Breast Reconstruction: Nipple and Areola Reconstruction
Board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Franklyn Elliott has performed breast reconstruction surgery for over 25 years. As breast reconstruction is an intimate decision for many patients, Dr. Elliott feels passionately about helping women through their breast cancer removal journey by providing safe and effective surgical care.
Specializing in breast reconstruction Dr. Elliott uses several, specialized techniques for breast reconstruction surgery, including the advanced scarless latissimus dorsi flap procedure, depending on the patient’s needs and desires.
Another aspect of breast reconstruction that is not discussed as often is nipple and areola reconstruction. Unlike breast reconstruction that can be performed immediately after a mastectomy or lumpectomy, nipple reconstruction is done after the patient has healed fromher breast reconstruction surgery. Nipple reconstruction surgery also has several technique options including using the patient’s own breast skin to recreate a nipple. A dermal matrix product, a skin substitute made mostly of collagen, can also be used for nipple reconstruction. If only one breast was removed, sometimes a portion of the nipple can be removed from the healthy breast and grafted to the reconstructed breast.
The darker area of the nipple, the areola, can be tattooed onto the breasts. Nipples can also be tattooed on reconstructed breast(s). Skin grafting from another area of the body such as the inner thigh can also be used to re-create the areola.
During a consultation Dr. Elliott discusses all breast reconstruction options and techniques available to determine with the patient what method will provide optimal results for them. To learn more about breast reconstruction, continue reading Dr. Elliott’s blog. To schedule a consultation for breast reconstruction or any plastic surgery procedure, please call 404-256-1311. Be sure to stay connected with Dr. Elliott on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ for the latest breast surgery news and information.