Early Experiences With the Buttonhole Modification of the Double-Incision Technique for Gender-Affirming Mastectomies.

Abstract

Little has been published about transmasculine and nonbinary gender-affirming mastectomies, particularly for patients with skin excess who desire reliable vascularity and sensation to the nipple-areolar complex. In this case series, we describe our experiences with the "buttonhole technique." This was a retrospective case series of all consecutive patients who had a buttonhole mastectomy by a single surgeon. This technique maintains the nipple-areolar complex on a dermal pedicle rather than using a free nipple graft. Seventeen patients were included, with ages ranging from 21 to 49 years (median, 28 years). There were no major complications. Four patients had minor complications and/or required revision. The buttonhole technique should be considered for transmasculine and nonbinary patients with skin excess who are concerned about nipple vascularity and sensation.