Procedure preserves natural appearance after mastectomy - Brief Article

AORN Journal,  Jan, 2003  

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A new procedure called the nipple-sparing mastectomy can help women who undergo mastectomies and breast reconstruction more closely preserve the natural appearance of their bodies, according to a Nov 6, 2002, news release from The Cleveland Clinic. This alternative can provide considerable cosmetic and psychological benefits to patients with breast cancer.

During the procedure, the skin, nipple, and areola are left in place while the cancerous breast tissue is removed through tiny incisions. Tissue underlying the nipple and areola is tested for cancer cells. If the tissue is found to be cancer-free, the nipple can be preserved. When the mastectomy is completed, a cosmetic surgeon performs immediate breast reconstruction.

Nipple-sparing mastectomy cannot be performed on patients who have cancer cells close to the nipple. The procedure also does not preserve the nipple's functionality or sensitivity. The length of the procedure and recovery period varies depending on the type of reconstruction the patient undergoes.

Treatment Helps Breast Cancer Patients Keep Natural Appearance (news release, Cleveland: The Cleveland Clinic, Nov 6, 2002).

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