Nipple
Reconstruction
HOME . RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY CALGARY
Nipple Reconstruction
HOME . RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY CALGARY
The Final Touch in Your Reconstruction Journey
After completing breast reconstruction, nipple reconstruction offers the opportunity to add a personal and aesthetic finishing touch to your new breast(s). While optional, nipple reconstruction can enhance the natural appearance of your reconstructed breast, providing a sense of completion. Dr. Yau offers a range of techniques to reconstruct the nipple and create a natural-looking result. For some patients, the option of a 3-D tattoo alone is sufficient, while others opt for both the nipple reconstruction and the tattoo for a more realistic outcome.
Is Nipple Reconstruction Right for You?
You may be a good candidate for nipple reconstruction if you have already completed your breast mound reconstruction and want to achieve a more natural-looking appearance. This final step is ideal for women seeking better symmetry and a greater sense of completion after mastectomy.
Nipple reconstruction is a relatively simple outpatient procedure usually performed once the breast has settled. It works well for healthy patients with realistic expectations and can significantly boost confidence and femininity in both clothing and intimate settings.
Benefits of Nipple Reconstruction?
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Natural Appearance:
Creates a more realistic-looking breast with proper nipple projection and shape.
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Improved Symmetry:
Helps both breasts look more balanced and natural.
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Boosted Confidence:
Many women feel more complete and feminine after this final step.
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Greater Comfort in Clothing:
Allows you to wear bras, swimwear, and fitted clothing with confidence.
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Minimal Downtime:
Quick outpatient procedure with fast recovery and long-lasting results.
Nipple Reconstruction Procedure: Customization to Suit Your Needs
Nipple reconstruction is a minor surgical procedure that typically takes about 30 minutes per nipple. It is performed under local anesthesia while the patient is awake, and is generally well tolerated with minimal discomfort.
Dr. Yau uses two primary techniques to reconstruct the nipple, both of which aim to create a realistic appearance and feel:
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Local Tissue Rearrangement
In this technique, Dr. Yau uses the surrounding skin and tissue at the site of the desired nipple to create a new nipple. Small incisions are made, and the tissue is elevated and shaped into a mound that resembles a natural nipple.
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Nipple-Sharing
For patients who have only undergone reconstruction on one breast and have a healthy nipple on the other, Dr. Yau can use a nipple-sharing technique. A portion of the existing nipple is transferred to the reconstructed breast, where it will develop its own blood supply and take on the appearance of a natural nipple.
After the nipple reconstruction procedure, the areola can be recreated using 3-D tattooing, providing a natural, symmetrical appearance. This tattooing typically takes place around 3 months after surgery, once the nipple has healed.
Recovery After Nipple Reconstruction: A Quick and Comfortable Healing Process
Procedure Type:
Nipple reconstruction is an outpatient procedure — you go home the same day.
Return to Activities:
Most patients can resume regular daily activities within a few days.
Healing Time:
Full healing usually takes about 2 weeks.
Activity Restrictions:
Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for 2 weeks.
Discomfort Level:
Most patients experience little to no pain, especially due to reduced sensation in the area.
3D Areola Tattooing:
Once fully healed, you can choose 3D tattooing to add natural color and enhance symmetry.
