Introduction
Nipple protective resection and reconstruction are significant procedures for individuals who have undergone mastectomy or have other nipple - related issues. In New York City, a hub of medical excellence, there are numerous hospitals and clinics that offer these services. This article aims to provide a comprehensive list of hospitals, along with relevant information about the procedures, doctors, and what patients can expect.
Understanding Nipple Protective Resection and Reconstruction
What is Nipple Protective Resection?
Nipple protective resection is a surgical approach where the goal is to remove breast tissue while sparing the nipple and areola complex. This is a delicate procedure that requires high - level surgical skills and is often considered when treating breast cancer. The aim is to preserve the natural appearance of the breast as much as possible, which can have a positive impact on the patient's body image and self - esteem after the treatment. It is important for patients to understand that the decision for nipple - sparing surgery depends on several factors, including the size and location of the tumor, the type of breast cancer, and the patient's overall health.
What is Nipple Reconstruction?
Nipple reconstruction is a surgical procedure that rebuilds or recreates a nipple on a reconstructed breast. It is usually performed as a separate surgery after the flap or implant breast reconstruction surgery is complete. The reconstruction of the nipple and areola (the pigmented area surrounding the nipple) allows plastic and reconstructive surgeons to create the most natural - looking breast reconstruction results possible. There are different techniques for nipple reconstruction, including graft nipple reconstruction, flap nipple reconstruction, and nipple tattooing.
Types of Nipple Reconstruction Techniques
Graft Nipple Reconstruction
In a graft nipple reconstruction, a plastic surgeon will take skin from a donor site and attach it to the newly constructed breast. The donor site for the nipple can come from the nipple of the other breast in cases of a single - breast mastectomy, or from the earlobe or labia if a double mastectomy is being performed. The donor site for the areola can come from a variety of areas, including the scar from a flap reconstruction procedure, the crease of the buttock, or the inner thigh. This technique allows for the creation of a more natural - looking nipple, but it also has some potential drawbacks, such as the risk of poor graft survival and scarring at the donor site.
Flap Nipple Reconstruction
Flap nipple reconstruction involves the creation of the nipple from a skin flap taken from the area directly beside the region where the new nipple will be placed. This technique has an advantage over the graft technique as it keeps the original blood supply flowing into the new nipple, providing a greater chance for the successful acceptance of the graft. As the flap approach does not require a donor site, it typically results in less scarring around the area of the reconstructed nipple and areola. However, it may be more technically challenging for the surgeon.
Nipple Tattooing
Nipple tattooing is often the final step in the nipple reconstruction process. It involves the medical use of typical tattooing equipment, with the ultimate goal of creating a natural - looking nipple that complements the skin color and tone. A team of surgeons will mix a variety of pigments to match the color of the remaining nipple, or in the case of a bilateral reconstruction, to the patient's preoperative photos. While nipple tattooing can create the appearance of a realistic nipple, patients should understand that tattooing alone will not create the same natural - looking appearance as a complete nipple reconstruction, and may require multiple treatment sessions to achieve the correct color.
Benefits of Nipple Protective Resection and Reconstruction
- Improved Body Image: Reconstructing the nipple can give patients a more natural - looking breast, which can significantly boost their body image and self - confidence. After mastectomy, many patients feel self - conscious about the appearance of their chest. Nipple reconstruction can help them feel more comfortable in their own skin.
- Emotional Well - being: These procedures can have a profound impact on the emotional recovery of a patient after breast cancer treatment. Restoring the breast tissue and nipples can help make a patient feel "normal" and "whole" again, reducing the psychological stress associated with the loss of the nipple.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Patients who feel confident in their own skin often experience improvements in their personal and professional lives. Self - esteem and body image are important elements of mental health and overall quality of life. With a more natural - looking breast, patients may be more willing to engage in social activities and intimate relationships.
Hospitals and Clinics in New York City for Nipple Protective Resection and Reconstruction
New York - Presbyterian Hospitals
Many doctors on Healthgrades' list, such as Dr. Eloise Chapman - Davis, Dr. Heather Yeo, and Dr. Evelyn Cantillo, are on staff at New York - Presbyterian lower Manhattan hospital. These doctors have high patient ratings, indicating their proficiency in nipple reconstruction. For example, Dr. Eloise Chapman - Davis has a 4.90 - star rating out of 5. New York - Presbyterian is a well - known and respected medical institution in New York City. It offers a comprehensive range of services for breast cancer patients, including nipple protective resection and reconstruction. The hospital has a team of experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeons, oncologists, and breast surgeons who work together to provide seamless and advanced care. The hospital also has state - of - the - art facilities and access to the latest research and treatment options.
Mount Sinai - New York
At the Dubin Breast Center of Mount Sinai - New York, expert breast reconstruction services are offered. The plastic surgeons work closely with breast surgeons and oncologists to focus on both medical and aesthetic outcomes. Breast reconstruction at Mount Sinai is often done in stages, and nipple reconstruction is performed at a later date. They offer two main types of breast reconstruction: implant reconstruction and autologous tissue reconstruction. In implant reconstruction, a tissue expander is placed first at the time of mastectomy, and later replaced with a permanent implant. Autologous reconstruction uses the patient's own tissue, such as skin and fat from the lower abdomen or skin and muscle from the back. The hospital has a reputation for providing high - quality, patient - centered care and is at the forefront of medical innovation in breast reconstruction.
Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery
Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery offers reconstructive and corrective procedures for nipple - related issues on Park Avenue in NYC. Dr. Brian Bassiri - Tehrani provides surgery tailored to each patient's individual goals. They can treat a variety of conditions, including breast reconstruction after mastectomy or burns, inverted nipples, nipple asymmetry, nipple reduction, and areola reduction. The consultation process at Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery involves using 3D Vectra imaging to create an individualized treatment plan. Most procedures can be performed under local anesthesia, and the recovery period is relatively short, usually 1 to 3 days. The practice also offers clear information about the cost of procedures, with nipple reconstruction and correction surgeries costing between $2,000 to $12,000, and insurance coverage is available only in the context of previous breast cancer.
Rowe Plastic Surgery
With facilities in Manhattan, Long Island, New Jersey, and the Hamptons, Rowe Plastic Surgery specializes in cosmetic breast procedures, including nipple reconstruction and correction. Their board - certified cosmetic surgeons have extensive experience in handling different nipple - related cases. They distinguish between nipple reconstruction, which rebuilds a nipple on a reconstructed breast, and nipple correction, which modifies complications associated with the nipples such as enlarged, asymmetrical, protruding, or inverted nipples. The clinic offers a variety of techniques for nipple surgery, including nipple reconstruction with surrounding skin, skin grafting, medical tattooing, nipple sharing, and mastopexy revision. The recovery process at Rowe Plastic Surgery is well - managed, with the surgeons providing detailed post - operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery for the patients.
Oren Z. Lerman, MD
Dr. Oren Lerman, the director of breast reconstruction at Lenox Hill Hospital's Institute for Comprehensive Breast Care in New York, offers nipple reconstruction. He has a long - standing reputation for his expertise in reconstructive breast surgery. The nipple reconstruction process at his practice is a two - part procedure. First, a small procedure creates the elevated appearance of the nipple projection from a flap of the patient's own skin. After the healing period, 3D tattooing is performed to create a realistic areola. The procedure is usually an outpatient one, performed under local anesthesia. Dr. Lerman has received 5 - star reviews from patients, highlighting his excellent bedside manner and surgical skills.
William Samson, MD
Dr. William Samson offers nipple reconstruction services in the NYC area. He strives to provide some of the best nipple reconstruction results in the city while setting realistic expectations for his patients. Before the surgery, he carefully assesses the patient's medical and surgical history and conducts a thorough examination. He offers several techniques for nipple reconstruction, such as building a new nipple with the surrounding skin, creating the new nipple with surrounding skin and an areola with a skin graft, and nipple sharing. After the surgery, he provides detailed instructions for recovery, and the cost of the procedure depends on the technique used. Most nipple reconstruction procedures due to mastectomy are covered by many insurance plans.
Choosing the Right Hospital and Doctor
Doctor Ratings and Experience
It is crucial to consider the ratings and experience of the doctors. Websites like Healthgrades can be a valuable resource. In New York City, for example, there are 104 doctors who perform nipple reconstruction according to Healthgrades. Doctors with at least 3 or more past patient ratings can give you more confidence in their experience. For instance, Dr. Philip Torina and Dr. David Otterburn have a 5.00 - star rating out of 5, indicating high patient satisfaction. Looking at a doctor's track record in performing nipple reconstruction surgeries can help you gauge their proficiency and the likelihood of a successful outcome.
Hospital Facilities and Reputation
The facilities and reputation of the hospital are also important. Well - equipped hospitals with access to the latest technology and research are more likely to offer high - quality care. Hospitals like New York - Presbyterian and Mount Sinai have a long - standing reputation for excellence in medical care. They have multidisciplinary teams that can provide comprehensive support throughout the treatment process, from diagnosis to post - operative care. A hospital's reputation can also be an indicator of its patient - safety record and the quality of its nursing staff and ancillary services.
Patient - Doctor Communication
Effective communication between the patient and the doctor is essential. During the consultation, the doctor should listen to the patient's concerns and goals, and provide clear and detailed information about the procedure, the expected results, and the potential risks. A doctor who takes the time to answer all of the patient's questions and addresses their fears can help the patient make an informed decision about the treatment. For example, at Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery, Dr. Brian Bassiri - Tehrani focuses on providing individualized care and encourages patients to ask questions during the consultation.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
Cost Factors
The cost of nipple protective resection and reconstruction can vary widely. Factors that affect the cost include the type of surgery technique used, combining multiple breast procedures (such as breast lift, enlargement, or reduction) with nipple reconstruction, the expertise of the surgeon, and the location of the hospital or clinic. For example, more complex techniques like skin grafting or nipple sharing may be more expensive than using surrounding skin to create the nipple. At Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery, nipple reconstruction and correction surgeries cost between $2,000 to $12,000, depending on the specific requirements of the patient.
Insurance Coverage
According to the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998 (WHCRA), insurance plans must cover the cost of breast reconstruction after a mastectomy and other reconstructive procedures. However, it is important to check with your insurance provider to confirm the details of your coverage. Some plans may have specific requirements or limitations, and it is advisable to have your doctor work with the insurance provider to ensure proper authorization for the procedure. For instance, at Pearlman Aesthetic Surgery, nipple reconstruction is covered by insurance only in the context of previous breast cancer.
Recovery Process
Immediate Post - operative Care
After nipple reconstruction surgery, patients can expect some pain, numbness, and soreness around the incisions on their breasts for a week or two. Doctors usually provide pain medication or anti - inflammatory drugs as needed to ease the short - term discomfort. The reconstructed area is often dressed with a nipple shield or a surgical bra to promote fast and effective healing. Patients are typically instructed to keep the dressing in place and clean for seven to 10 days or until directed to remove it. They should also avoid tight bras and clothing over the nipple to prevent shape changes or infection. For example, at Rowe Plastic Surgery, patients are given detailed post - operative care instructions, and the surgeons are available for virtual calls during the recovery period.
Long - term Recovery
The reconstructed area takes about 10 days to heal fully. Patients should avoid heavy lifting for several weeks until fully healed to avoid damaging the sutures. Depending on the nature of their occupation, they may be able to return to work the next day, but should avoid any strenuous tasks or heavy lifting. The reconstructed nipples may initially look red, swollen, and have visible scarring, but they will gradually heal and settle into their new shape. If nipple tattooing is part of the plan, patients will need to wait between 4 to 6 months after the surgery for the area to properly heal before getting the tattoo.
Conclusion
Nipple protective resection and reconstruction are important procedures for individuals looking to restore the appearance and function of their breasts after mastectomy or other nipple - related issues. In New York City, there are many excellent hospitals and clinics that offer these services, along with highly experienced doctors. When considering these procedures, it is important to understand the different techniques available, the benefits, the cost, and the recovery process. By choosing the right hospital and doctor, patients can increase their chances of a successful outcome and a better quality of life.
If you or someone you know is considering nipple protective resection and reconstruction, we encourage you to take the next step. Research the hospitals and doctors mentioned in this article, schedule consultations, and have in - depth discussions about your goals and expectations. Share this article with others who may find it helpful, and explore more about breast reconstruction and related topics to make the most informed decision possible.
