Silicone nipple shields: An innovative postoperative dressing technique after nipple reconstruction

Oren Weissman, Ariel Tessone, Alon Liran, Demetris Stavrou, Nimrod Farber, Arie Orenstein, Josef Haik, Eyal Winkler

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Background: The newly reconstructed nipple is extremely sensitive to mechanical pressure and shearing forces, which can cause flap necrosis and sloughing of the skin, eventually promoting infection. Current available dressing solutions are cumbersome, inefficient, displeasing, or otherwise not readily obtainable. Methods: In this study, 10 patients with newly reconstructed nipples were instructed to use breastfeeding nipple shields as the sole means of nipple dressing after the reconstruction procedure. Results: No complications were observed overall. Patients reported full adherence to the postoperative dressing regimen as well as ease of use, availability, low costs, and pleasing aesthetic appearance under garments. Discussion: Silicone breastfeeding nipple shields offer an efficient, affable, cheap, widely available, and aesthetically pleasing form of postoperative dressing for reconstructed nipples. Their use may enhance patient compliance with the dressing regimen and lower the postoperative complication rate.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)48-51
Number of pages4
JournalAesthetic Plastic Surgery
Volume34
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Feb 2010

Keywords

  • Nipple reconstruction
  • Postoperative dressing
  • Silicone

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