skin-sparing mastectomy
Mastectomy technique that preserves the breast skin envelope while removing breast tissue and nipple-areolar complex, facilitating immediate reconstruction.
Full Definition
A surgical approach to mastectomy that removes all breast tissue and the nipple-areolar complex while preserving the native breast skin envelope, including the inframammary fold and lateral breast borders. This technique maintains the natural breast footprint and contours, providing an optimal foundation for immediate breast reconstruction with improved aesthetic outcomes. The preserved skin envelope reduces the need for extensive tissue expansion and allows for better implant positioning and natural breast shape restoration.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate as shown; distinguish clearly from nipple-sparing mastectomy which preserves NAC.
In Context
- "Skin-sparing mastectomy with immediate reconstruction provided excellent aesthetic outcomes for the prophylactic case." — Oncoplastic surgery report
- "The patient was an ideal candidate for skin-sparing mastectomy given the absence of skin involvement." — Surgical candidacy assessment