Patient and Surgeon’s Concerns with Post-Mastectomy Nipple Reconstruction: An Alternative to Traditional Nipple Reconstruction

Abstract

Aims The aim of this paper is to determine what women who undergo reconstructive surgery after mastectomy (due to breast cancer) are seeking. It also answers the question, how plastic surgeons are attempting to fill this need. Methods A survey was undertaken of 84 plastic surgeons and 70 of their patients who underwent recent mastectomy and reconstruction surgery. All the material was deidentified before analysis. Results The majority of the women wanted their breasts and nipples to be natural and have the same appearance (or sometimes to be more attractive) or similar appearance. Conclusion Women undergoing this type of surgery frequently develop a decreased quality-of-life (QoL) which also affects their feeling of femininity, sexuality, and psychological well-being. The post-surgery time period and the additional necessary treatments are extremely stressful events. The importance of their breast post-operative aesthetics correlated with their self-esteem and body image. It is important for plastic surgeons to take these factors into consideration, when planning their reconstructive surgery