Nipple transplantation.

GlebB
GlebB Member Posts: 1
edited June 2021 in Breast Reconstruction

Hey, dear friends! My name is Gleb. To make a long story short. Recently, a person appeared in my environment who had breast cancer. And I felt so helpless because there was nothing I could do to help. But then I got an idea. Can I become a nipple donor? I could help atleast 1 or 2 people, because I don't need nipples and I would gladly share them with those in need. Is there such a nipple transplant surgery? I didn't find any information on the internet. Hope you know something about this. Thank you friends!

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Comments

  • exbrnxgrl
    exbrnxgrl Member Posts: 12,424
    edited June 2021

    That is very kind and generous of you. I have been on bco for 10 years and have never heard of such a thing. That you were unable to find anything on the internet may also suggest that this is not currently a viable procedure. Reconstructed nipples? Yes, but never donor tissue from another person. That doesn't mean there isn't such a thing but if there is it must be quite rare as I've not heard mention of it. Take care.

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  • DiveCat
    DiveCat Member Posts: 968
    edited June 2021

    I have not heard of it but…


    Nipples are quite delicate in terms of blood supply. Some of us keep our nipples with surgery and they can still be touch and go for survival, as surgery is traumatic and affects blood supply to area.

    Assuming there was a donor match, this would be microsurgery to connect blood supply and dependent on the receiver having adequate blood supply to the area in first place - you would not be able to just slap the nipple on wherever and hope it lives.

    Even if that was successful - it does not mean there would be feeling. You lose a lot of things with a mastectomy: breast tissue yes, but also nerves/nerve damage. I am not sure this is a better option then nipple reconstruction as not sure there would be any more benefits to it, but potentially more risk (necrosis, rejection, etc).

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