Thank you for your question! Basically, with breast surgery, viability of the nipple-areolar complex (NAC) is always a concern. It is especially important when actually moving the nipple with procedures such as a breast lift or breast reduction. Vascularity to the NAC should always be taken into account and should be preserved. The blood flow to the area is already tenuous when the NAC is raised simply by cutting around it and the surrounding breast tissue. Maximizing the vascularity to the area is critical and caution taken during the procedure to allow optimal blood flow by keeping the NAC attached to a reliable source from the underlying breast tissue. Increased risk of necrosis is seen in smokers, diabetics, the use of implants during a breast lift, the degree to which the NAC is raised, too much compression on the NAC during the lift. Your plastic surgeon will discuss the risks of nipple demiseand special care taken during the procedure itself. Although a small risk, it is certainly present with any breast procedure. Hope that this helps. Best wishes!
It is uncommon to loose a nipple areola after a breast lift since blood supply is usually intact from these procedures. Risk factors for this complication include prior breast implant surgery or excessive tension on the closure which can compromise the blood flow. Could you provide additional details of your surgery or photos?
