Nipple necrosis after a breast lift - what my reconstruction options? (photo)

Question

I am a 5'6", 125 lbs, white female. I had a breast lift and had no idea of the possibility of this complication. I went into the office the day after the procedure and a nurse looked at the area but did not have any concern. I did not see anyone for a week after that and when I went into the office, they knew there was a problem and now most of the nipple is gone. I want to know what my options are. as in reconstruction. the surgeon has injected it with filler but this is not a long te

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @elizabethcarrington12, thank you for your question. It is possible to consider a nipple reconstruction or aesthetic micropigmentation if you wish to match the characteristics of both breasts. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear elizabethcarrington12,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Your surgeon should be able to discuss options with you. Basically, they include fillers, which do not always work, using part of your good nipple to enlarge the flatter nipple, use a dermal graft or use a small flap of tissue to rebuild the nipple. If color is a problem, tattooing can correct this later.  You can also choose to trim the opposite nipple to better match the smaller one.

Jose A. Munoz, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!There are many different methods of nipple reconstruction, including the "iron cross" technique where 4 flaps are elevated from the areola and are centralized into nipple position and the flaps are sutured together. Similar results are achieved with a "star" pattern. The denuded areola is then reconstructed with a skin graft. Cartilage grafts from the ear can be used to increase nipple projection. Prosthetic material can be worn under a bra to simulate nipple projection. Tattooing can be utilized to correct any color discrepancies. Another option includes reduction of the projection of the larger nipple. An in-person evaluation is required to determine the procedure of choice.Revisit your plastic surgeon for evaluation and discussion.Best wishes...

Nipple necrosis after a breast lift - what my reconstruction options? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Loss of right nipple projection after mastopexy

Answer: Loss of right nipple projection after mastopexy

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift

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

Nipple necrosis after a breast lift - what my reconstruction options? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Loss of right nipple projection after mastopexy

Answer: Loss of right nipple projection after mastopexy

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift

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