Areola-sparing mastectomy

It may be combined with immediate breast reconstruction. Preserving the areola can retain part of the breast's appearance, but sensation often changes and the remaining skin may not heal as expected.

The surgeon removes the breast gland through an incision planned around or near the areola. Tissue from beneath the preserved skin may be examined, and the final pathology report checks the removed breast and surgical margins. If cancer is found close to or within preserved tissue, another operation may be advised.

Suitability depends on where the cancer lies, whether the nipple or areola appears involved, prior treatment, breast anatomy, smoking and conditions that affect circulation or healing. A breast and reconstructive surgeon can explain whether an implant, the person's own tissue or delayed reconstruction fits the wider plan.

Before surgery, ask where the scars will sit, what will happen to the nipple opening and how the areola may change in colour, shape or sensation. Discuss the chance that preservation cannot be completed if blood flow or the operative findings are unsuitable.

After discharge, care for the incision and drains exactly as instructed. Record drain output if requested, take prescribed medicines and avoid lifting or arm movements beyond the team's limits. Attend pathology and wound appointments because later treatment decisions may depend on the surgical findings.

Call the surgical team promptly for fever, increasing redness or warmth, cloudy drainage, worsening pain, rapidly increasing swelling, a drain that suddenly stops or a preserved areola that becomes dusky, very pale, blistered or cold. Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, fainting or bleeding that soaks through the dressing and does not stop with the team's advised pressure.

Why is areola preservation suitable in my case? How will blood supply be protected? What reconstruction choices fit my treatment plan? Could the pathology findings require more surgery? Which changes in areola colour should trigger an immediate call?