After breast reconstruction procedures or mastectomy, women typically lose one or both of their nipples. However, there are several solutions for women who want their nipples reconstructed. Nipple reconstruction in Phoenix is performed by qualified plastic surgeons and they represent an important step in the overall breast reconstruction process.

Since breast reconstruction and nipple reconstruction are completely different procedures, plastic surgeons would recommend waiting at least 3-4 months before undergoing nipple reconstruction. In some cases, breast and nipple reconstruction can be done at the same time, but it can result in poor positioning of new nipples. It is crucial to note that reconstructed nipples don’t have the same sensations and responses as natural ones. However, women still choose this procedure because it gives them a sense of completion and satisfaction.

If you are currently looking for a plastic surgeon who can help you with this procedure, schedule a consultation with Dr. Rimma Finkel in Phoenix!

What is Nipple Reconstruction?

Before making any decisions, it’s essential to know what nipple reconstruction is, its results, benefits, and potential risks. In simple terms, nipple reconstruction is a surgical procedure that involves creating a new nipple of tissue from other areas of the body or reshaping the existing breast tissue. The primary advantage of surgical nipple reconstruction is that it creates a more natural look. It is usually an outpatient procedure performed under the local anesthesia. Women who had a mastectomy or other procedures that required nipple removal should wait a few months before nipple reconstruction to let their bodies heal properly from the initial procedure.

In medical terms, nipple reconstruction involves elevating the skin and folding it to create a nipple-like ‘nub’. This skin elevation is known as ‘elevating a flap’ and there are many flaps available for nipple reconstruction. Depending on the patient’s needs and wishes, plastic surgeons may use different flap designs. Even though the final outcome closely resembles an actual nipple, patients must be aware that reconstructed nipples lose sensation and the ability to react to temperature changes. 

In the following paragraphs, we will talk about various nipple reconstruction options, recovery, preparation, and other essential information. So, stay with us to discover more about this topic!

Nipple Reconstruction Options

First of all, nipple reconstruction is completely optional and the final outcome depends on the state of new breast tissue and patients’ preferences. This procedure can be surgical or non-surgical, while surgical procedures typically create better and more natural results. Here are more ways in which nipples can be reconstructed:

• Skin Flap: This technique involves raising small flaps of skin from the area where the nipple is intended to be and forming it into a mound to create a nipple. Skin, fat, or synthetic fillers can be used to create a more elevated nipple look.
• Skin Graft: In cases when there isn’t enough tissue on the new breast to create a nipple, skin grafting can be performed. This technique involves using the skin from other body parts, such as the thighs or abdomen, and transplanting it to the breast area.              
• Autologous Graft: In this technique, the portion of the nipple from the unaffected nipple is extracted and grafted to form a new nipple. This is only possible if the nipple from the unaffected breast is large enough to be extracted.
• Medical Tattooing: Medical nipple tattooing is a perfect solution for patients who are not suitable for surgical procedures or who want to avoid additional surgeries. This procedure involves inserting specialized pigment into the skin to create a realistic and natural-looking nipple and areola. Nipple tattooing doesn’t leave any scars and the healing process is faster and easier. Additionally, experienced nipple tattoo artists are able to add fine details and color to nipples and areola and create a more lifelike appearance. On the other hand, tattooed nipples cannot be elevated and they stay flat on touch. Also, tattooing typically has to be performed several times in order to achieve desired results.

Nipple-Sparing

Nipple-sparing mastectomy is a surgical procedure in which the breast tissue is removed while the nipple and areola are preserved. This procedure can be effective if cancer cells aren’t found underneath the nipple and areola.

The goal of this procedure is to preserve the natural appearance of breasts and nipples as much as possible while still removing breast tissue due to cancer. To ensure potential cancerous cells and tissue are gone, surgeons may remove a small amount of tissue around the nipple. But still, 30-60% of women who undergo nipple-sparing mastectomy are likely to feel original sensations in the nipples.

However, nipple-sparing mastectomy is not suitable for women whose cancer is located near the nipple or for those who had previously had breast surgeries. There are additional risks and complications that follow this procedure, such as bleeding, infections, changes in nipple sensations, and the risk of cancer recurrence. 

Who is a Good Candidate for Nipple Reconstruction?

Nipple reconstruction surgery is convenient for women who lost their nipples and want to feel more confident and satisfied after mastectomy and breast reconstruction procedures.

Nipple reconstruction is optimal for women who are in good general health and have realistic expectations about the outcome. Before undergoing nipple reconstruction, women should be fully healed from previous procedures and free of infections and complications. It is also important that women have sufficient amounts of breast tissue to support the extraction and transplantation.

Also, women who still undergo breast cancer and radiation treatments are not suitable candidates and should wait until the treatments are fully complete. Women who smoke or have a history of chronic conditions may not be adequate candidates for nipple reconstruction.

However, the decision to undergo this surgery should be made through consultations with a plastic surgeon. During your consultation with Dr. Finkel in Phoenix, AZ, she will thoroughly evaluate your breast and skin quality to determine the best treatment option for you.

How To Prepare for Surgery

Nipple reconstruction is typically performed under local anesthesia in the doctor’s office. To be fully prepared for the surgery, patients will receive strict advice and instructions from their surgeons and acknowledge and consider the following steps:

• Schedule consultations with your plastic surgeon. He or she will thoroughly evaluate your health and individual goals and needs. You will receive accurate information about the risks and benefits of the procedure. Your surgeon may also require blood tests, imaging scans, or other diagnostic tests to determine if you are suitable for the procedure.
• You should consider quitting smoking entirely or at least for several weeks before and after the surgery. Smoking significantly slows down and interferes with the healing process and increases the risks of complications.
• Your surgeon may advise you not to eat or drink for a specific period of time before the procedure, as well as to avoid taking medications on the day of the surgery.
• You should avoid applying deodorant, lotion, or scented products before the surgery.
• You should make sure to follow post-operative instructions and arrange for transportation after the surgery. Nipple reconstruction requires a few weeks of recovery, so it is crucial to have someone to assist you during this period.
• Prepare your home for the recovery period. This involves setting up a comfortable recovery area, stocking up on the necessary supplies, and making modifications to your living space.

Remember to follow the exact instructions from your surgeon after the procedure and regularly go to follow-up appointments. By sticking to these steps you will ensure a smooth, speedy, and comfortable recovery.

Recovery

The recovery time after nipple reconstruction varies depending on the type of procedure and the patient’s health condition. In general, the surgery itself takes around an hour to complete and patients can go home the following or the same day. In the first few hours after the surgery, patients may experience minor discomfort and pain which can be mitigated with pain relievers.

• It is essential that patients allow their bodies to heal naturally. That involves a lot of resting, avoiding strenuous exercise, and keeping a body hydrated. 
• Reconstructed nipples may feel tender and vulnerable at first, but as they heal, they will flatten. A plastic surgeon will sew a nipple protector to cover nipples after the surgery to prevent them from any unwanted external effects. After a while, the stitches and nipple protector will be removed.
• Plastic surgeons will recommend wearing a medical bra, sports bra, or compression garment for a few days after the surgery to support and protect breasts.
• Recovery from nipple tattooing is relatively quick and straightforward. Women can feel that their nipples are sore, as well as mild discomfort and flakiness. They should keep the tattooed area clean and dry and avoid tight clothes. 
• Various factors, such as a patient’s general health and the type of procedure will lead to different outcomes. In any case, any serious pain, bleeding, or other emergencies should be immediately reported to the doctor. During the recovery period, women should avoid using scented soaps and other harsh chemicals when cleaning new nipples, as well as soaking in swimming pools and hot tubs.
• Your doctor will provide you with everything you need to know to make your recovery as quick as possible. Careful maintenance, following the doctor’s instructions, and attending follow-ups are crucial for a full recovery.

Cost

The Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA) is a federal law that guarantees insurance policies and group health plans to cover mastectomies, as well as reconstructive procedures. However, there may be some challenges when getting health insurance to cover nipple reconstruction. Nipple reconstruction is usually a separate procedure from mastectomy, which means it may also require a separate insurance authorization.

However, the cost of nipple reconstruction depends on the state and the doctor performing the surgery. Typically, you can expect the price to be around $2,000 dollars. The cost of medical tattooing ranges from $350-$2,500.

Side effects

Even though nipple reconstruction is considered a relatively safe procedure, patients should always be aware of possible risks and complications. They include: 

• Bleeding, swelling, scarring, and mild pain
• Flattening or retraction of the nipple
• Infections at the site of the surgery
• Changes in sensations and nipple appearance

Frequently asked questions about nipple reconstruction in Phoenix

What type of bra should I wear after nipple reconstruction?

You shouldn’t wear any bra for the first week after the nipple reconstruction in order to avoid putting pressure on the new nipple. After the surgery, Dr. Finkel will place a padded gauze dressing on your new nipple. After the dressing is removed, you will be advised to wear a soft bra with no underwire for the next 1-2 weeks.

Do I have to undergo general anesthesia for nipple reconstruction?

Nipple reconstruction doesn’t require general anesthesia. The procedure can be performed under sedation or local anesthesia (injections only). Once you meet Dr. Finkel, you will discuss possible options.

Nipple Reconstruction

Ultimately, it is up to every individual woman who survived cancer or had breast reconstruction surgery to opt for nipple reconstruction. You may feel overwhelmed and drained from previous surgeries to consider having another one. Anyway, nipple reconstruction should wait for a while after other surgeries.

Fortunately, you can always contact Dr. Finkel in Phoenix to get professional and suitable advice and assistance when it comes to nipple reconstruction or any other procedure. 

If you have any questions or concerns, or you simply want to learn more about nipple reconstruction and discuss your options, reach out to Dr. Finkel today.

Dr. Finkel is one of the few female plastic surgeons in the greater Phoenix area. She provides a unique approach to her patients with aesthetic, age-related, or reconstructive requirements. She will make you comfortable, relaxed, and ready to experience your full potential in a worry-free environment.

Contact us in Phoenix, AZ, to schedule your first nipple reconstruction consultation with Dr. Finkel today!