Key points
- Additional surgery to improve the cosmetic appearance of the breast post-reconstruction includes nipple reconstruction, fat grafting and lipofilling, and bilateral therapeutic mammoplasty.
- Nipple reconstruction is performed once the reconstructed breast has healed.
- 3D nipple tattoos are a popular and effective cosmetic technique
- Fat grafting and lipofilling help improve the shape of the breast.
- Bilateral therapeutic mammoplasty involves surgery to both breasts and consists of breast-conserving surgery and breast reduction technique.
Breast reconstruction
Breast reconstruction often involves further surgical procedures to achieve the best cosmetic outcomes. Additional procedures include:
- nipple reconstruction
- 3D nipple tattooing
- fat grafting
- surgery to the other breast, such as volume reduction or a breast lift procedure
Nipple reconstruction is performed once the reconstructed breast has healed. A nipple can be reconstructed surgically by raising flaps of tissue from the central area of the reconstruction. For women with large nipples, tissue may be grafted from one breast to form a nipple on the other, resulting in smaller nipples on both breasts.
Reconstructed nipples will likely undergo some degree of flattening, and the procedure may not be possible for patients with insufficient tissue, thin skin or radiation damage. Nipple reconstruction can be followed by areola tattooing or micropigmentation.
3D Nipple tattooing is becoming more popular either following nipple reconstruction to give colour to the newly formed nipple (3D) or without nipple reconstruction (2D). By using different shades of pigmented colour the tattooed nipple can be matched closely to the contralateral breast nipple. This further provides confidence to women as well as completion to the reconstruction. Prosthetic nipples are also available.
Fat grafting and lipofilling is used to improve the breast contour, fill in defects or mask implant outlines. Fat cells are taken from other areas of the body (e.g. abdomen, thighs or buttocks) using liposuction and injected into the reconstructed breast. There is a risk of fat loss over time, and repeat procedures may be required.
Bilateral therapeutic mammoplasty combines breast-conserving surgery with breast reduction technique. The tumour is removed with a wide rim of healthy tissue, and the nipple and areola are left intact. Reduction surgery is performed on the other breast, resulting in smaller, uplifted breasts. Radiation therapy is required for the affected breast.
Breast Reconstruction Awareness Day
BRA Day is an internationally recognised day dedicated to the education and awareness of breast reconstruction after breast cancer surgery. It was first launched in 2011 and now occurs annually during breast cancer awareness month, on the third Wednesday of October.
Breast Cancer Foundation NZ partner with the specialist team of surgeons and nurses from Counties Manukau and Hutt Valley Regions to host an event highlighting options for reconstruction, different surgeries and the best timing for these, as well as what to expect from your recovery.
Check for upcoming events.
