Frequently Asked Questions

Aesthetic flat closure (AFC, or “flat closure”) is reconstruction of a smooth chest wall contour post-mastectomy. It involves careful removal of any excess tissue remaining after excision of the glandular tissue, and can also involve contouring of the remaining tissues. The National Cancer Institute recently added aesthetic flat closure to its Dictionary of Cancer Terms.

Aesthetic flat closure refers specifically to the contouring work that is performed after removal of the breast tissue, whether at the initial surgery or at a later timepoint (i.e., revision or explant), to restore a smooth, flat chest wall contour.

You can visit the Provider Resources Page at the Not Putting on a Shirt (NPOAS) website to learn more. This site is continuously updated with the latest news and medically reviewed information about aesthetic flat closure.

The Database several critical functions in improving the standard of patient care in this setting. It facilitates clear communication between patient and provider to help to align expectations; it allows patients facing surgery to visualize what they might look post-operatively; and it provides data for future AFC research and surgical training.

You can use our photo permissions templates (printable and editable) to use with your patients for whom you intend to submit photos. If applicable, check with your institutions’ administrative team to see if they have any additional requirements.

You can order brochures mailed at no charge here.

This website is managed by Not Putting on a Shirt (“NPOAS”), a registered charity promoting an improved standard of care for aesthetic flat closure.

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