmastia can be either congenital (present at birth) or acquired (developed later in life, often due to breast augmentation surgery). It can lead to a variety of aesthetic concerns, including a lack of cleavage, a distorted breast shape, and discomfort. 

Enter The Aquino Technique 

A recent study by Aquino et al. presents a surgical approach for correcting this condition. The technique involves creating a thin skin flap and attaching it to the sternum to reconstruct the intermammary V-shaped region.  

This approach has been successfully applied to both congenital and acquired symmastia in a large cohort of patients, with the majority of patients reporting significant improvement in their body image and overall quality of life following the procedure. 

Factors such as the severity of symmastia, personal goals, and overall health will influence the surgical plan. 

Symmastia can be a challenging condition, but effective surgical treatments are available. The Aquino technique offers a promising approach for correcting this aesthetic concern. By understanding the condition, the surgical options, and the potential outcomes, surgeons can provide optimal patient care for treatment of this condition. 

SOURCES: BreastCancer.org, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Journal