Nipple and areola reconstruction

Nipple and areola reconstruction are generally performed as separate procedures. Completing the reconstruction with the nipple and areola is often the final step, and it is crucial to ensure the new areola is symmetrical with the other side.

Various techniques are available, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. The goal is to achieve a natural-looking and stable areola reconstruction.

During breast reconstruction, the goal is to create volume at the center of the areola. When there is sufficient volume in the nipple of the other breast, a portion of it can be taken and grafted onto the reconstructed breast. The scar on the donor nipple is nearly invisible, and there is no significant loss of sensitivity. This method produces very natural-looking results.

Another option is to use a “local flap”, where a portion of the skin from the reconstructed breast is folded to create volume for the new nipple.

There are different techniques for nipple and areola reconstruction, and each is independent of the other.

1. Breast reconstruction: nipple reconstruction

The different techniques for nipple reconstruction include:

• Grafting half of the nipple from the other breast
• Grafting a small labial flap
• Grafting half of a toe’s pulp
• Local flap (where the skin is folded onto itself to recreate volume)

Grafting half of the nipple or a small labial flap provides the most natural results.

2. Breast reconstruction: areola reconstruction

• Grafting skin taken from the groin fold
• Tattooing

Groin skin grafts tend to darken during healing, helping to match the color of the areola on the other breast.

3D tattooing, which originates from the United States, involves professional tattoo artists who specialize in areola tattooing. The results of this technique are often spectacular, using professional pigments and creating a 3D effect that truly gives the impression of relief. We recommend consulting specialists who are also familiar with the constraints of breast reconstruction.

The patient arrives at the clinic on the morning of the procedure. The surgery can be performed under local or general anesthesia.

Before the surgery, the surgeon makes precise preoperative markings to ensure the areola is placed optimally on the reconstructed breast, in relation to the position of the other areola. The procedure typically lasts between 1 to 1.5 hours and can be done under local or general anesthesia.

The patient is discharged the same day as the surgery (outpatient procedure). Dressings need to be changed daily by a nurse for the first few weeks.

The cost of areola and nipple reconstruction varies depending on the technique used. This breast reconstruction procedure is covered by health insurance.