The Rule of 11%: A New Approach to Breast Surgery Planning Published in PRS
The Rule of 11%: A New Approach to Breast Surgery Planning Published in PRS
We are pleased to share an important milestone in
our ongoing breast surgery research.
A study by Jae Woo Kim, MD, PhD, and Jae Jin Ock, MD, PhD, from THE Plastic Surgery, was published in the March issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery,
widely known as PRS.
PRS is the official journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and is internationally recognized in the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery.
The study was also recently featured in a Korean medical newspaper, bringing further attention to its potential value in breast surgery planning.
What Is the Rule of 11%?
The study introduces a measurement-based method
called the Rule of 11%.
In breast reduction and breast lift surgery, determining the appropriate nipple position is an important part of the surgical design.
The Rule of 11% was developed to help surgeons identify the breast meridian, which guides the horizontal position of the nipple.
Rather than relying only on visual judgment,
this method uses measurable features of the patient’s
body, including chest width and chest circumference.
Because every patient has a different body shape, breast width, and chest structure, one fixed measurement cannot be applied to everyone.
A method based on each patient’s individual anatomy may help surgeons create a more consistent and personalized surgical plan.
Why the Breast Meridian Matters
The breast meridian is an important reference point when planning the position and overall balance of the breast.
During breast reduction or breast lift surgery,
the goal is not simply to reduce or lift the breast.
The surgeon must also consider breast width, chest proportions, symmetry, nipple position, and how the final shape will fit the patient’s body.
The Rule of 11% provides a practical way to estimate the horizontal nipple position using measurable anatomical information.
This can support more predictable and repeatable surgical planning while still allowing the surgeon to consider each patient’s unique needs.
Of course, no single formula can replace a surgeon’s experience, judgment, or detailed examination.
The Rule of 11% is intended to serve as an additional guide—not as a one-size-fits-all solution.
From Research to Patient-Centered Planning
Good breast surgery begins long before the operation itself.
Careful measurements, a clear understanding of the patient’s goals, and an individualized surgical design all play an important role in achieving a balanced result.
Research like this helps turn clinical experience into a more structured approach that can be studied, shared, and improved.
For patients, this means that surgical planning can be based not only on appearance, but also on measurable anatomical factors.
The Research Continues
This publication is not the final step.
A follow-up study is now exploring the ideal vertical position of the nipple and how it can be applied to breast surgery design.
Together, research on both horizontal and vertical positioning may contribute to a more complete and reliable planning method in the future.
At THE Plastic Surgery, research, surgical experience,
and careful planning remain central to patient care.
The goal is to continue developing better methods and providing each patient with treatment that is thoughtful, personalized, and supported by ongoing medical research.
This article is intended for general educational purposes. Surgical plans and expected outcomes vary depending on each patient’s anatomy, health, and individual goals.
A personal consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon is necessary before treatment.
