Nipple Reconstruction
Breast cancer patients who are not candidates for, or choose not to undergo nipple-sparing mastectomy also have the option to reconstruct their nipple and areola as part of their breast reconstruction. Studies show patients who chose nipple reconstruction after breast cancer surgery have improved psychosocial and sexual well-being.
Although there are many different ways to perform nipple reconstruction, at PRMA we use the “bow-tie” method. The procedure gets it’s name from the bow-tie shaped incision used to create the new nipple.
More Nipple Reconstruction Information
The PRMA surgeons perform nipple reconstruction by cutting a “bow-tie” shaped skin flap on the breast. The flap is lifted, shaped, and sutured to create a “natural”, projecting nipple. The procedure can be done during revision surgery in the operating room, or as a separate procedure in the office under local anesthetic.
If desired, the reconstructed nipple and areola are later tattooed to add color. Patients can choose between a 2D tattoo that adds color only, or a 3D tattoo which also adds more detail (e.g. Montgomery glands) to make the final result even more realistic. Of course, tattoos are also an option on their own, without surgical nipple reconstruction for patients who don’t want a projecting nipple.
It is important to know the reconstructed nipple will not feel or respond like a natural nipple. Patients that have sensory nerve reconstruction in conjunction with certain types of flap breast reconstruction will have a much better chance of regaining feeling in the reconstructed nipple-areola long-term.
Hear from Our Patients
Oh what I would give to have found PRMA before my mastectomy, prosthesis, implants and 6 plus years of not being satisfied. I thank God every day for bringing PRMA into my life and I thank them for doing what they do so well. My wish is that PRMA reaches as many women possible early on so they too can benefit from the amazing work that they do for breast cancer patients. I promote PRMA every chance I have!
I would like to say is throughout the whole procedure from the first procedure, to the second procedure, to my final procedures I never felt less than a woman. I like my breast, and so the entire time I never felt like I was not a woman at any point. So definitely I would recommend PRMA to anyone and everyone.
I’m super excited and love the results and feel amazing. I want to let anyone listening to this know that I had the worst anxiety before my surgery thinking of everything you can imagine. I can say that this was 100% the right choice for me I love the way that I look. The process was much easier than what I expected.
I knew I wanted to have a mastectomy, but I didn’t know about breast reconstruction. Dr. Ledoux gave me ALL the options I had, and I really appreciated that!
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