Nipple Reconstruction for Breast Cancer Patients

Breast reconstruction is an option for women who have lost one or both breasts due to cancer. Removing the breast and nipple-areola complex is emotionally difficult for any woman. Knowing that reconstructive surgery can restore both the breast and nipple provides these women with a sense of femininity, wholeness, and more than anything, it can help them cope with the emotional and psychological effects of the mastectomy process.

While a nipple-sparing mastectomy may be possible for many women with the diagnosis of breast cancer, some women can not keep their nipple due to the location of the breast cancer. For these women the skin of the breast can be spared but the nipple is removed, along with the breast tissue, to ensure that no cancer cells remain. Therefore, a woman can choose whether or not she wishes to reconstruct the nipple as part of the reconstructive process. While nipple reconstruction is not required, many women opt to do so in order to achieve the look of a natural breast. If nipple reconstruction is something you are interested in, you can physically rebuild the nipple using your own skin, or you can opt for a 3D tattoo that provides an image of a nipple.

Nipple Reconstruction Techniques

For women who want a nipple that looks as realistic as possible and has projection off the breast mound, a nipple can be recreated with various surgical techniques using your own skin. Reconstructive plastic surgeons like Dr. Crosby will discuss with you the technique they prefer.

Once the nipple is created, patients will need a tattoo known as micropigmentation to add the color for both the nipple and the areola. Tattoos are real tattoos done on the reconstructed breast. A variety of pigments and shading techniques are used to achieve a three-dimensional image of a natural nipple/areola complex. Some patients who choose to not have a physically projecting nipple recreated but want the appearance of a nipple on the breast mound may undergo a 3D nipple/areola tattoo. While the tattoo will not have any physical projection, it will give the appearance of a projecting nipple through shading techniques that provide a 3D image. Nipple/areola tattooing is performed once the reconstructed breast has had an appropriate amount of time to heal. It is recommended that you do not get your nipple tattoo until you are satisfied with your breast reconstruction.

Nipple/areola tattoos are non-surgical and do not require any downtime. Patients who choose this method may return to their normal schedules the following day. These tattoos are long lasting but may fade with time, just like any tattoo. Additional pigment and shading can be added in the future to provide a touch up as needed.

Why Consider Nipple Reconstruction?

Just like breast reconstruction, nipple reconstruction is a personal decision. It isn’t a requirement that you rebuild the nipple; it is an option during the reconstructive process of recreating a breast. While a reconstructed nipple will never have the sensation of a natural nipple, the resemblance to one can do wonders for your self-esteem and self-image. Your cancer treatment can be a difficult journey, but know that reconstructive options are available to help you feel comfortable and confident with your new breast appearance, whatever that may be.

To learn more about nipple reconstruction, contact Dr. Melissa Crosby by calling (832) 939-8500 to set up a consultation.