Whether you have an autologous (your own tissues), alloplastic (implant-based) or combined breast reconstruction, nipple reconstruction options are available. The surgery is done as a day procedure often under local anaesthetic only. Local skin is manipulated into the shape of a nipple. Once the wounds have healed, a medical tattooist colours the skin. This permanent nipple reconstruction is often so good that it is barely perceptible to the untrained eye.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING AND AFTER SURGERY
This is done as a day procedure and often under local anaesthetic as an in rooms procedure. The procedure itself takes about 30 minutes. The wounds will heal over a 2 week period. It is important to note that literature reflects that up to 50% of the nipple height may be lost when reviewed at 12 months. The medical tattoo can be applied at approximately the 2 month mark.
At your 3-month review, Dr Farhadieh will examine the nipples to ensure that you have healed well. You can use this time to ask Dr Farhadieh any questions or concerns that you may have. At this appointment, postoperative photographs will be taken.
The team here at Panthea Clinics will give you a call to book you in for subsequent reviews, as Dr Farhadieh likes to see his patients again 6 – 9 months postoperatively. However, please feel free to give us a call at any time to schedule an appointment if you wish to speak to Dr Farhadieh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you had a flap or implant reconstruction, the skin overlying the new breast mound is often numb. Nipple reconstruction is carried out as a day procedure performed under local anaesthetic only or with sedation. Postoperative pain is rare.
This is a day procedure. You will be able to go back to work the next day and resume all normal activities.
According to the literature, the majority of nipple reconstructions lose up to 50% of their height within the first 12 months despite surgical provisions for this possibility. There are means of remedying this, should it happen.
