Nipple-sparing mastectomy: Difference between revisions

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{{Short description|Surgical procedure preserving the nipple-areola complex during mastectomy}}
== Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy ==


'''Nipple-sparing mastectomy''' (NSM) is a type of [[mastectomy]] where the [[nipple-areola complex]] (NAC) is preserved while removing the underlying [[breast tissue]]. This procedure is often chosen for its aesthetic benefits and is typically followed by immediate [[breast reconstruction]].
[[File:Breast_reconstruction_14.jpg|Breast reconstruction following nipple-sparing mastectomy|thumb|right]]


==Indications==
A '''nipple-sparing mastectomy''' (NSM) is a surgical procedure for the treatment or prevention of [[breast cancer]] that involves the removal of breast tissue while preserving the [[nipple-areolar complex]] (NAC). This technique is designed to improve cosmetic outcomes and patient satisfaction by maintaining the natural appearance of the breast.
Nipple-sparing mastectomy is primarily indicated for patients with [[breast cancer]] or those at high risk of developing breast cancer, such as individuals with [[BRCA1]] or [[BRCA2]] mutations. It is suitable for patients with small tumors located away from the nipple and those without [[invasive cancer]] involving the skin or nipple.


==Procedure==
== Indications ==
The procedure involves making an incision in the breast, often in the inframammary fold or around the areola, to access and remove the breast tissue while preserving the skin envelope and the NAC. The surgeon carefully dissects the tissue beneath the nipple to ensure no cancerous cells remain.


[[File:Incision_of_breast.jpg|Incision of breast|thumb|left]]
Nipple-sparing mastectomy is typically indicated for patients with early-stage breast cancer or those at high risk of developing breast cancer, such as individuals with [[BRCA1]] or [[BRCA2]] mutations. It is also considered for patients undergoing [[prophylactic mastectomy]] to reduce cancer risk. The suitability of NSM depends on factors such as tumor size, location, and the absence of cancerous involvement of the nipple.


==Benefits==
== Surgical Technique ==
The primary benefit of NSM is the preservation of the nipple, which can lead to improved cosmetic outcomes and patient satisfaction. By maintaining the natural appearance of the breast, patients often experience better psychological and emotional recovery.


==Risks and Complications==
The procedure involves making an incision in the breast, often in a location that minimizes visible scarring, such as along the inframammary fold or around the areola. The breast tissue is carefully removed while preserving the skin envelope and the NAC. Surgeons may use intraoperative techniques to assess the viability of the nipple and ensure that cancerous cells are not present in the tissue beneath the nipple.
While NSM offers aesthetic advantages, it carries risks such as [[nipple necrosis]], where the blood supply to the nipple is compromised, leading to tissue death. Other risks include infection, bleeding, and the potential for residual cancerous tissue.


==Reconstruction==
[[File:Incision_of_breast.jpg|Incision of breast during nipple-sparing mastectomy|thumb|left]]
Following NSM, immediate breast reconstruction is typically performed using either [[autologous tissue]] or [[breast implants]]. The choice of reconstruction method depends on patient preference, body type, and medical history.


[[File:Breast_reconstruction_14.jpg|Breast reconstruction|thumb|right]]
== Reconstruction Options ==


==Outcomes==
Following the removal of breast tissue, immediate [[breast reconstruction]] is often performed. Options for reconstruction include the use of [[breast implants]] or [[autologous tissue reconstruction]], such as the [[DIEP flap]] or [[TRAM flap]]. The choice of reconstruction method depends on patient preference, body type, and medical considerations.
Studies have shown that NSM can be oncologically safe for selected patients, with recurrence rates comparable to other types of mastectomy. Long-term outcomes depend on factors such as tumor size, location, and the presence of [[lymph node]] involvement.
 
== Benefits and Risks ==
 
The primary benefit of nipple-sparing mastectomy is the preservation of the nipple, which can lead to improved aesthetic outcomes and higher patient satisfaction. However, there are risks associated with the procedure, including the potential for nipple necrosis, loss of sensation, and the possibility of residual cancerous tissue in the preserved NAC.
 
== Outcomes ==
 
Studies have shown that NSM can be oncologically safe for selected patients, with recurrence rates comparable to those of traditional mastectomy. Patient satisfaction is generally high, particularly regarding the cosmetic results and the psychological benefits of preserving the nipple.
 
== Related Pages ==


==Related pages==
* [[Mastectomy]]
* [[Mastectomy]]
* [[Breast reconstruction]]
* [[Breast reconstruction]]
* [[Breast cancer]]
* [[Breast cancer]]
* [[BRCA mutation]]
* [[Prophylactic mastectomy]]
 
{{Breast surgery}}


[[Category:Breast surgery]]
[[Category:Breast surgery]]
[[Category:Oncology]]
[[Category:Oncology]]
[[Category:Breast cancer treatment]]

Latest revision as of 20:52, 5 March 2025

Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy[edit]

Breast reconstruction following nipple-sparing mastectomy

A nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) is a surgical procedure for the treatment or prevention of breast cancer that involves the removal of breast tissue while preserving the nipple-areolar complex (NAC). This technique is designed to improve cosmetic outcomes and patient satisfaction by maintaining the natural appearance of the breast.

Indications[edit]

Nipple-sparing mastectomy is typically indicated for patients with early-stage breast cancer or those at high risk of developing breast cancer, such as individuals with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations. It is also considered for patients undergoing prophylactic mastectomy to reduce cancer risk. The suitability of NSM depends on factors such as tumor size, location, and the absence of cancerous involvement of the nipple.

Surgical Technique[edit]

The procedure involves making an incision in the breast, often in a location that minimizes visible scarring, such as along the inframammary fold or around the areola. The breast tissue is carefully removed while preserving the skin envelope and the NAC. Surgeons may use intraoperative techniques to assess the viability of the nipple and ensure that cancerous cells are not present in the tissue beneath the nipple.

Incision of breast during nipple-sparing mastectomy

Reconstruction Options[edit]

Following the removal of breast tissue, immediate breast reconstruction is often performed. Options for reconstruction include the use of breast implants or autologous tissue reconstruction, such as the DIEP flap or TRAM flap. The choice of reconstruction method depends on patient preference, body type, and medical considerations.

Benefits and Risks[edit]

The primary benefit of nipple-sparing mastectomy is the preservation of the nipple, which can lead to improved aesthetic outcomes and higher patient satisfaction. However, there are risks associated with the procedure, including the potential for nipple necrosis, loss of sensation, and the possibility of residual cancerous tissue in the preserved NAC.

Outcomes[edit]

Studies have shown that NSM can be oncologically safe for selected patients, with recurrence rates comparable to those of traditional mastectomy. Patient satisfaction is generally high, particularly regarding the cosmetic results and the psychological benefits of preserving the nipple.

Related Pages[edit]

Template:Breast surgery