Nipple Reconstruction

Overview of Nipple Reconstruction Surgery

This is the last step after mastectomy in terms of breast reconstruction. It is a minor operation performed under local anesthesia. It is an optional operation, however, it gives the final aesthetic result to the restored breast, as in most cases it is performed a few months after the restorative surgery. In our clinic, however, it is preferred that nipple reconstruction surgeries be performed at the same time as immediate breast reconstruction surgeries.

Nipple reconstruction surgery can be performed either with a local flap or with an implant from the other nipple.

Its advantage is that it does not need anaesthesia, as the skin of the area has lost all sensations and can be performed as part of day care. Initially, we create a relatively larger nipple as it will shrink during the first six to nine months.

Nipple reconstruction with local flap

In our clinic, we prefer to use skin grafts from the restored breast which are wrapped around themselves, in order to create a new nipple.

Nipple reconstruction with an implant from the other nipple

This surgery involves removing half of the nipple from the other healthy breast (when the other nipple is large), and transplanting it into the regenerated breast, just as with a skin graft.

Then, about eight to twelve weeks after nipple restoration, regardless of the method, the areola (the colored ring around the nipple) is formed using a tattoo that uses dyes that are combined with the color of the nipple. of the unilateral breast. It should be noted that the procedure may need to be repeated as the color of the tattoo may fade.

Artificial Nipple

Another option is to use an artificial rubber nipple, which will be created based on the unilateral nipple, thus offering a believable aesthetic result.

Medication

In our clinic, a complete medical history is always taken before each surgery. As a precaution, over-the-counter medicines or herbal products should not be taken before and for 3 days after surgery. It is also considered necessary to avoid taking non-steroid, anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin (salospir), ibuprofen (Nurofen), diclofenac, and any other anticoagulant or antiplatelet drug.

Smoking

If you are a smoker you should try to stop smoking for at least 1 week before and 1 week after the surgery as this will dramatically reduce the incidence of postoperative complications and help achieve the best possible result.

Recovery Time and End result

Duration of the procedure

Depending on the type of operation, the duration may vary from 30 to 45 minutes.

Duration of hospitalization

No hospitalization is required and you will be able to walk immediately after the operation.

Refraining from exercising

You will be able to resume exercising after two weeks.

Recovery time

It will depend on whether it is a primary or delayed reconstruction (three months in the first case and two weeks in the second).

Failure

There is a 2% chance of a partial or complete failure of the nipple reconstruction surgery.

Bandages

You will need to have some gauzes on the nipple and breast for two to three weeks.

Driving

Patients who have undergone nipple reconstruction surgery should ideally avoid driving until they are completely free of any discomfort or restriction, in order to be able to make a sudden movement, such as braking, freely and without any pain. This parameter is proposed so that patients can secure coverage from their insurance company in case of an accident. Thus, it may take up to two weeks for them to fully recover. There are of course patients who feel able to drive after 4-5 days, but always at their own risk.

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any further questions.