What is the cause of nipple sparing mastectomy complications & how can this could have been avoided? (Photo)

Question

I am 54 yo and had a nipple sparing double mastectomy w immediate reconstruction for small cancer tumor. After 7 days skin was blistering and red. I was sent home w new Xeroform tight bandage and waited 7 more days and got what they say is epidermolysis and necrosis. Got second surgery implant removed nipple lost. What is the cause and how can this could have been avoided? I called them everyday. Skin was tight and felt on fire. Can this happen again in reconstruction?

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Your surgeon is trying to remove as much breast tissue as possible to decrease the cancer risk, but leave enough tissue for adequate blood flow. Adding an implant or expander makes adequate blood flow even harder. Some women need flaps with additional blood flow moved into the area to support implants. Right now, being cancer free/cancer controlled is the main goal. You will need to heal and then see what options are available.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

The posted photo is a bit confusing. I recommend virtual consultation in order to discuss your issues in all surgery complications can happen and I’m sure you signed a consent outlining potential complications. Unfortunately, one of these complications occur, causing you additional surgery and now needing more rounds of surgery. Again, virtual consult with deformity can be seen at a better distance.

What is the cause of nipple sparing mastectomy complications & how can this could have been avoided? (Photo)

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Nipple sparing mastectomy reconstruction? (Photo)