Is it normal for a surgeon to remove nipples during a breast reduction without consent?

Question

Hi, I had a breast reduction & lift, 15lbs removed. At 2 wks the stitches were removed. I thought my nipples were under a skin graft. I was shocked to see they were gone! I asked the surgeon why & he casually said he removed them. I asked why, he said that I could have a surgery to reconstruct them. He offered no more info. Is it normal to remove nipples w/o consent for no medical reason. In the consultation I said I wanted to keep them had a friend there who confirms this. I'm devastated.

J. Michael Morrissey, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

Thank you for your question and I am sorry for what you are going through. Free nipple grafting is a technique used in the reduction of very large breasts when the blood supply to the nipple is questionable. This technique is typically discussed with the patient BEFORE surgery so that the woman can consider this possible option. It is highly irregular for this technique to be performed without discussing with the patient. If this technique is to be considered, it is obvious at the time of consultation and is not a "Surprise finding at the time of surgery". I find this very concerning that a surgeon would do this without your consent or even discussing it with you before surgery. You may consider a complaint with your state medical board. 
I wish you well,Dr. Morrissey

Is it normal for a surgeon to remove nipples during a breast reduction without consent?

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