If your nipple has been removed during surgery, it is possible for it to be reconstructed. This can be done using the skin on your breast, or tissue from another part of your body. For example, some skin from your groin or the nipple on your other breast can be used to construct a nipple. Your reconstructed nipple will not have any feeling.
The area around your nipple can be coloured to match this area (called the areola) on your other breast. Tattooing is used to do this.
If you don’t have a nipple reconstruction you may like to use a nipple prosthesis. Nipple prostheses come in different shapes, sizes and colours, and attach directly to your reconstructed breast using a skin-friendly glue. They can be attached and removed fairly easily.
How much does breast reconstruction cost?
The financial cost to you of your breast reconstruction will depend on many things, including:
- The type of reconstruction you have
- Whether you’re a private or a public patient
- The fees charged by your surgeon and other health care professionals involved in your surgery.
If you have private health insurance, ask an advisor at your insurance company whether some or all of the costs will be covered by your insurance policy.
Talk to your surgeon about the costs involved, and how much you will have to pay.
