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Dr. Placik |Nipple Reconstruction Chicago

Nipple cosmetic goals are personal and subjective — there is no such thing as the perfect nipple. Some patients may feel that if one areola is larger than the other, they require a nipple reduction, while others may feel that the opposite nipple is simply too small. Nipple reconstruction can be performed to improve aesthetics, or as part of breast reconstruction. While irregularly sized nipples and areolae may not cause physical health problems, the resulting psychological issues can cause both men and women to pursue nipple reconstruction.

Dr. Otto Placik specializes in all types of breast enhancement, including nipple reconstruction. A board certified plastic surgeon serving Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, Dr. Placik is highly skilled in nipple reconstruction, and can also offer a number of suggestions for procedures that could help improve the appearance of your entire breast as well.

Please contact us online or call our Chicago or Arlington Heights plastic surgery offices for more information on nipple reconstruction surgery, including prices.

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in Chicago

Dr. Otto Joseph Placik Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Placik is a board certified plastic surgeon in Chicago and an active member of The American Society of Plastic Surgeons. He received his medical degree from Northwestern University where he also completed residencies in general and plastic and reconstructive surgery.

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About Nipple Reconstruction

There are a number of scenarios that could be responsible for men or women pursuing nipple reconstruction:

  • One nipple rests lower or higher on the breast than the other
  • One or both areolae are misshapen or vary in size
  • Nipple reconstruction performed as part of breast augmentation
  • Nipple reconstruction performed as part of breast reconstruction
  • Nipple reconstruction performed following trauma or injury or previous surgery

Nipple reconstruction can also include tattooing the areolae. Areolae tattooing is one of the most simple and successful solutions for those men and women who believe one areola is too small. Areolar tattoos are often included as part of breast reconstruction process as the finishing touch after the emotional journey of breast cancer. Tattooing the areolae can help improve the perceived shape and symmetry of the nipples. Dr. Placik can choose from an array of ink colors to accurately match any skin tone in order to ensure very natural-looking results. However, tattooing is only an optical effect, and physical reconstruction will be required for concerns over nipple structure and texture.

Actual
Patient Not a Model

Dr. Placik can reconstruct the nipples through a combination of carefully arranged flaps. Alternatively, he may use skin from the opposite nipple with similar texture and color for a grafting procedure. Other donor sites are used in more rare circumstances. However, nipples constructed in this manner will not retain the physical sensitivity of natural nipples as they lack the same nerves and blood supply. After a nipple is grafted, areola tattooing may be necessary to fine-tune your final result.

After nipple reconstruction, Dr. Placik applies a protective dressing. Additionally, the area is dressed with an antibiotic ointment, which must be changed often over a handful of weeks. To reduce potential complications, women should wear a non-compressing bra. Nipple reconstruction surgery takes approximately 2 hours, although each case varies by individual.

Nipple Reconstruction FAQ

Am I a candidate for nipple reconstruction?

Dr. Placik has extensive experience in cosmetic breast enhancement as well as medically necessary reconstructive procedures, and is meticulous in his surgical techniques to create a result that looks as natural and beautiful as possible.

Will my reconstructed nipple look real?

Dr. Placik has extensive experience in cosmetic breast enhancement as well as medically necessary reconstructive procedures, and is meticulous in his surgical techniques to create a result that looks as natural and beautiful as possible.

Will I have sensation in my reconstructed nipple?

The type of surgery required for nipple reconstruction will directly impact the level of sensation you feel after surgery. For example, a simple areola tattoo on a normal breast won’t affect the sensitivity of your nipple at all. However, nipple reconstruction performed as part of reconstructive surgery is a more complex procedure that is likely to impact nerve sensation.

How much does reconstruction cost?

The price of reconstructing the nipple will be different for each patient depending on whether reconstruction is performed in combination with other procedures and the level of correction that Dr. Placik recommends. If your health insurance pays for reconstructive breast surgery, then nipple reconstruction is typically covered as part of that. Dr. Placik and his staff strive to provide excellent value and can help you with cosmetic surgery financing to make your procedure even more affordable.

What are the risks?

There are minimal risks associated with reconstructing the nipples, and these vary depending on whether the procedure is minimal (such as tattooing), more involved or performed as part of a larger breast reconstruction. Dr. Placik will go over all the necessary information before your procedure so you know exactly what to expect ahead of time.

Dr. Placik promises you his best possible care and attention. If you would like to schedule a private consultation to learn more about nipple reconstruction surgery, please contact us online or call us at 847-398-1660.

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