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If it is unlikely that your nipple or the tissues behind
it contain any cancer cells, then it is probable that it can
be preserved. However, a nipple can also be reconstructed
but is usually done at a later date when the breast reconstruction
has had time to "settle down". The surgeon can then
position the nipple more accurately so it matches the position
on your natural breast.
Nipple reconstruction is usually performed 4-6 months after
the formation of the breast mound. The usual way of creating
a nipple at the present time is to tattoo the areola and to
use the skin of the breast to create the nipple projection.
This is usually performed by using small skin flaps.
Other ways of creating nipples include:
- Grafting of the nipple from the other breast
- Skin grafting from other areas of the body to create both
the nipple and/or areola.
Some women decide against having another operation to create
a nipple and are happy with just the breast form. Very good
artificial nipples, which you can stick onto your reconstructed
breast to give an even appearance, are available and come
in different shapes, sizes and colours to suit you.
Another option as part of a reconstruction is to have the
nipple area tattooed. This can be done some time after the
nipple has been reconstructed and can give quite a successful
result.
Nipple reconstruction can be done as an outpatient local
anaesthesia procedure.
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