Answer:
Robert Wise introduced an approach to mammoplasty planning using mechanical aids he devised based on the brassiere which allowed for a more consistent and aesthetic result. He demonstrated that the base of the breast is not a perfect circle but rather it is pulled out eccentrically in the direction of the pectoral muscle insertions. In axial cross-section the breast is not a perfect cone, but skewed medially. Based on these observations, he introduced three devices. The first is a plastic ring used to mark the base of the breast so that the second device, a flexible pattern (known today as the Wise pattern) can be placed to mark out the skin flaps on the superior breast. A third device consisting of two concentric rings (corresponding to the circumferences of the nipple and periphery of the planned breast) connected by four struts was used to determine the amount of breast tissue to be removed. Tissue which protruded through the windows between the struts was excised. Of these, the second device is still commonly used in pre-operative planning and marking.