Alloderm to Increase Nipple Projection?

Question

Hi, Just wondering if there is a procedure using Alloderm to increase nipple projection? I keep reading about nipple reduction etc but nothing to actually increase the size. I have very small nipples, my left one is actually smaller than the right one, would really love large nipples. How is procedure done and what sort of cost. Thank you.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.One technique that hasn't been mentioned in these posts is the use of the Cook Medical Biodesign Nipple Reconstruction Cylinder.

To see if this might work for you, see two or more board
certified and experienced plastic surgeons in your area for a full and complete
evaluation.

I hope this helps.

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Dermal matrices, such as AlloDerm, is commonly used for nipple reconstruction to add size and projection.  I do not believe that it is advocated for use in normal nipples to add projection.  If this is your question, consultation with a plastic surgeon to examine and discuss various options is recommended, as possibly procedures to correct nipple retraction/inversion may be a consideration.

C. Andrew Salzberg, MD · Answer

Yes, Alloderm can be added to the nipple to increase projection and in fact that is what I use to add volume and projection to nipple reconstructions I perform on my breast cancer patients undergoing breast reconstruction. Alloderm can be costly but the size necessary for use within the nipple is very small and should cost between $500 - $1000. Good luck!

Paul Gill, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question.   In the case of breast cancer reconstruction, alloderm is commonly used with nipple reconstruction to give a better nipple shape and size.  This is especially helpful in patients who have implant based reconstructions where the remaining skin may be thinner.

	In terms of using alloderm to add projection or size to a healthy nipple, i would not recommend this.   My concern is that the graft could interfere with the ability to detect abnormal lesions on your mammogram.   Breast cancer begins in the milk ducts and "all roads lead to Rome", aka the nipple.    

	 

	Dr. Gill

Victoria Yongsook Suh, MD · Answer

Alloderm may be used to increase the projection of Reconstructed Nipples as part of Breast Reconstruction. Alloderm is processed from the skin of the Organ Donors. Since Organ Donation is a gift, the Lifecell company, the makers of Alloderm, does not endorse the use of Alloderm for cosmetic procedures. Even so, Alloderm is used in many reconstructive and cosmetic procedures. However, I am not yet aware of using Alloderm to increase the projection of a normal nipple. We know from past use of Alloderm in Lip Augmentation, that the effect is not permanent and in many were short lived. As a result, we rarely use it now and has been replaced by Dermal Fillers. Dermal Fillers may be an option for you. I hope this was helpful. Consult with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon for more information and for other options. Best Wishes!

Karen Vaniver, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

Alloderm can be rolled into a small cylinder shape that is placed in the center of the nipple reconstruction. This may aid in nipple projection and durability.

	At this time, Alloderm has not been recommended for use in normal nipples. You may consider a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon. It is possible that one of the procedures for inverted nipples may be appropriate for you.

Alloderm to Increase Nipple Projection?

Answers (6)

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