Usually, you’ll have nipple reconstruction a few months after your main breast reconstruction surgery. This waiting period gives your breast time to heal and settle into its final shape after any swelling has gone down. 

Depending on your health, comfort and type of reconstruction surgery, you may be able to have nipple and areola reconstruction done: 

• In your surgeon’s office, using local anesthesia 
• As a short outpatient procedure
• At the same time as minor touch-up or symmetry surgery 

How nipple reconstruction works 

There are several ways to recreate the nipple and areola area, including surgery, tattooing or a combination of both. Your care team will help you choose the best method based on your goals and comfort level. 

• Surgical reconstruction: In nipple reconstruction surgery, surgeons lift and shape small flaps of skin on the breast to create a raised nipple. 
• Skin graft reconstruction: A small piece of skin from a different part of the body is used to create the areola and possible nipple. 
• Areola creation: Once the area has healed, medical 3D areola tattooing can add natural color and shading to match your skin tone. 
• 3D nipple tattooing: This non-surgical option uses light and shading to create the illusion of a nipple and areola. 

These simple, outpatient procedures are generally quick with fast recovery times. They may help you feel more complete after reconstruction. 

Deciding if nipple and areola reconstruction is right for you 

Choosing nipple and areola reconstruction is a personal decision.  

You may want to complete this final step or you may be comfortable without it. You may choose to wait, skip it or consider tattooing later.

Your decision might depend on:

• How your reconstructed breast looks and feels
• Your comfort with additional procedures
• Your emotional readiness or body image goals 

Keep in mind that a reconstructed nipple won’t function like a natural nipple. It will not have feeling or react to temperature or touch. Whatever you decide, your Banner Health team will explain your timing and technique options and support you. 

Learn more about deciding what breast reconstruction option is right for you.

Recovery after nipple or areola reconstruction usually doesn’t take long: 

• Mild swelling, redness or tenderness is normal for a few days. 
• You’ll want to keep the area clean and dry and avoid tight clothing, pressure or friction on the area until your surgeon says it’s OK. 
• Tattoo colors may fade slightly over time. You can have them refreshed later, if needed. 
• Most people return to regular activities within a few days. 

Your surgeon will give you detailed aftercare instructions and schedule a follow-up visit to check your healing.  

Learn more about recovery and aftercare from breast reconstruction surgery. 

At Banner Health we use advanced techniques to achieve realistic, natural results. Whether you choose surgical nipple reconstruction, 3D tattooing, both or neither, we’ll guide you through every option with care that focuses on your comfort, confidence and long-term healing.