The Effect of Kinesiotape Application on Wound Healing and Implant Exposure in Patients Undergoing Single-Session Augmentation Mastopexy.

[BACKGROUND] Single-stage augmentation mastopexy carries a risk of wound dehiscence and implant exposure due to the inherent skin tension associated with simultaneous lifting and volume enhancement. Kinesiotape has been proposed as an adjunctive method to reduce mechanical stress on healing wounds. This study aims to evaluate the effects of kinesiotape application on early wound healing and implant exposure in patients undergoing single-stage augmentation mastopexy.

[METHODS] Forty-five patients aged 27 to 49 underwent single-session augmentation mastopexy using the inverted-T (Wise-pattern) technique. At the end of surgery, kinesiotape was applied in three standardized patterns. The tape remained in place until postoperative day 21. Patients were monitored for 3, 7, 14, and 21 days postoperatively for complications including wound dehiscence, delayed healing, implant exposure, and local reactions.

[RESULTS] No patients experienced wound dehiscence or implant exposure. Two patients (4.4%) developed localized erythema, which resolved spontaneously. No allergic reactions to kinesiotape were recorded. Compared with complication rates reported in previous studies, our cohort showed a 0% incidence of wound dehiscence and implant exposure.

[CONCLUSION] Kinesiotape appears to be a safe and potentially effective method to support wound healing in augmentation mastopexy. Further studies with larger sample sizes are needed to validate its clinical benefits.

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