Minimally-invasive mastoplasty procedure using multiple barbed sutures and apparatus

Abstract

Medical devices and methods are provided for a minimally-invasive mastoplasty procedure. In the procedure, a plurality of barbed sutures are used to accomplish the mastoplasty through puncture wounds by deploying the sutures caudally from stable anatomical features into the breast tissue and then advancing the tissues relative to the sutures.

Description

CLAIM TO PRIORITY [0001] This application claims benefit to U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 833,999, filed Jul. 28, 2006, entitled “Minimally-Invasive Mastoplasty Procedure (Attorney Docket No. ANGIO-01006US0). This application is incorporated by reference and in its entirety.BACKGROUND OF INVENTION [0002] This invention relates to minimally-invasive methods and medical devices for performing cosmetic breast surgery or mastoplasty. More, specifically, the invention provides methods and devices for performing breast and nipple-lifts and contouring the surface of the breast without the need for open surgery. [0003] A breast-lift (mastopexy) is usually performed for drooping breasts (mastoptosis), which may occur with age, after weight-loss or after a woman has had children. The skin loses its elasticity and the breasts lose their firmness and shape as they sag under the effects of gravity. The degree of droop or ptosis is measured by how far the nipple has fallen below the inframa...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The invention is about a minimally-invasive method and medical device for performing cosmetic breast surgery or mastoplasty without the need for open surgery. The method involves using a suture to perform the procedure and the device includes a suture and a needle for the procedure. The method and device provide several advantages such as reducing pain, discomfort, and recovery time for the patient, reducing the risk of scarring and infection, and improving the aesthetic appearance of the breast."

Problems solved by technology

It is a disadvantage of the mastopexy procedure that it requires long incisions, and, although care is taken to reduce scarring, some scarring is usually evident.

A further disadvantage is that the long incisions and exposed tissues create a risk of post-operative infection.

Thus, the open mastopexy procedure requires a lengthy hospital stay and an even longer convalescence period in which the patient may not be able to work.

The patient may suffer discomfort in this period after the procedure, requiring further medication.

Possible side effect of the procedure, include scarring and temporary loss of sensation in the breast skin and nipples.

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