Nipple reconstructions: comparison of patients' and surgeons' perspectives

Abstract

<h2>Abstract</h2> Nipple-areolar complex (NAC) addition is an important adjunct to breast reconstruction in patients who have had mastectomies. We studied 22 patients who underwent NAC reconstructions over a 5-year period. There were a total of 273 breast reconstructions carried out over the same period. Patients were questioned regarding their perception of various physical characteristics of the NAC reconstruction as well as their perception of the overall benefit of the operation. Patient ratings were compared with those of an independent observer. The majority of patients (19/22) were pleased to have undergone such surgery and felt that it had completed their breast reconstruction. Patient and observer scores were similar: the highest scoring features were NAC position, softness and symmetry. The lowest scoring features were sensation, size and appearance when nude. Only one patient found any influence of NAC reconstruction towards sexual responsiveness. Twenty-one of the 22 patients would recommend this procedure to other women. We feel that NAC reconstruction is a valuable component of the reconstructive ladder in breast cancer.