Nipple Reconstruction After Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction: A “Matched-Pair” Outcome Analysis Focusing on the Effects of Radiotherapy

Abstract

Nipple reconstruction is often viewed as the final stage of breast reconstruction. It is the proverbial cherry on top and a defining characteristic of a completed breast reconstruction, depending on the desires of the patient. The topic of nipple reconstruction has often focused on optimizing technique not only for an aesthetically pleasing reconstruction but also with great focus on creating and maintaining nipple projection. The authors pursued evaluation of nipple reconstruction as a source of morbidity in the setting of radiotherapy after implant-based breast reconstruction. Given the variability of postoperative results in breast reconstruction after radiotherapy, we targeted a population of female patients who underwent bilateral mastectomy with implant-based reconstruction and bilateral nipple reconstruction with unilateral radiotherapy. Our findings demonstrate that nipple reconstruction is a safe procedure; however, the setting of an irradiated field increases the complication rate.