Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Global Open (Nov 2013)

Free Nipple Graft Technique to Correct Nipple and Areola Malposition after Breast Procedures

  • Mario Rietjens, MD,
  • Francesca De Lorenzi, MD, PhD,
  • Manconi Andrea, MD,
  • Prakasit Chirappapha, MD,
  • Stefano Martella, MD,
  • Benedetta Barbieri, MD,
  • Alessandra Gottardi, MD,
  • Lomeo Giuseppe, MD,
  • Alaa Hamza, MD,
  • Jean-Yves Petit, MD,
  • Visnu Lohsiriwat, MD

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1097/GOX.0000000000000002
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 1, no. 8
p. e69

Abstract

Read online

Summary: Secondary correction of nipple areola complex (NAC) malposition represents a major concern after breast reconstructive procedures. It is frequently requested by patients complaining about asymmetric areolas impairing the whole reconstructive procedure and asking for improved cosmetic outcomes. Several methods have been described to achieve a good symmetry between the 2 areolas, either natural or reconstructed. We describe our correction technique with free NAC graft. A total of 16 patients were treated with free NAC grafts between April 2010 and April 2013 at the European Institute of Oncology, Milan, Italy. This series focused on the surgical technique and its postoperative outcomes. Three cases of partial graft loss (18%) were observed in the postoperative period. No total NAC necrosis occurred. No infection was observed. All the complications were managed with a conservative treatment, not requiring any further surgery. NAC malposition following breast reconstructive procedures can be corrected using the technique of free NAC graft with reliable and satisfactory results.