Summary: Plastic surgeon Thomas A. Pane, MD, explains in his latest blog and video that while free nipple grafts are rarely necessary in mommy makeovers for large-breasted patients, they may be required if the supporting tissue is too large, though this comes with drawbacks like loss of sensation and inability to breastfeed.
Key Takeaways:
- Dr. Thomas A. Pane explains that free nipple grafts are rarely necessary during mommy makeovers for large-breasted patients, as he focuses on preserving the nipple with the natural tissue whenever possible.
- Free nipple grafts may be required if the supporting tissue is too large, which can make breast closure difficult or unsafe, but they come with drawbacks such as loss of sensation and the inability to breastfeed.
- Dr. Pane emphasizes the importance of personalized patient assessments to ensure safe, effective procedures with minimal risk and optimal outcomes.
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Thomas A. Pane, MD, a double-board certified plastic surgeon and founder of Atlantic Coast Aesthetics in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., has released a new blog and video in his “Ask Dr. Pane” series. This installment addresses a question from a social media follower about the necessity of a free nipple graft during a mommy makeover for individuals with large breasts.
In the blog, Pane responds to the question, “I’m having a mommy makeover; I have large breasts do I need a free nipple graft?” He explains that when he performs a breast lift or reduction, the external scars typically form an inverted T shape, circling around the areola, down the breast, and along the base curve. However, the internal technique can vary.
Nipple Preservation in Breast Surgeries
Pane focuses on preserving the nipple by carrying it on a segment of tissue as it’s repositioned. “While it’s rare for me to encounter cases where the nipple needs to be completely removed as a free nipple graft, it can happen if the breasts are exceptionally large,” he says.
He explains that a free nipple graft may be necessary when the tissue segment supporting the nipple is extremely large and long, making the closure of the breast difficult or unsafe. The drawbacks of a free nipple graft include the loss of sensation and the inability to breastfeed, he says, making it a less preferable option compared to preserving the nipple with the natural tissue.
“Fortunately, in my practice, these instances are uncommon, thanks to the techniques I’ve learned and refined over time,” Pane says. “While I’ve integrated a combination of techniques into my practice, the emphasis on preserving the nipple whenever possible stems from this early training.”
Personalized Patient Assessments
Finally, Pane highlights the importance of carefully assessing each patient, considering factors like breast size, sensation, and overall health. “Ultimately, our goal is to provide safe, effective procedures with minimal risk and optimal outcomes,” he says. “We encourage anyone with questions or concerns to reach out, and we’ll be happy to address them.”
