Skin sparing nipple reconstruction with polytetrafluoroethylene implant.

Abstract

This paper describes a technique in which implanted polytetrafluoroethylene is used to reconstruct the nipple without having to perform a local flap or graft from a distant site. This procedure offers the advantage of not taking skin to reconstruct the nipple. In addition, the projection of the nipple is provided by the implanted material and is not obligated to blood supplying a local tissue flap. For these reasons, this technique offers an attractive alternative for patients who have failed past techniques or have compromised vascular supply due to radiation therapy.