Nipple Reconstruction Southlake
Conveniently located to serve the areas of Dallas, North Dallas, Southlake and the mid-cities.Patients who have undergone mastectomy surgery often undergo nipple reconstruction in Southlake as part of the breast reconstruction process. The aim of nipple reconstruction surgery is to restore the elevated nipple and the areola, in turn restoring a more natural appearance to the breasts.
In rare cases, the surgeon constructs the nipple while performing breast reconstruction surgery. Typically, however, plastic surgeons prefer to wait for some months after breast reconstruction surgery to conduct nipple reconstruction.
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Methods of Nipple Reconstruction Surgery
Nipple reconstruction can be achieved through different procedures:
- Creating a nipple from the folds of the skin – This method is very common. During it, tiny folds of the skin from the reconstructed breast are pleated and stitched together. The nipple is made more erect by using extra fat, skin, or synthetic dermal fillers. The areola is made through tattooing at a later stage.
- Using grafted skin to create a nipple – Skin from the lower belly, abdomen, thighs, or groin is grafted to the breast mound to create a new nipple.
- Splitting the nipple – In patients who have undergone a single mastectomy, the other breast remains intact. If the nipple on the healthy breast is large enough, the surgeon can remove a part of the nipple and use this for nipple reconstruction on the new breast. This results in a new nipple that looks similar to the patient’s nipple in color, size, and position.
Preparing for Nipple Reconstruction Surgery
Dr. Habash may ask you to avoid food for a certain period before the surgery. You may have to discontinue certain medications. You can wash your body with an antiseptic soap the morning of the surgery; Dr. Habash will ask you to avoid applying talcum powder, lotion, or perfume after washing.
The Procedure
Nipple reconstruction is an outpatient procedure and does not require hospitalization. The duration of this surgery can be anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour depending on the exact techniques used.
The procedure may be done under local or general anesthesia. If you have chosen local anesthesia, the breast area will be numbed using an injection. If the skin is to be grafted from another part of your body, that area will also be numbed. The chosen technique will then be performed.
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The Healing and Recovery Process
A plastic nipple protector filled with antibacterial ointment will be stitched onto your nipple to shield it from trauma. You will have to wear a surgical bra or sports bra in order to prevent your dressing from shifting its position. The shield, stitches, and bandages will be removed after a few days.
Dr. Habash may recommend an antibacterial ointment to be applied during the healing period. During recovery, the new nipples can be supported by placing cotton or gauze inside your bra. You can shower after the dressing is removed. You will be advised against using strong scrubs and soaps during the healing period.
Your Results
Discuss your desired nipple and areola size clearly with Dr. Habash during your consultation. Dr. Habash will take care to make the nipple larger initially, because the new nipple tends to flatten after some time, settling into the desired dimensions.
Nipple Reconstruction Cost
The price of a patient’s nipple reconstruction and breast reconstruction is covered by their health insurance provider. This aspect of the procedure can be discussed as part of your initial appointment.
Schedule Your Consultation
To learn more about the process of nipple reconstruction in Southlake, contact the office of Dr. Ameen Habash and set up your consultation. Dr. Habash will be available to answer your questions and go into detail regarding the ideal technique for you.
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