Introduction
Areola and nipple reconstruction are significant procedures for many individuals who have undergone mastectomy or other breast - related surgeries. In New York City, a hub of medical excellence, there are several hospitals and clinics offering these services. This article aims to provide a comprehensive list of relevant hospitals and also explore the project price lists associated with areola and nipple reconstruction.
Importance of Areola and Nipple Reconstruction
After a mastectomy, breast reconstruction is a journey that often includes the final steps of areola and nipple reconstruction. This is not just about aesthetics; it plays a crucial role in the emotional and psychological well - being of patients. As Dr. Oren Lerman points out, nipple reconstruction is the “last piece of the puzzle” that can change a patient's visual and emotional response to their breast restoration. It can return the breasts to a more natural - looking state, enhancing self - confidence and helping patients feel “normal” and “whole” again.
Understanding the Reconstruction Process
Initial Breast Reconstruction
Before areola and nipple reconstruction, patients usually undergo initial breast reconstruction, which can be of two main types: using implants or the patient's own tissue.
- Implant Reconstruction: At institutions like Mount Sinai's Dubin Breast Center, during implant reconstruction, a tissue expander is placed at the time of mastectomy. It is a temporary inflatable implant that is gradually inflated in the surgeon's office. After about three months, the expander is removed, and a permanent implant (either silicone or saline) is placed.
- Autologous Tissue Reconstruction: This involves using the patient's own tissue. For example, the DIEP flap (using skin and fat from the lower abdomen) or the latissimus dorsi flap (using skin and muscle from the back) can be used to reconstruct the breast. The initial surgery for autologous tissue reconstruction is generally longer, but more can be accomplished in the first procedure compared to implant reconstruction.
Areola and Nipple Reconstruction
After the initial breast reconstruction has healed (usually three to six months later), areola and nipple reconstruction can take place. There are different techniques:
- Graft Nipple Reconstruction: At the Breast Reconstruction Surgery Center of the New York Plastic Surgical Group, in a graft nipple reconstruction, skin is taken from a donor site and attached to the newly constructed breast. For the nipple, the donor site can be the nipple of the other breast (in single - breast mastectomy) or the earlobe or labia (in double mastectomy). The donor site for the areola can be areas like the scar from a flap reconstruction procedure, the crease of the buttock, or the inner thigh.
- Flap Nipple Reconstruction: This technique creates the nipple from a skin flap taken from the area directly beside the region where the new nipple will be placed. It has the advantage of maintaining the original blood supply to the new nipple and typically results in less scarring around the reconstructed area.
- Nipple Tattooing: This is the final step in the nipple reconstruction process. It is done on an outpatient basis. The goal is to create a natural - looking nipple that complements the skin color and tone. However, it should be noted that tattooing alone may not create the same natural - looking appearance as a complete nipple reconstruction and may require multiple treatment sessions.
List of Areola and Nipple Reconstruction Hospitals in New York City
Shafer Plastic Surgery
At Shafer Plastic Surgery in New York City, breast reconstruction, including areola and nipple reconstruction, is highly regarded. After the initial breast reconstruction with either an implant or the patient's tissue, the nipple and areola can be reconstructed. A mound of tissue is made from nearby skin to create a nipple, which is then surrounded by tattooed coloration. Dr. Shafer is an experienced surgeon who can guide patients through the entire reconstruction process and discuss the details of the procedure and expected costs.
Oren Z. Lerman, MD
Dr. Oren Lerman offers nipple reconstruction services at his Manhattan and Westchester offices. He is the director of breast reconstruction at Lenox Hill Hospital's Institute for Comprehensive Breast Care in New York and the director of the breast reconstruction fellowship. The nipple reconstruction process at his practice is an outpatient procedure that can be performed under local anesthesia. It includes creating the nipple from a flap of the patient's own skin and then, after healing, 3D tattooing. Dr. Lerman can help patients achieve a more natural - looking breast restoration.
New York Plastic Surgical Group (Breast Reconstruction Surgery Center)
This “center of excellence” within the New York Plastic Surgical Group offers comprehensive breast reconstruction services, including graft and flap nipple reconstruction and nipple tattooing. The plastic and reconstructive surgeons here have extensive experience, having performed more than 10,000 procedures. They will discuss with patients the best approach for nipple reconstruction based on their individual breast reconstruction treatment plans and inform them about what to expect during the recovery period.
Mount Sinai - Dubin Breast Center
The Dubin Breast Center at Mount Sinai offers expert breast reconstruction services. Plastic surgeons work closely with breast surgeons and oncologists to provide seamless and advanced reconstruction. Areola and nipple reconstruction are performed at a later stage after the initial breast reconstruction, whether it is implant - based or autologous tissue - based. They pay close attention to both medical and aesthetic outcomes.
Project Price List
The cost of areola and nipple reconstruction can vary depending on several factors such as the hospital or clinic, the type of reconstruction technique used, and whether other procedures are being done simultaneously.
Cost at Surgery Centers vs. Outpatient Hospitals
According to Sidecar Health, the average cash price for nipple reconstruction surgery care in New York is significantly different between surgery centers and outpatient hospitals:
| Facility Type | Average Cash Price |
|---|---|
| Surgery Center | $3,548 |
| Outpatient Hospital | $6,302 |
A common nipple reconstruction surgery at a surgery center facility in New York includes the following components and costs:
| Component | Details | Units | Avg Cash Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Surgeon Visit Provider Fee | First time visit, standard | 1 | $144 |
| Provider Fee to Reconstruct Nipple | Standard, standard | 1 | $1,011 |
| Surgery Center Fee to Reconstruct Nipple | Standard, standard | 1 | $1,613 |
| Prescriptions (Hydrocodone - Acetaminophen) | Standard, standard | 30 | $18 |
| Anesthesiologist Fee to be “Put Under” for Procedure | Level 3, standard | 1 | $232 |
| Anesthesiologist Time to be “Put Under” for Procedure | Per minute, standard | 229 | $528 |
| Total Average Cash Price | $3,547.82 |
A common nipple reconstruction surgery at an outpatient hospital facility in New York includes:
| Component | Details | Units | Avg Cash Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Surgeon Visit Provider Fee | First time visit, standard | 1 | $144 |
| Provider Fee to Reconstruct Nipple | Standard, standard | 1 | $1,011 |
| Outpatient Hospital Fee to Reconstruct Nipple | Level 1, standard | 1 | $4,367 |
| Prescriptions (Hydrocodone - Acetaminophen) | Standard, standard | 30 | $18 |
| Anesthesiologist Fee to be “Put Under” for Procedure | Level 3, standard | 1 | $232 |
| Anesthesiologist Time to be “Put Under” for Procedure | Per minute, standard | 229 | $528 |
| Total Average Cash Price | $6,301.66 |
It should be noted that these are just average cash prices and actual costs may vary. Insurance may cover some of the cost of breast reconstruction surgery, including areola and nipple reconstruction, but patients should consult with their insurance providers to understand the details of their coverage.
Choosing the Right Hospital and Surgeon
When choosing a hospital and surgeon for areola and nipple reconstruction, several factors should be considered:
- Experience and Expertise: Look for surgeons who have extensive experience in breast reconstruction, including areola and nipple reconstruction. For example, Dr. Oren Lerman has significant experience in this field as the director of breast reconstruction at Lenox Hill Hospital. Surgeons at the New York Plastic Surgical Group have also performed a large number of breast reconstruction procedures.
- Patient Reviews: Reading patient reviews can give you an idea of the quality of care and patient satisfaction at a particular hospital or with a specific surgeon. Positive reviews can be a good indication of the surgeon's skills and the hospital's ability to provide a supportive environment.
- Communication: A good surgeon should be able to communicate clearly with you, explain the procedures in detail, and address your concerns. For instance, at Shafer Plastic Surgery, Dr. Shafer meets with patients to go over the details of the procedure and the expected cost.
- Cost and Insurance Coverage: As discussed earlier, the cost of the procedure can vary. Consider the cost in relation to your budget and also check with your insurance provider to see what is covered. You may also want to inquire about payment options available at the hospital or clinic.
Recovery and Aftercare
The recovery process after areola and nipple reconstruction is an important part of the overall experience. After the surgery, patients may be asked to wear a nipple shield or a surgical bra to protect the area. Some soreness and swelling are normal, and specific instructions on medication to mitigate these side effects will be provided. It takes about three months for the body to heal from the nipple - creating surgery, and during this time, patients should follow the aftercare instructions carefully. After the healing process, if tattooing is part of the reconstruction, a numbing cream will be applied to ensure a relatively painless experience.
Conclusion
Areola and nipple reconstruction are important procedures that can significantly improve the physical and emotional well - being of patients who have undergone breast - related surgeries. In New York City, there are several hospitals and clinics offering these services, each with its own strengths and areas of expertise. The cost of the procedures can vary depending on the facility and the specific components involved. By carefully considering factors such as the surgeon's experience, patient reviews, cost, and insurance coverage, patients can make an informed decision about where to undergo their reconstruction. Remember, the goal is to achieve a natural - looking and satisfying result that helps you feel confident and whole again.
If you are considering areola and nipple reconstruction, we encourage you to reach out to one of the hospitals or surgeons mentioned in this article. Schedule a consultation to discuss your options in detail and take the first step towards a more complete breast reconstruction journey.
