Patient Satisfaction Increases with Nipple Reconstruction following Autologous Breast Reconstruction. Issue 2 (15th June 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Egan, Katie G.; Cullom, Melissa; Nazir, Niaman; Butterworth, James A.
• Is Part Of: Plastic and reconstructive surgery. Volume 148:Issue 2(2021)
• Page Start: 177e
• Page End: 184e
• Publication Date: 2021-06-15
• Subjects: Surgery, Plastic -- Periodicals; 617.95205
• DOI: 10.1097/PRS.0000000000008180
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0032-1052

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Nipple reconstruction has been linked to patient satisfaction; however, there is debate about the validity of these findings in autologous breast reconstruction patients. This study hypothesized that satisfaction would increase with nipple reconstruction following autologous breast reconstruction. Methods: A comparison study was performed of autologous breast reconstruction patients. Patients completed a survey that included BREAST-Q and nipple satisfaction measures. A chart review identified reconstructive details. Results: A total of 191 patients completed the survey (48 percent response rate), with an average age of 53.7 ± 10.0 years and follow-up time of 2.8 ± 1.5 years. Nipple-areola complex reconstruction was completed in 33 percent of patients (63 of 191). Nipple-areola complex tattoos were used most frequently [ n = 37 (58 percent)], followed by local flaps [ n = 10 (16 percent)], free nipple-areola complex grafts [ n = 9 (14 percent)], and a combination of local flaps and tattoos [ n = 7 (11 percent)]. In comparison to women who did not undergo nipple-areola complex reconstruction, women who underwent any type of nipple reconstruction had a statistically higher BREAST-Q score for Sexual Well-Being (60 ± 24 versus 50 ± 22; p = 0.01), Postoperative Satisfaction with Breasts (65 ± 11 versus 61 ± 12; p = 0.01), and Satisfaction with Surgeon (97 ± 6 versus 93 ± 16; p = 0.009). The average nipple satisfaction score was 74 ± 19. There were correlations between the nipple satisfaction score and BREAST-Q scores for Sexual Well-Being ( r = 0.50; p < 0.001), Psychosocial Well-Being ( r = 0.43; p < 0.001), and Postoperative Satisfaction with Breasts ( r = 0.43; p < 0.001). Conclusion: Reconstruction of the nipple-areola complex is an important part of autologous breast reconstruction, resulting in increased sexual well-being and satisfaction with reconstructed breasts.