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Does Breast Reconstruction Include a Nipple?

Sarah Jenkins • • 7 min read
Does Breast Reconstruction Include a Nipple?

Nipple and areola reconstruction
The nipple and areola are usually the final phase of breast reconstruction. This is a separate surgery done to make the reconstructed breast look more like the original breast.

Why can't you keep your nipples after a mastectomy?

Saving Nipples During Mastectomy Does Not Increase Risk of Cancer Recurrence. Leaving nipples intact during mastectomy can cosmetically improve breast reconstruction results without raising the risk of cancer recurrence, a study has shown.

Does insurance cover nipple reconstruction?

In the United States, your health insurance plan should cover nipple reconstruction if it also covers breast reconstruction. The Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998 requires all group health plans and health insurance companies (including HMOs) that pay for mastectomy to also cover reconstructive procedures.

Sarah Jenkins
Author

Sarah Jenkins

Sarah Jenkins is a veteran tech journalist with over 12 years of experience covering artificial intelligence, mobile innovations, and digital ethics. Her insights have appeared in leading technology publications worldwide.