Areola and Nipple Reconstruction in Breast Cancer and Other Conditions.

Abstract

Medical tattoos are used for camouflage of a wide range of disfiguring skin pathologies and conditions. Recently, tattooing of the nipple and areola of the breast has been introduced as a corrective treatment of sequelae from breast cancer surgery and radiotherapy. The psychologic impact of a disfigured nipple and areola can invalidate self-esteem of the sufferer lifelong with major consequences for social life. Medical tattooing can often restore the visual appearance of the nipple-areolar complex back to normality and even improve the 3D impression of the entire breast. High skills of the operator are needed. The article reviews the theoretical background, patient selection and information, technical performance, and aftercare. Close cooperation between surgeon, dermatologist, and medical tattooist is essential. Medical centers treating breast cancer should routinely have access to corrective medical tattooing.