Management of the Ischemic Nipple-Areola Complex After Breast Reduction

Clin Plast Surg. 2016 Apr;43(2):403-14. doi: 10.1016/j.cps.2015.12.011. Epub 2016 Feb 3.

Abstract

Early and accurate diagnosis and treatment of nipple-areolar complex (NAC) ischemia and necrosis are fundamental to the practice of breast surgery. Knowledge of breast anatomy, risk factors, and proper technique is not sufficient for avoiding this complication in all cases. Management of this situation is dynamic; it depends on the time of detection, and knowledge of different surgical maneuvers for NAC reperfusion. Management of this complication will continue to improve with technologic advances and research.

Keywords: Areolar; Ischemia; Management; Necrosis; Nipple.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Breast Implants
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Ischemia / etiology*
  • Ischemia / pathology
  • Ischemia / surgery*
  • Mammaplasty / adverse effects*
  • Mammaplasty / methods
  • Nipples / blood supply*
  • Nipples / surgery
  • Risk Factors