No abstract

This paper discusses a technique for the treatment of helical tumors that most times occur in aging patients with precarious clinical conditions and who wish to solve the problem in a single-stage operation. For these reasons, we have used a chondrocutaneous marginal flap of up to 4.0 cm in length based on the artery of the lobe that penetrates the helix at the level of the antitragushelicin cleft. This flap is also convenient for repairing circumscribed traumatic injuries of the helical rim.

Aesthetic alterations of the pubic area, whether constitutional or the result of excessive weight, if not treated, may become more evident after an abdominoplasty. The authors recommend a simple and effective technique to be performed simultaneously with abdominoplasty that leads to satisfactory results and does not interfere with the lymphatic drainage of the area.

Background: Depression in the anterior wall of the axilla following mastectomy is dis tressing to patients when they wear summer clothing and may also cause difficulty in raising the arm if there are adhesions and retractions in the region. In these patients, we use supplementary implants that reconstitute the local anatomy in a satisfactory manner and which offer functional benefits by removing cicatricial adhesions. These implants are available in several sizes and volumes, and it is possible to use more than one prosthesis in the same location, if needed. The aim of this study is to report the experience of the Plastic Surgery Unit of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil) with the use of supplementary implants in breast reconstruction after mastectomy to improve the aesthetic appearance and function of the axillary region. Methods: Supplementary silicone implants were inserted for breast reconstruction following mastectomy in 6 female patients, aged 34 to 75 years. The volume of the implants ranged from 20 mL to 120 mL. The width, length, and depth of the axillary region were measured to define the volume and dimensions, as well as the number of implants to be used. The implants were inserted through the scar from the prior breast reconstruction. Results: The followup period ranged from 6 months to 8 years, and no capsular contracture was observed. All patients reported functional improvement in arm movement, as well as satisfaction with the aesthetic result, which allowed them to wear more revealing clothing. Conclusions: The inclusion of semilunar silicone implants as a refinement in breast reconstruction is easy to perform, has predictable results, and requires only one surgical procedure. The implants may be replaced, augmented, or removed, as required.