Nipple-sparing mastectomy: evaluation of patient satisfaction, aesthetic results, and sensation.

Full Abstract

The purpose of this study is to describe our experience with nipple-sparing mastectomy and immediate reconstruction, with particular attention to patient satisfaction, aesthetic results, and nipple sensation. Immediate reconstruction was performed on 17 breasts in 10 patients, using either implants or autologous tissue flaps. Assessment of outcomes was performed through patient interviews, a self-reported patient satisfaction survey and review of postoperative photographs. Short-term complications included partial loss of the nipple-areolar complex requiring debridement (n = 3) and removal of the nipple-areolar complex (n = 2) for occult ductal carcinoma in situ. While all patients with completed breast reconstructions were satisfied with their general reconstructive experience, 6 of 9 patients were aesthetically satisfied with their breast reconstruction. Postoperative nipple sensation was reported in 75% of patients, although sensation was low (mean of 2.8 of 10). As nipple-sparing mastectomy is becoming an increasing patient preference, preoperative discussion needs to address expectations, aesthetic satisfaction, and long-term cancer control.

Author information

Author/s: Yueh, Janet H (JH); Houlihan, Mary Jane (MJ); Slavin, Sumner A (SA); Lee, Bernard T (BT); Pories, Susan E (SE); Morris, Donald J (DJ);

Affiliation: Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA.

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Evaluation Studies; Journal Article; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

Journal: Annals of plastic surgery (Ann Plast Surg), published in United States. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2009-May; vol 62 (issue 5) : pp 586-90

Dates: Created 2009/04/23; Completed 2009/06/22;

PMID: 19387167, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 6/22/2009, IMS Date: 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00)

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

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