Areola and nipple reconstruction
Nipple and areola reconstruction: The benefits
- This is a precise surgery that allows to recreate the areola and the shape of the nipple
- We use an original technique that most often avoids the need for a skin graft or the removal of the contralateral nipple
Areola reconstruction is the final step in breast reconstruction, allowing you to look forward to a life free of disease.
General information on areola and nipple reconstruction
Reconstruction of the areola and nipple is one of the most important stages in breast reconstruction. Its surgical technique must be rigorous in order to obtain the most natural result possible. In most cases, we use the skate-flap technique. This involves drawing 2 half-areolas, one side of which will contain the future nipple. The two areola halves are then brought together towards the center, and the hole left at the periphery is filled with a round-block. At the end of the procedure, the shape, volume and relief of the areola and nipple are restored. Only the color is missing, and a tattoo will be applied 1 month later at the surgery. In rare cases, the skate flap technique cannot be used. In these cases, we use a skin graft taken from the root of the thigh. Sometimes, the reconstructed nipple is too small, whereas the healthy nipple is very large. In this case, we graft half of the healthy contralateral nipple.
Nipple and areola reconstruction: the procedure
All areola and nipple reconstruction procedures are performed on an outpatient basis. Depending on the case, they are performed under local anesthesia with sedation (neurolepnalgesia) or under general anesthesia. A pre-anaesthetic consultation is required 48 hours before the operation. Areola tattooing can be carried out in the office under local anaesthetic, or can be performed surgically. The skate flap technique is painless and requires simple post-operative care. No time off work is required. In the case of skin grafting, surgery is slightly more painful, and post-operative care requires you to take 5 to 7 days off work.
Our special features for areola and nipple breast reconstruction
We've been using the skate-flap technique for 10 years, and it has revolutionized our areola reconstructions. It avoids all the disadvantages of skin grafting (unsightly and sometimes painful scarring at the root of the thigh, hair growing on the areola and requiring electrolysis). We use it almost systematically, except in rare cases where the reconstructed breast skin is too thin.
Questions / Answers about areola and nipple breast reconstruction surgery
How long does it take to reconstruct the areola and nipple?
The areola and nipple can be reconstructed around 1 month after breast volume reconstruction. However, in some cases where a reduction plasty of the remaining breast is envisaged, it is preferable to wait 2 to 3 months after this procedure for the areola on the healthy side to assume its definitive position.
What is the post-operative care after areola and nipple reconstruction?
Post-operative care is relatively straightforward. The scar is disinfected, and compresses are applied with a perforated center to avoid compressing the new nipple. A Mepilex Border Flex dressing is then applied for 2 days, enabling you to take a shower.
Can other procedures be combined with areola and nipple reconstruction?
Yes, areola and nipple reconstruction can be combined with symmetrization of the contralateral breast or breast lipofilling (also known as natural breast augmentation) to harmonize the reconstruction, particularly in the décolleté area. This procedure is called fat-injected breast reconstruction.
How much does areola and nipple reconstruction cost?
Health insurance covers areola and nipple reconstruction. We charge additional fees ranging from 800 to 1,200 euros, depending on the technique used. In the case of tattooing, 1 to 2 sessions are required, with each session costing 500 euros.
Nipple and areola reconstruction: before and after photos
Dr. Benjoar and Dr. Berdah have been performing nipple and areola reconstruction for over 20 years. See the results of their procedures in the before-and-after photos below:
Have a question? Please contact us!
Cosmetic surgery in Paris
Docteur Yaël Berdah and Docteur Marc-David Benjoar
Plastic surgeons in Paris France