Nipple Reconstruction Specialist
In Singapore

Find out everything you need to know about nipple reconstruction, and contact us to learn more about the procedure.

Consultant General Surgeon, Breast, Thyroid & Endocrine Surgery

Director, Consultant General Surgeon

What is Nipple Reconstruction?

Nipple reconstruction is a key component of breast reconstruction following mastectomy, often marking the final step in the surgical treatment of breast cancer. It aims to restore the appearance of the breast, contributing to the overall aesthetic result and helping many regain a sense of normalcy. If you’re considering this procedure, our experienced breast surgeons are here to provide the necessary guidance and care.

Reasons For Doing Nipple Reconstruction

Individuals opt for nipple reconstruction for various reasons. These may include:

Completing the Reconstruction Journey

Nipple reconstruction is often the final touch in breast reconstruction, enabling individuals to fully regain their pre-mastectomy body image.

Enhancing Body Confidence

Rebuilding the nipple can significantly enhance one’s body image and self-confidence, fostering emotional healing after breast cancer treatment.

Non-Invasive Options Inadequate

Temporary options such as nipple tattoos or prostheses may not meet the individual’s satisfaction, leading to a desire for a more permanent solution.

Am I Eligible For Nipple Reconstruction?

Eligibility for nipple reconstruction can be determined by several factors:

Completion of Cancer Treatments: It is typically recommended that individuals complete all cancer treatments, including radiation, before undertaking nipple reconstruction.
Good Overall Health: As with any surgery, being in good health reduces the risk of complications and promotes better healing.
Realistic Expectations: Understanding the purpose, process, and outcomes of the procedure is essential, as results vary from person to person.

The Procedure

A nipple reconstruction typically involves creating a small flap of skin on the breast mound, which is then shaped and sutured into place to form a new nipple. In some cases, a graft from another part of the body may be used. Once the newly formed nipple has healed, medical tattooing is often employed to recreate the areola, enhancing the natural look of the reconstructed breast.

Recovery Process

What To Expect Immediately Post-Surgery:

Mild discomfort and swelling are common, usually managed with prescribed pain relief. The surgical area is covered with a protective dressing.

First Few Weeks After Surgery:

The new nipple will initially appear larger than expected as some shrinkage is likely to occur. Activities that might cause trauma to the nipple are to be avoided.

6-8 Weeks After Surgery:

Medical tattooing to recreate the areola can usually be undertaken around this time, once the nipple has fully healed.

What To Expect Long Term:

Regular follow-up with your surgeon and routine breast screening remains essential.

Dr Jesse Hu

Consultant General Surgeon, Breast, Thyroid & Endocrine Surgery

Dr Jesse specialises in managing both benign and malignant breast and thyroid conditions, which also includes breast pain, breast lumps, breastfeeding problems, neck lumps, amongst others.

Her dual expertise in cancer removal and plastic surgery techniques expands the design of individualized treatments, leading to holistic patient outcomes.

Dr Jesse was part of the teaching faculties of both NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, where she teaches and mentors the next generation of medical students and trainee doctors.

Surgical training at NUS School of Medicine
FRCS (Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons) Edinburgh, UK in 2014
Completed 2 Health Manpower Development Program (HMDP) fellowships at Oxford University Hospital, UK in 2016

Dr Jesse is recognized as an authority in breast cancer and thyroid surgery and a sought-after conference speaker.

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Dr Felicia Tan Li Sher

Director, Consultant General Surgeon

Dr Felicia is actively involved in promoting breast cancer awareness. She has also been invited to give lectures and public talks on breast cancer related issues both locally and internationally.

Her clinical interest lies in treatment of breast cancer and the use of various surgical techniques to achieve the best oncologic and cosmetic outcome for her patients.

She is the pioneer of the procedure radioisotope occult lesion localisation (ROLL) in Singapore – which is used for locating non-palpable breast lesions and micro-calcifications for surgical excision.

Bachelor in Medicine and Surgery from the National University of Singapore
RCSEd (Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh)
Post-graduate training as a General Surgeon at NCC and SGH, subspecializing in breast surgery.

She is also adept with the whole range of breast surgical procedures including vacuum assisted biopsies and endoscopic (key-hole) breast surgery for breast lesions.

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