Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS)
Nipple reconstruction
Mastectomy usually means removal of the whole breast including the nipple and areola (the coloured area of skin around the nipple), but it is possible to have the nipple reconstructed. Nipple reconstruction is usually done a few months after the breast reconstruction to give the new breast time to settle into its final shape and position.
Skin can be taken from the areola around the other nipple or the top of the inner thigh, since these areas tend to be darker than skin on the rest of the body. Sometimes part of the other nipple can be used as a graft. A nipple can also be reconstructed using an area of skin and tissue which is later tattooed to match the colour of the other nipple and areola. More medical information about nipple reconstruction is available from Macmillan Cancer Support.
Patricia feels she would have recovered quicker if she'd had an immediate breast reconstruction but is looking forward to a mastopexy and a new nipple that will be tattooed on.
Patricia feels she would have recovered quicker if she'd had an immediate breast reconstruction but is looking forward to a mastopexy and a new nipple that will be tattooed on.
Hilary is planning to have her healthy breast reduced and nipple reconstruction using tissue from her leg. She wasn't at all worried about it because everything had gone well before.
Hilary is planning to have her healthy breast reduced and nipple reconstruction using tissue from her leg. She wasn't at all worried about it because everything had gone well before.
Sandra is happier with her new breast now and plans to have her healthy breast lifted and nipple reconstruction.
Sandra is happier with her new breast now and plans to have her healthy breast lifted and nipple reconstruction.
Both Beverley and her husband were pleased with her breast reconstruction. She can wear low cut tops and will have another nipple reconstruction soon.
Both Beverley and her husband were pleased with her breast reconstruction. She can wear low cut tops and will have another nipple reconstruction soon.
Jane has been waiting a year for her mastopexy, which was delayed for clinical reasons. She was frustrated to learn, though, that the surgeon has to seek approval from the Primary Care Trust first.
Jane has been waiting a year for her mastopexy, which was delayed for clinical reasons. She was frustrated to learn, though, that the surgeon has to seek approval from the Primary Care Trust first.
Last reviewed July 2017.
Last updated November 2011.
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