Back to 2026 Abstracts
Aesthetic Flat Closure After Mastectomy: A Retrospective Case Series and Technical Approach
Thomas J. Sorenson, Carter Boyd, Lauren E. Romanowski
*, Kshipra Hemal, Oriana Cohen, Mihye Choi, Nolan S. Karp
Hansjorg Wyss Department of Plastic Surgery, New York University-Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY
BackgroundAesthetic flat closure (AFC) is an increasingly accepted reconstructive option following oncologic mastectomy, highlighted by a smooth, contoured chest wall without excess tissue or dog ears. Despite growing patient demand, limited literature exists detailing surgical technique or outcomes.
MethodsWe conducted a retrospective review of patients who underwent planned AFC between Jan 2020 and July 2025 at our institution. Demographics, operative details, postoperative complications, and need for revision were collected. Key technical considerations include mastectomy incision placement, skin redraping and dog ear management.
ResultsA total of 64 patients (81 breasts) underwent AFC during the study period. The mean age was 69 years, and average BMI was 27 kg/m
2. Most procedures were performed for therapeutic skin sparing mastectomy (95%). The most common incision patterns was an extended ellipse (95%). The major surgical complication rate was 1.5% with minor complications including seroma (13%), skin flap necrosis (11%), hematoma (1.5%), and surgical site infection (1.5%). 5% of patients required a revision for improved contour or excess tissue removal. Patient satisfaction, where documented, was high.
ConclusionAesthetic flat closure is a viable and patient-centered reconstructive approach after mastectomy but requires deliberate planning and technical precision. Particular attention must be paid to chest contour, incision symmetry, and excess tissue to regularly achieve a high-quality flat aesthetic. Our series highlights reproducible techniques and supports AFC as a valuable option for post-mastectomy reconstruction in select patients.
Models adjusted for BMI, tissue expander size, and axillary irradiation. OR > 1 indicates higher odds with early exchange.
Back to 2026 Abstracts
Models adjusted for BMI, tissue expander size, and axillary irradiation. OR > 1 indicates higher odds with early exchange.
