Temporary external skin plication: a helpful new technique in gynecomastia surgery.

[OBJECTIVE] The aim of this study was to elucidate the external temporary skin plication (ETSP) technique in gynecomastia surgery and evaluate its role in mitigating complications and enhancing cosmetic outcomes.

[PATIENTS AND METHODS] This study was conducted on patients diagnosed with gynecomastia, explicitly falling under Rohrich Grades IIB and III, with dermal quality being a crucial determinant. Between September 2018 and November 2021, surgical interventions were performed on 96 qualifying patients by the senior author. The operative protocol consisted of ultrasonic and suction-assisted liposuction, supplemented by lateral periareolar piecemeal gland excision. Within the cohort, 42 patients were subjected to the novel ETSP technique. In contrast, the remaining 54 patients underwent standard treatment, serving as the control group for subsequent comparative assessment.

[RESULTS] One patient required revisions for contour irregularities, while partial nipple necrosis was observed in two patients but healed without surgical intervention. However, saucer-like deformity and total nipple necrosis were not observed in our series. The overall complication rate in our series was 19%, with 9.5% of cases requiring revision. In our control group, the overall complication rate in our series was found to be 22%, with 13% of cases requiring revision.

[CONCLUSIONS] ETSP provides a homogeneous spread of the excess skin and greatly reduces or eliminates the amount of skin fold formation. ETSP reduces the need for possible skin excision and reduces visible scars and incisions, and it helps improve the results of skin-protective surgeries that are widespread today.