I Had a Lumpectomy and Lost my Nipple. Can I Get a New Nipple? My Plastic Surgeon Didn't Mention It.

Question

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

In most cases a nipple can be reconstructed but the timing depends upon the stage you are in the treatment of your breast cancer or reconstruction ( if necessary).

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

Was the nipple removed as part of the lumpectomy?  And are you receiving radiation?  In general, I am not a fan of nipple reconstruction due to the very disappointing long term results.  If you have a generous nipple on the other side, nipple sharing is certainly something to consider.  If not, tattooing can provide the illusion of a nipple.  If you are dead set on having a reconstruction done, ask your surgeon to show you LONG TERM results.  Invariably, most of them shrink up and disappear, leaving you with less projection and more scars.

W. Thomas McClellan, MD, FACS · Answer

A nipple can be reconstructed on most patients. Its an office procedure that takes about an hour using local anesthesia. Radiation may make you more susceptible to flap loss during nipple creation and or infection. See me video below on how its done. Best of Luck!

Derek Neoh, MBBS, FRACS · Answer

Hi SSB,

	You certainly can have a reconstructed nipple. There are many techniques described from nipple sharing to local flaps and grafts to even implants and tattooing. It depends on your other nipple and what is suitable for you- discuss this with your plastic surgeon. Often I defer the nipple reconstruction until after I have reconstructed the breast mound so as not to put it in the wrong spot.

	Best wishes.

Mark A. Schusterman, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes absolutely you can get a nipple reconstruction.  It is a routine part of breast reconstruction.  Ask your plastic surgeon.

I Had a Lumpectomy and Lost my Nipple. Can I Get a New Nipple? My Plastic Surgeon Didn't Mention It.

Answers (6)

Answer: I Had a Lumpectomy and Lost my Nipple. Can I Get a New Nipple? My Plastic Surgeon Didn't Mention It.

Answer: I Had a Lumpectomy and Lost my Nipple. Can I Get a New Nipple? My Plastic Surgeon Didn't Mention It.

Answer: Nipple loss after lumpectomy

Answer: Nipple loss after lumpectomy

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I Had a Lumpectomy and Lost my Nipple. Can I Get a New Nipple? My Plastic Surgeon Didn't Mention It.

Answers (6)

Answer: I Had a Lumpectomy and Lost my Nipple. Can I Get a New Nipple? My Plastic Surgeon Didn't Mention It.

Answer: I Had a Lumpectomy and Lost my Nipple. Can I Get a New Nipple? My Plastic Surgeon Didn't Mention It.

Answer: Nipple loss after lumpectomy

Answer: Nipple loss after lumpectomy

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reconstruction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.