Nipple reconstruction

The nipple can be reconstructed by a number of means:

• skin graft from:
  • excess skin from another part of breast
  • groin
• elevation and 'tubing' of the skin in the centre of the breast mound with undermining of the surrounding skin so that it can be drawn in to cover the defect
• colouration of the skin at the centre of the breast mound:
  • tattooing
  • laser treatment

None of these techniques are ideal. Some women prefer the option of a custom-made prosthesis that can be stuck on to the front of the breast.