Batwing versus Wise pattern mammoplasty for upper pole breast tumours: a detailed comparison of cosmetic outcome

BACKGROUND The aim of this study is to compare the results of batwing mammoplasty and Wise pattern mammoplasty in the surgical management of upper pole breast tumours. METHODS This is a retrospective observational study including 126 breast cancer patients who presented between 2009 and 2015 to the National Cancer Institute of Cairo University in Egypt. All patients were candidates for breast conservation, with upper pole tumours, which was defined as tumours between 3 and 9 o'clock. Patients were categorized into two groups. Group A (64) included patients who underwent inferiorly based therapeutic mammoplasty, while group B (62) was designated for patients who had batwing mammoplasty. The results of both groups were compared and analyzed. RESULTS Wise pattern mammoplasty group had statistically significant higher complication rate. The overall aesthetic result of Wise pattern technique was superior to batwing mammoplasty. However, batwing mammoplasty showed a statistically significant higher rate of patient satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS Both techniques are valid options for upper pole breast tumours. Wise pattern therapeutic mammoplasty remains aesthetically superior; however, batwing mammoplasty is an easy, simple technique with acceptable results to patients.