Many women have questions about their nipples, whether it’s because they’re too large, non-existent, or have been removed due to health issues. But not many know how areola restoration works. Here’s how!
by Troop Atomic Mommy
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Many women have questions about their nipples, whether it’s because they’re too large, non-existent, or have been partially or entirely removed due to health issues. But not many know how areola restoration works.
A complex permanent cosmetics process, the Areola Restoration Procedure can change the nipple’s color, size, and shape. This Areola Restoration Parker, CO is frequently thought of as the final step following significant breast-related procedures such as breast reduction, mastectomies, breast reconstruction, and breast implants.
Tattooing
Areola tattooing is a great way to add color to discolored or lightened areolas. This tattooing is usually done by a Certified Permanent Cosmetic Artist (CPCA). This individual should have certification in micro pigmentation and take accurate measurements to ensure that the areolas are the correct size and symmetry.
Following areola tattooing, patients need to follow aftercare instructions for 14 days. They should avoid washing the tattoo with soap and water for the first few days. Next, they should apply the recommended ointment to the tattooed area and cover it with gauze bandages. Afterward, they should avoid touching it or wearing tight clothing.
Areola restoration tattooing is a great option for breast cancer survivors looking to change their appearance. It gives survivors a natural-looking nipple and boosts self-confidence. The procedure usually takes about an hour.
Skin Grafts
There are two main types of skin grafts for areola restoration: full and split. Full skin grafts are dark enough to match the areolar pigmentation and are used for both the areola and the nipple. A small hole is made in the center of the graft for the areolar-pigmented scar to be brought through. The other type of skin graft is split and used for the papilla.
The skin graft for areola restoration can be harvested from a donor site. The graft is made from tissue from a different breast and is then inserted into the deformed area of the areola. After the skin graft is positioned on the areola, an interrupted suture of 4/0 ethilon is placed in the area surrounding the areola. A hole is then fashioned in the middle of the skin graft, and a previously created nipple projection is pulled through the hole. It creates a new nipple complex and a new areola.
Skin Repositioning
Areola restoration can be achieved using a variety of techniques. These techniques typically involve skin repositioning. In the case of moderately-sized breasts, a prosthetic implant or a vascularized soft-tissue flap may be utilized to reposition the areola. In the case of a large-breasted patient, a more complex reconstructive approach is required.
A partial-thickness incision is used for patients with minimal to moderate breast sagging. This method removes a crescent-shaped portion of skin from the upper areola, and the skin envelope is then repositioned. The implant is placed in the new location without moving the nipple. In smaller cases of ptosis, a doughnut-shaped incision can be used. It removes excess skin from the areola and repositions the nipple. This procedure can also be used to reduce the size of the areola.
Combination of These Techniques
The combined use of both of these techniques is an option for patients who have experienced areola loss. In this procedure, the donor nipple is used to create a new nipple that is dark enough to match the donor nipple. The graft is then brought through a small incision in the center of the areola. The remaining nipple is also used as a papilla.
These procedures are generally associated with a high rate of patient satisfaction. The main objective is to create a natural-appearing areola with a natural color, texture, size, projection, and position. The most common techniques for areola restoration involve skin grafting, tattooing, or a combination of these techniques. The choice of procedure is determined by the surgeon and the circumstances of the patient’s case. Generally, skin grafting is preferable in an immediate setting, while tattooing is usually performed 6 to 8 weeks later. Some surgeons, however, advocate for simultaneous nipple creation and tattooing.
Creating an Illusion of a Nipple
The procedure uses pigments or tints to create the illusion of a natural areola in the breast mound. This treatment benefits both men and women who have had mastopexy or mastectomies and have lost or faded areolas. The procedure also works to create symmetry and diffuse a circular scar. In addition, it is helpful for women who have lost or fading areolas due to cancer or other medical conditions.
This non-surgical procedure recreates the appearance of an actual areola with a nipple. It’s commonly used for women who have undergone a mastectomy. The procedure can also be used on women with breast cancer.
The Takeaway
Each cosmetic procedure listed above can provide some form of areola restoration. Of course, before opting for any single treatment, be sure to consult with a specialized medical professional, one who works in both breast and nipple reconstruction as well as pigment and skin grafting. Remember not to feel overwhelmed with the information, and review each piece of information at a pace that fits your life and well-being.