Repair of Areolar Defect Following the Excision of Sebaceous Cyst by Applying Kite-Flap: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract: We report a case of a 68-year-old female with a 6-year history of a left medial areolar sebaceous cyst, which progressed to 12.5× 16.2× 8 mm and resulted in a 2.0× 1.5 cm defect after complete excision. A modified kite flap with an optimized length-to-width ratio (1:1.5) and Y-suturing technique was used for repair. The operation lasted 25 minutes with 1 mL blood loss. Postoperatively, the flap achieved primary healing without complications, and bilateral breast symmetry was preserved (< 3 mm diameter difference). At 6-month follow-up, the patient reported 100% satisfaction. This modified technique addresses the core challenges of small areolar defect repair, offering high tissue compatibility, minimal invasiveness, and concealed scarring. Keywords: kite flap, areolar flap reconstruction, case report