Preventing venous congestion of the nipple-areola complex: An anatomical guide to preserving essential venous drainage networks

Abstract

Background: Venous congestion leading to partial or total nipple necrosis is a relatively uncommon complication of breast reduction and mastopexy procedures but still occurs, particularly in larger reduction procedures. This is largely preventable if the surgeon has an understanding of the venous drainage to the nipple and carefully preserves it. Methods: An anatomical study was undertaken on 16 fresh female cadaveric breast specimens. The venous drainage of the breast was explored through vascular injection, radiographic, and cross-sectional studies. Results: The venous drainage of the breast consists of an extensive network of vessels. The nipple-areola complex is drained by a superficial ..