Introduction
Nipple and areola reconstruction is an important part of the breast reconstruction process for many women who have undergone mastectomy or other breast - related surgeries. In New York City, a hub of medical excellence, there are numerous hospitals and clinics offering these services. This article aims to provide a comprehensive ranking list of hospitals for nipple and areola reconstruction in New York City along with price information. We'll also delve into various aspects such as the types of reconstruction, recovery, success rates, and alternatives.
Importance of Nipple and Areola Reconstruction
After breast cancer surgery, such as a mastectomy or lumpectomy, many women feel a significant loss not only physically but also emotionally. The nipple and areola are important aesthetic and sensory parts of the breast. Reconstructing them can help a woman regain her sense of femininity and self - confidence, which is crucial during the cancer recovery process. It can contribute to a more natural - looking breast and enhance the overall psychological well - being of the patient.
Types of Breast Reconstruction and Nipple/Areola Reconstruction
Types of Breast Reconstruction
There are two main types of breast reconstruction: flap reconstruction (autologous/skin flap surgery) and tissue expander (implants/prosthetics).
- Flap Reconstruction: In this technique, a tissue flap is taken from a donor site of your body, such as the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, or back. The flap is grafted at the place of your breasts. Its blood supply can be taken from the donor site, or it can be cut off from there, and a new supply is established. After the grafting, stitches are applied, drainage tubes are inserted to drain excess fluid or blood from the site, and bandages are applied over it.
- Tissue Expander (Breast Implant): This is the most common technique used worldwide. A synthetic implant is inserted under the pectoralis major muscle. Silicone implants are most commonly used. Animal dermal grafts are used to cover the site to give it a more aesthetic appearance. Within a few months, saline solution is injected to expand the tissue until it reaches the appropriate size.
Types of Nipple and Areola Reconstruction
There are two main approaches to nipple reconstruction: graft nipple reconstruction and flap nipple reconstruction.
- Graft Nipple Reconstruction: The plastic surgeon will take skin from a donor site and attach it to the newly constructed breast. For a single - breast mastectomy, the donor site for the nipple can be the nipple of the other breast. In the case of a double mastectomy, it can come from the earlobe or labia. 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.
- Flap Nipple Reconstruction: This 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. It keeps the original blood supply flowing into the new nipple and provides a greater chance for the successful acceptance of the graft. Also, it typically results in less scarring around the area of the reconstructed nipple and areola.
Nipple tattooing is often the final step in the nipple reconstruction process. It involves the medical use of typical tattooing equipment to create a natural - looking nipple that complements the skin color and tone.
Ranking of Hospitals for Nipple and Areola Reconstruction in New York City
1. Mount Sinai Hospital
Mount Sinai Hospital is a top - tier institution in New York City. It is nationally ranked in 12 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties and high - performing in 20 procedures/conditions. At the Dubin Breast Center, they offer expert breast reconstruction. Their plastic surgeons work closely with breast surgeons and oncologists to provide seamless and advanced care. They pay close attention to both medical and aesthetic outcomes. After breast reconstruction using either implants or autologous tissue, they perform nipple reconstruction at a later date. The hospital's reputation for high - quality care and experienced medical staff makes it a prime choice for nipple and areola reconstruction.
2. New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell
This hospital is also highly regarded. It is nationally ranked in 14 adult specialties and 10 pediatric specialties and high - performing in 1 specialty and 20 procedures/conditions. The hospital has a team of skilled surgeons who are well - versed in the latest techniques for breast and nipple/areola reconstruction. Their comprehensive approach to patient care, including pre - operative consultations, surgical procedures, and post - operative follow - ups, ensures that patients receive the best possible treatment.
3. NYU Langone Hospitals
NYU Langone Hospitals are nationally ranked in 13 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties and high - performing in 1 specialty and 21 procedures/conditions. Their breast reconstruction services are comprehensive, and they offer multiple options for nipple and areola reconstruction. The hospital has state - of - the - art facilities and a team of surgeons who are experts in their field. They are also actively involved in research, which allows them to offer the latest advancements in breast reconstruction techniques.
4. North Shore University Hospital at Northwell Health
Nationally ranked in 9 adult specialties and high - performing in 15 procedures/conditions, this hospital is known for its high - quality medical care. Their breast reconstruction program includes specialized care for nipple and areola reconstruction. The hospital's experienced medical team uses advanced techniques to ensure the best possible aesthetic and functional results for patients.
5. Lenox Hill Hospital at Northwell Health
Lenox Hill Hospital is nationally ranked in 10 adult specialties and high - performing in 1 specialty and 16 procedures/conditions. They offer a range of breast reconstruction options, and their nipple and areola reconstruction services are performed with precision. The hospital's patient - centered approach and commitment to providing personalized care make it a popular choice among patients.
Price List for Nipple Reconstruction in New York City
The cost of nipple reconstruction surgery can vary depending on the facility where the procedure is performed. According to Sidecar Health, the average cash price for nipple reconstruction surgery care in New York is $3,548 at a surgery center versus $6,302 at an outpatient hospital.
| 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:
| Component | 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 |
A common nipple reconstruction surgery at an outpatient hospital facility in New York includes:
| Component | 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 |
Recovery and Aftercare for Nipple and Areola Reconstruction
Recovery Time
The recovery time for nipple and areola reconstruction depends on the type of breast reconstruction surgery previously performed and the individual patient. Generally, nipple and areola reconstruction is performed about three to six months after the first stage of breast reconstruction. After the procedure, there will be swelling and soreness around the site in the first week. Most women need a couple of weeks to recover, and it usually takes 8 weeks to start seeing signs of full recovery. On average, 3 - 4 weeks are needed to recover from tissue expander surgery and 4 - 6 weeks for flap reconstructive surgery. Wear surgical bras to support your reconstructed breasts while you are recovering. Regular activities can be restarted after 2 months, and it may take almost 1 - 2 years for the breasts to get the proper shape and for the scars to fade away.
Aftercare
- Follow the instructions given by your doctor and take your medicines as and when prescribed.
- Consult a nutritionist for a diet plan. A healthy diet helps you recover faster.
- Do not wear a padded or underwire bra until allowed by your doctor. Use surgical bras in the early few days after the surgery.
- Avoid excessive unnecessary movement of your breasts. Do not lift heavy objects and children as it could stretch the stitches.
- Change your bandage whenever it gets dirty. Germs can cause infection.
- Do not take a bath when the bandages are still intact. A wet bandage can also be the cause of infection.
- Abstain from sexual activity for at least 6 weeks.
- Take rest and give yourself time to recover.
Success Rate of Nipple and Areola Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction surgery, including nipple and areola reconstruction, has a high success rate. Complications usually only occur in case of infection or a blood clot formation. According to a study by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the success rate is found to be 98% in the case of flap reconstruction surgery. While for tissue expander surgery, the success rate is within the region of 94 - 96%. However, it's important to remember that any surgical procedure comes with risks and side effects. These may include infection at the surgery site, itching, pain and discomfort, tingling, numbness, or fluid collection under the wound. If you see any fluid leaking from incision sites, experience increased pain or swelling, notice a change in color in the scar area or the breast, or you have a fever above 100 °Fahrenheit/37.7 °Celsius, be sure to contact your doctor right away.
Alternatives to Nipple and Areola Reconstruction
While nipple and areola reconstruction can be a great option for many women, it may not be suitable for everyone. Here are some alternatives:
- Breast Prosthetics: Prosthetic breasts can be worn inside your bras or they can be attached to your body. They give the appearance of natural breasts.
- Padded Bras: These are not as uncomfortable as prosthetic breasts. They give you a perfect body posture without going through the surgery.
- Go Flat: You can embrace your freedom and accept yourself as you are. There is no need to wear padded bras or prosthetic breasts, and no need to go through surgery.
Finding the Right Doctor for Nipple and Areola Reconstruction
Finding the right doctor is crucial for a successful nipple and areola reconstruction. In New York, there are 104 doctors who perform nipple reconstruction. Doctors who perform nipple reconstruction in this region have an average rating of 4.3 stars. Some of the top - rated doctors include:
- Dr. Philip Torina, MD: Rated 5.00 out of 5 stars, located at 5 E 98th St #2, New York, NY 10029.
- Dr. David Otterburn, MD: Rated 5.00 out of 5 stars, located at 525 East 68th Street Starr 8, New York, NY 10065.
- Dr. Eloise Chapman - Davis, MD: Rated 4.90 out of 5 stars, located at 525 East 68th Street Suite J - 130, New York, NY 10065. She is on staff at New York - Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital.
Conclusion
Nipple and areola reconstruction in New York City offers a range of options for women who have undergone breast - related surgeries. The city is home to some of the best hospitals and doctors in the field, providing high - quality care and using the latest techniques. The cost of the procedure can vary depending on the facility, and it's important to consider both the price and the quality of care. Recovery time and aftercare play a significant role in the success of the reconstruction. While the success rate of the surgery is high, it's essential to be aware of the potential risks and side effects. Additionally, there are alternatives to reconstruction that may be more suitable for some patients. By doing thorough research and consulting with experienced doctors, women can make informed decisions about their breast reconstruction journey.
If you or someone you know is considering nipple and areola reconstruction in New York City, we encourage you to share this article with others who may benefit from the information. Take the next step in your journey by researching the hospitals and doctors mentioned, and schedule a consultation to discuss your options further.
