The ‘Cleavage Imprinting’ Technique for Ensuring Mirror Image Medial Scar Symmetry in Reduction Mammoplasty

Abstract

A key step in the inverted T-scar pattern breast reduction technique is the preoperative marking of the medial skin incision which will ultimately become the medial aspect of the horizontal scar in the new inframammary fold. We describe the 'cleavage imprinting' technique that allows the surgeon to generate mirror-image medial imprint marks on the contralateral breast during preoperative marking. Using photographs from two clinical cases we demonstrate that this simple, inexpensive, easily learnt and reproducible method is a handy way of improving the symmetry of the medial incision borders in mammaplasty. Although it is not a novel technique, its widespread employment being a testament to its usefulness, to our knowledge it has not previously been described in the literature.