Nipple Reconstruction - Sinno Plastic Surgery

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Nipple reconstruction is usually done along with breast reconstruction after a breast removal (mastectomy). At Sinno Center for Plastic Surgery, we can answer your detailed questions about breast and nipple reconstruction. Dr. Sinno will work with you from his initial consultation until your final results to ensure you have the best quality care and the support you need during this time.

WHAT IS NIPPLE RECONSTRUCTION?
Nipple reconstruction is a surgical procedure that rebuilds the nipple and areola tissue. The areola is the darker area surrounding your nipples. We refer to it as the nipple-areola complex.

WHEN IS NIPPLE RECONSTRUCTION USUALLY DONE?
The reconstruction procedure is usually done along with a breast reconstruction surgery. Women seeking a nipple reconstruction usually have lost their nipple-areola complex with a mastectomy.

WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR NIPPLE RECONSTRUCTION?
Most women who have had a breast removed and replaced with breast reconstruction are usually good candidates for a nipple-areola reconstruction. The timing of the reconstruction surgery depends on your own readiness to proceed and the general condition of your overall health.

As with breast reconstruction, the best candidates are women whose cancer seems to have been eliminated with removal of the breast.

HOW IS NIPPLE RECONSTRUCTION DONE?
The procedure is usually done as outpatient under local anesthesia.

A “nipple mound” is created using your own chest tissue. The areola surrounding the nipple is tattooed to achieve the desired color.

WHAT RESULTS CAN YOU EXPECT WITH NIPPLE-AREOLA RECONSTRUCTION?

Your reconstructed nipple and surrounding areola may not look 100% natural. However, most women who have this procedure done say the psychological benefits are significant.

HOW CAN YOU PREPARE FOR NIPPLE RECONSTRUCTION SURGERY?
Many women plan for nipple reconstruction when they are planning for breast reconstruction surgery. Dr. Sinno and the staff at Sinno Center for Plastic Surgery will work closely with your breast surgeon so that you are in the best possible position for nipple reconstruction, along with breast reconstruction after your mastectomy.

Initial consultation for reconstruction
You will have a comprehensive consultation with the staff at the Sinno Center for Plastic Surgery, which includes:

Evaluation of your health
Examination of your chest
Discussion of reconstruction options and implants based on your health, age, anatomy and personal goals
Discussion of potential risks and limitations of the surgery
Outline of how the surgery is done, the anesthesia used for the procedure and what to expect
Details about costs
Answers for any questions you have

Be ready to provide the following information:

Complete medical history
List of medications you take, including use of aspirin and other over the counter medications, vitamins and herbal supplements
Details about your tobacco and alcohol consumption

Before your surgery date

Prepare yourself. Dr. Sinno will give you specific instructions on eating, drinking, smoking, and taking vitamin supplements or using any medications before surgery
Live right. The best way to prepare your body for any surgical procedure is to make healthy lifestyle choices in the weeks beforehand. If you prepare your body for surgery, your “back-to-normal time” is often reduced.
Exercise regularly.
Get adequate sleep.
Eat right.
Take vitamin supplements.
Reduce stress.

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT WHILE YOU ARE HEALING?

You will go home with gauze dressing over your nipple. You will also wear a bra over top of the dressing to protect the surgical site.
The dressing will be removed in 7-10 days.
Expect minor bleeding or oozing (staining of the gauze). Any bleeding beyond that should be reported to Dr. Sinno immediately.
Nipple reconstruction is usually not painful. Any discomfort you have can be easily managed with prescribed pain medication.

Getting back to normal

You can go back to your daily activities within 1 day after the procedure.
You can shower or take a bath 1-2 days after surgery. However, you should not get the dressing wet until you get the okay from Sinno Center for Plastic Surgery.

Diet And Nutrition
Good diet and nutrition will help your body heal better, and faster, after a surgical procedure.

Drink plenty of water or clear fluids; up to 64 ounces a day is recommended
Eat fresh fruits and vegetables with every meal
Eat small amounts of protein with every meal
Eat every 4-5 hours; do not wait longer to eat
Eat more frequent meals, with fewer calories per meal
Eat breakfast within an hour after you get up
Use vitamin supplements, especially antioxidants, to promote healing and renew energy

HOW LONG WILL RESULTS LAST?
Nipple reconstruction is permanent.

WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OR RISKS?
All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. The specific risks and the suitability of this procedure for you can only be determined during your consultation with the doctor prior to performing the procedure.

You can reduce chance of risk by closely following instructions before and after the procedure that are provided by Sinno Center for Plastic Surgery.

Sensation
Nipple reconstruction does not restore normal sensation to your nipples.

Nipple position and color

Reconstructed nipples sometimes stick out more or less than the original or the other nipple.
The new nipple-areola complex may appear slightly off center once completely healed.
Your may see that the color or texture of the reconstructed nipple-areola does not totally match the other breast.

WILL INSURANCE PAY FOR NIPPLE RECONSTRUCTION?
Nipple and breast reconstruction are normally covered by insurance. Check with your provider for details.

ARE THERE ANY ALTERNATIVES TO HAVING NIPPLE RECONSTRUCTION?

Some women choose not to have nipple reconstruction following breast reconstruction. If they look and feel normal in clothes, they see no reason to have the procedure.

NEXT STEPS . . .
Please contact the Sinno Center for Plastic Surgery or set up an appointment with Dr. Sinno to discuss nipple reconstruction. At that time, he can evaluate your needs, and suggest the best plastic surgery options to meet those needs.