Do You Still Have Nipples After A Mastectomy?
Wondering if you still have nipples after a mastectomy? Learn what happens during the procedure, nipple-sparing options, and what to expect post-surgery.
Written by Dr.Sonia Bhatt
Last updated on 12th Jul, 2025
Introduction
If you or a loved one is considering or has undergone a mastectomy (surgical removal of one or both breasts), you may have questions about what happens to the nipples. It’s a common concern, and understanding your options can help you feel more prepared and confident in your journey.
What Happens to Nipples During a Mastectomy?
Whether nipples are removed or preserved depends on the type of mastectomy and your personal health situation. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Total (Simple) Mastectomy
The entire breast tissue, including the nipple and areola, is removed.
This is often done when cancer is present or as a preventive measure for high-risk patients.
2. Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy
Only the breast tissue is removed, while the nipple and areola are preserved.
This option is possible if there’s no cancer near the nipple area.
It helps maintain a more natural appearance, especially if reconstruction is planned.
3. Skin-Sparing Mastectomy
Most of the breast skin is preserved (except the nipple and areola).
This is often done when immediate breast reconstruction is planned.
4. Areola-Sparing Mastectomy
The nipple is removed, but the darker skin around it (areola) is kept.
This is less common but may be an option in certain cases.
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Why Might Nipples Need to Be Removed?
The nipples might need to be removed because of the following:
Cancer Risk: If cancer is found near the nipple, removing it reduces the risk of recurrence.
Preventive Measure: In high-risk cases (like BRCA gene mutations), removing the nipple ensures no breast tissue is left behind.
Surgical Necessity: Sometimes, preserving the nipple isn’t possible due to blood supply issues.
Can Nipples Be Reconstructed?
Yes, if your nipples are removed, you have options to restore their appearance:
1. Surgical Nipple Reconstruction
A plastic surgeon creates a new nipple using skin from the reconstructed breast.
Done after breast reconstruction has healed.
The areola can be tattooed later for a natural look.
2. 3D Nipple Tattooing
A medical tattoo artist shades the area to look like a nipple and areola.
No surgery is needed. Just a tattooing procedure.
3. Prosthetic Nipples
Silicone or stick-on nipples can be used temporarily.
These are removable and customisable.
How Does Losing Nipples Affect Sensation?
If nipples are removed, you’ll lose sensation in that area. Nipple-sparing mastectomies may preserve some feeling, but it varies from person to person.
Tips for Emotional and Physical Recovery
Losing a nipple (or both) can be emotionally challenging. Here’s how to cope:
1. Talk to a Counsellor or Support Group: Many women find comfort in sharing their experiences with others who’ve gone through similar journeys.
2. Consider Reconstruction Options: If appearance is important to you, discuss reconstruction with your surgeon.
3. Wear Comfortable Clothing:
Soft bras or camisoles can help during healing.
Prosthetic nipples or breast forms can restore symmetry under clothes.
4. Be Patient with Healing: Recovery takes time. Allow your body to adjust.
When to Consult a Doctor?
If you’re considering a mastectomy or have concerns about nipple preservation, talk to your surgeon. They can guide you based on your health needs.
Conclusion
Whether you keep your nipples or choose reconstruction, what matters most is your health and comfort. Every woman’s journey is unique, and there’s no right or wrong choice—only what feels best for you.
Consult Top Breast Surgeon
Consult Top Specialists for Personalised Tips
Dr. Ashwini R K
Breast Surgeon
5 Years • MBBS, MS(General Surgery), FMAS, Fellowship in Breast Cancer
Bengaluru
Apollo Cancer Centres, Electronic City, Bengaluru
Dr Nita S. Nair
Breast Surgeon
11 Years • "MBBS, MS (General Surgery), MCh (Surgical Oncology) MRCS (Ed.) "
Mumbai
Apollo Hospitals CBD Belapur, Mumbai
(75+ Patients)
Dr Shaikat Gupta Director Surgical Onco
Surgical Oncologist
34 Years • MBBS (University Gold Medalist), MS, FRCSEd
Kolkata
Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals , Kolkata, Kolkata
(225+ Patients)
Dr. Anup Dhir
Plastic Surgeon
38 Years • MBBS, MS, MCh (Plastic & Reconstructive Surg.), FECSM
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr. Asha Reddy
Breast Surgeon
5 Years • MBBS, MS (General Surgeon), Masters Oncoplastic Breast surgery, (UK) Fellowship in Breast Oncology (Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai ), Fellow of the European Board of Surgery (FEBS), Fellow of American College of Surgeons (FACS )
Chennai
Apollo Hospitals Cancer Centre Nandanam, Chennai
(100+ Patients)
Consult Top Breast Surgeon
Dr. Ashwini R K
Breast Surgeon
5 Years • MBBS, MS(General Surgery), FMAS, Fellowship in Breast Cancer
Bengaluru
Apollo Cancer Centres, Electronic City, Bengaluru
Dr Nita S. Nair
Breast Surgeon
11 Years • "MBBS, MS (General Surgery), MCh (Surgical Oncology) MRCS (Ed.) "
Mumbai
Apollo Hospitals CBD Belapur, Mumbai
(75+ Patients)
Dr Shaikat Gupta Director Surgical Onco
Surgical Oncologist
34 Years • MBBS (University Gold Medalist), MS, FRCSEd
Kolkata
Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals , Kolkata, Kolkata
(225+ Patients)
Dr. Anup Dhir
Plastic Surgeon
38 Years • MBBS, MS, MCh (Plastic & Reconstructive Surg.), FECSM
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr. Asha Reddy
Breast Surgeon
5 Years • MBBS, MS (General Surgeon), Masters Oncoplastic Breast surgery, (UK) Fellowship in Breast Oncology (Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai ), Fellow of the European Board of Surgery (FEBS), Fellow of American College of Surgeons (FACS )
Chennai
Apollo Hospitals Cancer Centre Nandanam, Chennai
(100+ Patients)
