Use of Mammoplasty to Treat a Recurrent Breast Abscess: Improving Cosmetic Outcomes by Incorporating Principles of Oncoplastic Breast Surgery.
Ceri Gillett, Sima Patel, Ehsanur Rahman
Abstract
Open AccessChronic inflammatory breast disease, including recurrent mastitis, can significantly affect both physical and psychological well-being. Complications such as chronic abscesses and fistula formation often necessitate multiple surgical interventions, resulting in scarring, deformity, and patient distress. Optimal management remains challenging when medical therapy fails. We present two cases of chronic breast abscesses managed with oncoplastic techniques using bilateral mammoplasty, highlighting the potential for both disease resolution and favourable cosmetic outcomes. Clinical records were reviewed via the institutional web portal. A targeted literature search was conducted using PubMed. Two patients with recurrent breast abscesses unresponsive to conservative management underwent bilateral mammoplasty. Clinical outcomes, including resolution of infection and aesthetic results, were evaluated. Both patients achieved complete resolution of chronic abscesses with no recurrence at follow-up. Aesthetic outcomes were satisfactory, with preservation of breast contour and minimal scarring. Patients reported improved psychological well-being and quality of life. Mammoplasty represents a viable surgical option for selected patients with chronic breast abscesses refractory to conventional management. By incorporating oncoplastic principles, this approach can provide definitive treatment while maintaining favourable cosmetic outcomes. Further prospective studies are warranted to evaluate the efficacy and long-term outcomes of radical surgical interventions in this patient population.