Background Nipple reconstruction following breast mound reconstruction is the final step in
breast reconstruction. Although nipple reconstruction is a simple surgery, the psychological
aspects of nipple reconstruction are thought to be important. Nipple projection is
a key factor in determining patient satisfaction with the surgery. In the present
study, the Hammond flap technique was introduced for nipple reconstruction.
Methods Twenty-six patients who had undergone breast reconstruction from February 2008 to
March 2012 were enrolled in this prospective study. All patients were evaluated based
on preoperative photos, and their nipple diameters and heights were measured. Postoperative
evaluation was conducted 3, 6, 9, and 12 months following nipple reconstruction. A
questionnaire on patient satisfaction with the nipple reconstruction was administered
12 months after nipple reconstruction. Moreover, the same plastic surgeon scored nipple
projection and overall cosmetic result of the new nipple.
Results The mean projection was 4.4 mm (range, 3-6 mm), and it well matched the contralateral
nipple. Twelve months following nipple reconstruction, the mean reduction rate in
the nipple projection was 43.6%. Patients were satisfied or very satisfied with the
nipple projection and the overall cosmetic result in 80.7% cases.
Conclusions In the present study, compared with other techniques, the use of the Hammond flap
technique in nipple reconstruction showed competitive results with regard to nipple
projection and patient satisfaction.
Keywords
Nipples - Surgery - Plastic - Mammaplasty
