Symmetrical breast reconstruction: analysis of secondary procedures after reconstruction with implants and autologous tissue.

In our original article evaluating symmetry in breast reconstruction, we evaluated the role of three-dimensional digital photography.1 Women were stratified into two groups, those who had three-dimensional photography and those who did not. Comparisons included initial volume and contour symmetry, secondary procedures, and final volume and contour symmetry. It was concluded that three-dimensional digital photography was a useful tool in certain situations, such as for postoperative ipsilateral or contralateral volume adjustment following autologous reconstruction and for preoperative determination of implant volume for delayed reconstruction. It was not necessary in most cases, however. Although secondary procedures were analyzed, the analysis was done as it related to three-dimensional digital photography. This follow-up explores the role of secondary procedures in greater detail. Both expander/ implant and autologous tissue reconstruction are studied without regard to three-dimensional digital photography.