Reconstruction of the Nipple and Areola
Nipple and areola reconstruction is a specialised surgical procedure that is usually the final stage of breast reconstruction following mastectomy or another surgical procedure. Its aim is to restore the natural appearance of the nipple and areola in proportion to the reconstructed breast. Every case requires an individual consultation with a surgeon, who assesses the patient’s condition and selects the appropriate treatment method.
Reception: Mon–Fri, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Gdańsk, 15 Toruńska Street.
| Context | after mastectomy, injury or breast surgery |
| Stage of treatment | usually the final stage of breast reconstruction |
| Anaesthesia | local or general — assessed by the surgeon |
| Doctor | Dr Iwona Chruścicka |
| Price | price list → |
the final stage of breast reconstruction
selected by the surgeon during the consultation
Dr Iwona Chruścicka
assessment of indications and the patient’s condition
What does nipple and areola reconstruction involve?
Nipple and areola reconstruction is a surgical procedure aimed at restoring the appearance of the nipple–areola complex after it has been lost or deformed. It is most commonly performed as the final stage of breast reconstruction after mastectomy, once the shape and volume of the reconstructed breast have stabilised.
The nipple is usually reconstructed using a local skin flap from the reconstructed breast. The colour of the areola may be restored surgically or during a separate stage using medical tattooing, also known as dermopigmentation. During the consultation, the surgeon discusses the available methods and selects the approach most appropriate for the patient’s situation.
Nipple reconstruction provides visible aesthetic results, but several aspects should be discussed before making a decision. Over time, the reconstructed nipple may partially flatten. This is common and may require correction. Sensation in the reconstructed nipple is usually limited or different from that in a natural nipple. Possible complications include partial or complete nipple necrosis, infection, healing difficulties — particularly in patients who have undergone radiotherapy — and asymmetry. The risk of impaired wound healing is higher when the breast area has been irradiated. The doctor discusses the patient’s individual risk profile during the eligibility consultation.
Who is nipple and areola reconstruction intended for?
The procedure may be considered by patients who:
- have undergone mastectomy or lumpectomy involving loss of the nipple and areola,
- have completed the main stage of breast reconstruction and the reconstructed breast has stabilised in shape,
- have completed systemic cancer treatment and, when applicable, radiotherapy — the doctor assesses readiness for the procedure,
- have experienced deformation or loss of the nipple as a result of injury or infection,
- are in good general health and have no active contraindications to surgery.
The surgeon performs the eligibility assessment by evaluating the scar and breast skin, the history of cancer treatment and the patient’s general health.
How is the procedure performed?
The surgeon assesses the condition of the skin and scars from previous procedures, the history of cancer treatment and the patient’s general health. The doctor discusses reconstruction methods, possible risks and the stages of treatment, such as a separate areola tattooing stage. The appropriate method is selected and the procedure is scheduled.
Depending on the scope of the procedure and the patient’s situation, local or general anaesthesia may be used. The decision is made by the surgeon and anaesthetist.
The surgeon reconstructs the nipple using the method most appropriate for the patient, usually with a local skin flap from the breast.
The colour of the areola may be restored during a separate stage using dermopigmentation, or medical tattooing, after the nipple reconstruction wound has healed. The surgeon explains the planned treatment schedule.
The surgeon provides detailed instructions concerning wound care and follow-up appointments.
Results and what to expect
Reconstruction makes it possible to restore the appearance of the nipple–areola complex in a way that harmonises with the rest of the reconstructed breast. Results vary and depend on skin quality, the history of cancer treatment and the technique used. It should be taken into account that:
- the reconstructed nipple may partially flatten over time — this is common,
- sensation in the nipple area is usually different from or more limited than natural sensation,
- the full result becomes visible after complete healing and, when applicable, completion of the areola tattooing stage,
- correction may be recommended in some cases.
Contraindications
- active cancer treatment, including ongoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy — the procedure is planned after treatment has been completed and an appropriate period has passed,
- inflammation or infection in the planned treatment area,
- uncontrolled systemic diseases, such as diabetes or autoimmune diseases, which may affect healing,
- blood clotting disorders or the use of potent anticoagulant medication that cannot be discontinued,
- poor skin condition at the planned reconstruction site — assessed by the surgeon.
Every case is assessed individually. Patients who have undergone breast radiotherapy require particular evaluation because irradiated tissue may have impaired healing capacity.
Recovery
Swelling, redness, pain or discomfort in the reconstructed area may occur after the procedure. These are typical reactions following surgery. The surgeon provides individual postoperative recommendations, which usually include:
- protecting the wound and changing dressings according to the doctor’s instructions,
- avoiding strenuous physical activity for the period indicated by the surgeon,
- avoiding baths, swimming pools and saunas until the wound has healed,
- attending regular follow-up appointments to assess healing.
The time required to return to normal daily activities varies. The final aesthetic results, including those following any areola tattooing, are assessed after complete healing and stabilisation of the outcome.
Doctor performing nipple and areola reconstruction
A doctor specialising in breast surgery, including reconstruction after mastectomy. She performs nipple and areola reconstruction and other breast surgery procedures. Eligibility is assessed during an individual consultation.
Nipple and areola reconstruction — consultation with Dr Iwona Chruścicka
Gdańsk, 15 Toruńska Street · Mon–Fri, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Frequently asked questions — nipple and areola reconstruction
What risks are associated with nipple reconstruction?
Possible complications include partial or complete nipple necrosis requiring treatment or correction, infection, impaired wound healing, especially following radiotherapy, asymmetry and flattening of the nipple over time. The doctor discusses the individual risk profile before the procedure.
When can nipple reconstruction be performed after mastectomy?
Nipple reconstruction is usually planned as the final stage, after completion of cancer treatment, including chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and after the shape of the reconstructed breast has stabilised. The surgeon determines the appropriate timing during the consultation, taking into account the treatment history and condition of the tissues.
Is nipple reconstruction performed in a single stage?
This depends on the method and the patient’s situation. Reconstructing the shape of the nipple and restoring the colour of the areola are often two separate stages. The areola colour may be restored using dermopigmentation, or medical tattooing, after the nipple reconstruction has healed. The surgeon discusses the treatment schedule individually.
Does a reconstructed nipple retain sensation?
Sensation in the reconstructed nipple is usually limited or differs from sensation in a natural nipple. This results from previous procedures and the condition of the nerves in the area. The degree of sensation varies and depends on the history of surgery and the condition of the tissues.
What about patients who have undergone breast radiotherapy?
Patients who have undergone radiotherapy to the breast require particular assessment before nipple reconstruction. Irradiated tissues heal less effectively and are more susceptible to complications. The surgeon assesses the skin and decides on the method and timing of the procedure after reviewing the complete treatment history.
How much does nipple and areola reconstruction cost in Gdańsk?
The current price is available in the breast surgery price list or by calling 600 006 913. The cost may depend on the scope and method of the procedure selected during the consultation.
Breast surgery — related procedures
Breast restoration after mastectomy — the preceding stage of reconstruction.
Details →Overview of surgical breast procedures.
Details →Prices of breast surgery procedures.
Price list →Book a surgical consultation.
Contact →Nipple and areola reconstruction in Gdańsk
Dr Iwona Chruścicka · Gdańsk, 15 Toruńska Street
The procedure requires an eligibility consultation · Mon–Fri, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
The information on this page is intended for general educational purposes and does not replace a medical or oncological consultation. Nipple and areola reconstruction is a surgical procedure requiring individual eligibility assessment and consideration of the patient’s cancer treatment history. The decision regarding the procedure and its timing is made by the doctor. Results vary between patients. Wyspa Medycyny Przyjaznej, 15 Toruńska Street, unit AU1, Gdańsk. Tel.: 600 006 913.