Nipple reconstruction at Wess Cohen MD in Southbury addresses the aesthetic and emotional impact of mastectomy or breast surgery. Led by Dr. Wess Cohen, this procedure aims to restore the natural appearance, symmetry, and balance of the breasts. Each approach is tailored to individual goals, empowering women to feel more confident after breast reconstruction.
Complete your breast reconstruction journey
Nipple reconstruction aims to recreate the nipple and areola for individuals who have undergone a mastectomy or breast surgery. This process can be the final step in breast reconstruction, helping restore a natural look and enhancing the overall symmetry of the breasts. Numerous techniques can be used, including skin grafting, medical tattooing, or using tissue from the patient’s body. Each option is personalized to align with the patient’s anatomy and aesthetic goals, providing a sense of closure after the breast reconstruction journey.
Benefits of nipple reconstruction:
- Completing the breast reconstruction process for a sense of closure
- Restoring the natural appearance of the nipple and areola
- Enhancing symmetry and proportion of the breasts
- Customizing results to match personal anatomy and preferences
- Providing improved confidence and body image
- Utilizing advanced techniques to minimize visible scarring
What are the techniques used for nipple reconstruction?
Nipple sharing
If you’ve undergone a mastectomy on one breast, nipple sharing may be a suitable option for you. This involves using a portion of your unaffected nipple to reconstruct the missing one. It works best for individuals with larger nipples and often achieves a natural appearance. While the sensation is typically not retained, this approach can restore a balanced look.
Nipple-sparing mastectomy
For those diagnosed with small tumors located far from the nipple, a nipple-sparing mastectomy may be an option. This allows your surgeon to remove the cancer while preserving your nipple and areola. If you meet the criteria, this approach can provide the advantage of maintaining your natural anatomy, minimizing the need for additional reconstruction procedures.
Skin flap or graft
Using your body’s own tissue, this method involves creating a small fold of skin and underlying tissue to form the nipple. If there isn’t enough tissue available on your breast, grafts can be taken from areas like your thigh, abdomen, or buttocks. This allows for a three-dimensional reconstruction of the nipple while maintaining a natural texture and appearance.
Medical tattooing
If you’re looking for a straightforward, non-surgical option, medical tattooing can create the appearance of a nipple and areola. This technique uses micropigmentation to achieve realistic coloring and shading. It’s an excellent choice for those who wish to avoid further surgery or to enhance the results of other reconstruction techniques.
Nipple reconstruction aftercare guidelines:
- Keep the surgical area clean and dry as instructed by your surgeon.
- Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for the recommended period.
- Wear the prescribed supportive garments to promote healing and maintain shape.
- Protect the area from direct sunlight to minimize discoloration during healing.
- Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor progress and address any concerns.
- Avoid smoking, as it can impair circulation and slow down the healing process.
- Notify your surgeon immediately if you notice unusual swelling, redness, or discomfort.
Schedule your consultation
Wess Cohen MD is a highly skilled plastic surgeon in Southbury, fellowship-trained in microsurgery and cosmetic surgery with a focus on breast aesthetics. With training from esteemed institutions like Rutgers University and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Dr. Cohen brings exceptional expertise to every procedure. His personalized approach ensures your nipple reconstruction journey is curated to address your unique goals and concerns. Schedule a consultation to discuss your nipple reconstruction options today.