Surgical Correction and Reconstruction of the Nipple-Areola Complex: Current Review of Techniques

Mark A Boccola; Jessica Savage; Warren M Rozen; Mark W Ashton; Chris Milner; Richard Rahdon; Iain S Whitaker

doi:10.1055/s-0030-1263290

Journal of Reconstructive Microsurgery, Table of Contents

J Reconstr Microsurg 2010; 26(9): 589-600
DOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1263290

Surgical Correction and Reconstruction of the Nipple-Areola Complex: Current Review of Techniques

Mark A. Boccola¹ , Jessica Savage¹ , Warren M. Rozen¹ , Mark W. Ashton¹ , Chris Milner¹ , Richard Rahdon¹ , Iain S. Whitaker¹

¹Jack Brockhoff Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Research Unit, Department of Anatomy, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Nipple malformations are common congenital or acquired conditions that can have tremendous cosmetic, psychological, breast-feeding, sexual, and hygienic ramifications. Ideal reconstruction of the nipple-areola complex (NAC) requires symmetry in position, size, shape, texture, pigmentation, and permanent projection, and although many technical descriptions of NAC reconstruction exist in the medical literature, there are insufficient data presented to accurately compare outcomes. The current article comprises a thorough review of the literature, exploring the techniques described for NAC reconstruction, comparing reported outcomes and complications, and providing an evidence-based approach to NAC reconstruction. The findings of the review suggest that evidence regarding surgical correction of nipple deformity and complete NAC reconstruction is lacking, and loss of nipple projection over time is a pervasive problem common to all flap techniques. A combination of a single pedicle local flap with tattooing for complete NAC reconstruction is currently the most supported method; however, data concerning which type of reconstruction is best suited to immediate versus delayed and type of breast mound remain to be examined.

KEYWORDS

Nipple areola complex - breast - reconstruction - autologous - aesthetic

Full Text

References

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Warren RozenM.B.B.S. B.Med.Sc. P.G.Dip.Surg.Anat. Ph.D.

Jack Brockhoff Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Research Unit

Room E533, Department of Anatomy, University of Melbourne, Grattan St, Parkville, 3050 Victoria, Australia

Email: warrenrozen@hotmail.com