After reconstructing the volume and shape of the breast, it is advised to suggest a reconstruction of the nipple-areola complex in order to fully restore this symbol of femininity which is the breast.

AIMS :

The surgery aims to reconstruct a coloured areola as well as a central relief as nipple

PRINCIPLES :
The operation can be performed when the volume of the reconstructed breast is considered as stable. There are several techniques for reconstruction of the areola:
The skin is ideally taken from the genito-femoral (groin) crease.

  • TATTOOING : These tattoos tend to fade. There are also several techniques to reconstruct the nipple including:
  • THE CONTRALATERAL GRAFT  : This is the technique of choice if the nipple is sufficiently projected and generous. This technique leaves virtually no trace and does not alter the sensibility of the areola.
  • LOCAL FLAPS : A local flap of skin is lifted and rolled on itself to reconstruct a central relief as nipple.

BEFORE THE OPERATION

It is not necessary to conduct a new assessment procedure.
A new anaesthetic consultation is not required if a light sedation is to be used.
Smoking cessation is recommended.
No medication containing aspirin should be taken within 10 days prior to surgery.

TYPE OF ANAESTHESIA AND HOSPITAL STAY

TYPE OF ANAESTHESIA
It is a simple local anaesthesia. Sedation may be offered to the most anxious patients.

HOSPITAL STAY
This surgery is most often done as an outpatient.

THE PROCEDURE
The operation usually lasts half an hour. At the end of surgery, a light dressing is made.

POSTOPERATIVE CARE AND FOLLOW-UP
The postoperative course is simple and does not require a work leave. The pain is usually mild and rapidly relieved by the usual analgesics.
It is advisable to wait for healing before wetting the graft (conservative showers).

THE RESULT :
After healing a pink and much more flexible nipple gives the breast its natural and complete aspect, the bosom again becoming a symbol of femininity.
The goal of this surgery is to provide a significant improvement, and not to achieve perfection. If your wishes are realistic, the result should give you great satisfaction.

DISAPPOINTING RESULTS :
It is unfortunately impossible to reconstruct a perfect breast, symetrical to the other breast.
The reconstructed nipple has lost all possibilities of contraction (size difference) and erogenous sensitivity.
There is often a difference in colour between the two areolas. In addition, tattoos tend to fade but their renewal is always possible.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS :
Complications of areolar reconstruction are actually rare.The failure of graft take is still possible. In this case, a new skin graft can be tried again.In total we should not overstate the risks and in the vast majority of cases, the reconstructive surgery if performed correctly, will give a very significant result, even if the scarring is inevitable.

You can be assured that if you are operated on by a qualified Plastic Surgeon, he will have the experience and skill required to avoid these complications, or to treat them successfully if necessary.