Autologous breast augmentation with the deepithelialized fasciocutaneous infragluteal free flap: a 10-year experience.

[INTRODUCTION] Breast augmentation with silicone implants is frequently performed, a daily procedure in plastic surgery. Nevertheless, there are well-known risks of capsular formation and contraction leading to pain, displacement, and rupture after breast augmentation. Thus, the frequency of augmentation with autologous tissue is increasing. Most frequently used are the transverse rectus abdominis muscle flap, the deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap, and the gracilis free flap, but in some cases, these flaps are not the first choice. Therefore, we present our experience with the free fasciocutaneous infragluteal (FCI) flap.

[METHODS] The FCI flap is based on a constant end artery of the inferior gluteal artery and has frequently been used for various indications at our department for many years. Since 1998, 17 patients suffering from breast hypoplasia, congenital breast asymmetry, or consecutive capsular fibrosis were treated with 25 FCI flaps.

[RESULTS] In this series, no complete or partial flap loss was clinically detected. The only complaint was a discomfort at the donor site in the early postoperative period. As revealed by a final questionnaire, all patients were satisfied with the result.

[CONCLUSION] Our results suggest that the FCI flap should be considered as a worthy alternative for autologous breast augmentation, especially in thin patients suffering from breast hypoplasia, congenital asymmetry, or consecutive capsular formations.