Shall we talk about nipple reconstruction?

There are no words to describe the sadness and embarrassment you feel after breast cancer surgery or another accident that changes the way your body looks. It's a very sensitive issue. But you're not alone. There are medical procedures that can help you feel confident and happy with your body again. Today we're going to talk about one such very important topic. That is nipple reconstruction, or ``Nipple Reconstruction''.

Simply put, what is nipple reconstruction?

This involves reshaping or reshaping your nipple and the dark skin around it (areola). This is usually done after a mastectomy (surgery to remove the breast due to breast cancer). In most cases, the nipple and surrounding tissue are also removed during this surgery. After that, a breast reconstruction surgery is performed. So, this nipple reconstruction is the last and most important step in the entire process.

What are the ways to do this?

There are several ways to do this, depending on the look you want. Let's take a look at what they are. The table below will help you understand these methods in a simple way.

Who would undergo this kind of treatment?

There may be several reasons why someone decides to have this type of surgery.

• Those who have undergone a mastectomy.
• Those whose breasts have changed shape due to other surgery.
• People who have had their nipples damaged in an accident.
• Those who are dissatisfied with the shape or size of their nipples and want to make a change for cosmetic reasons.

Everyone can choose this method to achieve their personal goals.

What happens before the surgery?

Once you decide to have this surgery, you will need to see a plastic surgeon . There,

• You can ask any question you have in mind and clear your doubts.
• The doctor will check to see if your body is in a suitable condition for surgery.
• They will talk to you about what you can expect from this surgery and what the results will be like.
• Your breast area will be examined and several pictures will be taken.

The doctor will then give you a date for your surgery. He will also clearly explain how to prepare for the surgery, how to take the medication, and the recovery time.

What happens on the day of surgery?

This nipple reconstruction surgery is usually performed four to six months after breast reconstruction. On the day you come in for surgery, the doctor will mark the areas on your skin where the surgery will be performed with a pencil.

Anesthesia is used to ensure that you do not feel any pain during the surgery. Most of the time, you will be put to sleep. However, sometimes this can be done by numbing only the breast being operated on.

The procedure varies slightly depending on the type of surgery being performed. The doctor will make small incisions in your skin, shape the skin, and create a nipple. This surgery takes about 15 minutes to an hour.

If you're getting a tattoo, how does it work?

Some plastic surgeons perform these medical tattoos. Or you can go to a tattoo artist who specializes in this. If you are just getting a tattoo without surgery, there is a consultation beforehand. There you can talk about the size, shape, and color you want.

When getting a tattoo, the area is first cleaned and an outline is drawn using a stencil.

Then, while you lie down on a bed, the tattoo machine will inject the pigment into your skin. This may feel like a small needle being poked or poked. This can take about two hours.

What happens after this?

When the surgery is finished, the doctor will stitch up the incisions and cover them with bandages. You will stay in a recovery room until you wake up from the anesthesia. If you were given general anesthesia, you will need someone to drive you home. In most cases, this is an outpatient procedure.

If you get a tattoo, it will also be covered with a bandage or plastic wrap. You will be advised on how long to leave it on and what creams to apply. After getting a tattoo, you will want to scratch the area, but don't scratch it. A tattoo is like a small wound. The skin will start to peel in a few days, which is normal. Don't pick at the scabs, let them fall off on their own.

What are the benefits and risks of these methods?

Every method has its advantages and some risks. Let's take a look at them.

How long does it take to heal?

It can take four to six weeks to fully heal after surgery . It takes about seven to ten days for the skin to heal after getting a tattoo . Your doctor will explain to you in detail about the healing time and how to take care of yourself during that time.

Immediately after surgery, your nipples may appear larger and more prominent than expected. This is due to swelling. This is normal. Once the swelling goes down, they will return to their normal size. You will be advised to use a nipple protector or a special bra to protect your nipples until they heal. You will also need to avoid strenuous exercise for a few weeks.

When should you see a doctor immediately?

If you experience any of the symptoms below after surgery or a tattoo, see your doctor immediately.

• If there is severe pain .
• If there is excessive bleeding or swelling .
• If there is a yellow or white pus-like fluid coming from the wound (this may be a sign of infection).

It's common to feel uncomfortable about your body, whether after cancer treatment or for any other reason. But there are ways to overcome that discomfort and regain your confidence and happiness in your body. If you're unsure about what's best for you, talk to your doctor, especially a plastic surgeon, about it openly. Since these are permanent procedures, it's best to listen to all your concerns and make a decision based on your understanding.