How to redefine the inframammary fold: the "slingshot" capsular flap.

[BACKGROUND] Caudal dislocation of the inframammary fold (IMF) affects cosmetic appearance of the breast. Up until now, few methods have been proposed. The authors introduced a new capsular flap to improve long-lasting results.

[MATERIALS AND METHODS] Thirty consecutive patients affected by lower dislocation of the IMF have been retrospectively evaluated. Patients have been classified for age, degree of capsular contracture, and IMF dislocation (measured in centimeters). All dislocations have been corrected using a capsular flap cranially advanced on the chest wall in a "slingshot" fashion and anchored to the periosteum of the IV to V rib.

[RESULTS] No major complications have been registered. In 2 cases, recurrence of IMF dislocation occurred within 15 months. In 3 cases, hypodefinition of the fold in the long-term was recorded.

[CONCLUSIONS] The slingshot capsular flap seems a valid option to redefine the IMF, improving aesthetic appearance and stability of the result.