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Simultaneous nipple reconstruction in autologous breast reconstruction.

Background
Reconstruction of the nipple-areola complex is the final step in surgical restoration of the breast. Nipple-areola reconstruction was previously done after an interval of several months using variable techniques, often resulting in low projection and flattened breast mound over time. We present algorithm of simultaneous nipple reconstruction (SNR) that leaves adequate residual projection and naturally shaped breast mound.


Methods
Forty patients underwent a skin-sparing mastectomy and nipple excision between October 2016 and December 2020. In the control group, 21 patients underwent delayed nipple reconstruction for 6 months after breast reconstruction. The experimental group of 19 patients underwent nipple and breast reconstruction simultaneously. We collected relevant information and photographs of nipple profiles of both groups in the preoperative, postoperative 6-month, and postoperative 1-year time periods. We also examined the ratio between the reconstructed and contralateral nipples.


Results
Scores regarding patient satisfaction questionnaire averaged higher in experimental groups to every category. The control group's scores gradually declined over time and the experimental group showed lesser decline. At the 1-year postoperative follow-up, the mean projection of the immediately reconstructed nipple was approximately the same as the contralateral nipple at 91%, whereas the delayed reconstructed nipple resulted in a 77% ratio.


Conclusions
Nipple reconstruction should no longer be considered as a secondary complement to immediate breast reconstruction. The nipple appears to be essential component of breast reconstruction for patient. SNR with immediate breast reconstruction is a simple and reliable technique, giving stable aesthetic results over time.