Protectors to Promote Nipple Healing After Mastectomy Breast Reconstruction

Prevents Scar Tissue Formation and Loss of Nipple Projection

This nipple protector can protect reconstructed nipples immediately after mastectomy breast reconstruction. Breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer diagnosed in women in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control. In 2016, almost 110,000 American women had breast reconstructions following breast mastectomy, with nipple reconstruction as an optional, last step of the reconstruction. In one of the most common methods of nipple reconstruction, surgeons use local skin flaps of the mastectomy to reconstruct the new nipple. Since the new nipple is made from skin, nipple projection after surgery is prone to destruction by external pressure (such as from clothing), resulting in skin flap necrosis and infection. Additionally, scar tissues may begin forming on the reconstructed nipples over the first 4-6 weeks postoperatively.

Researchers at the University of Florida have developed and designed a nipple protector that can be used to protect reconstructed nipples immediately postoperatively. The nipple protector protects reconstructed nipple skin flaps from mechanical forces and pressure, local trauma, and infection. Unlike others available on the market, this nipple protector softly adheres to the skin and allows easy access to the reconstructed nipples for antibiotic ointment application.

Application

Protects reconstructed nipples post-mastectomy

Advantages

• Protects nipple skin flaps from injurious pressure, reducing scar tissue formation
• Annular ridge and central aperture allow direct access to the nipple, facilitating antibiotic ointment application and wound healing monitoring
• Designed to be compact and seamless underneath clothing, promoting patient comfort and confidence
• Created with elastomeric polymers for flexibility, adherence, and water tolerance, ensuring safe contact with skin
• Includes a single-use easy to apply adhesive, increasing patient utilization and adherence to post-surgery instructions

Technology

Nipple reconstruction is the last step of breast reconstruction following mastectomies resulting from breast cancer treatment. Researchers at the University of Florida have designed a device to protect the reconstructed nipple for the first 4-6 weeks after breast/nipple reconstruction surgery. This device will be made with elastomeric polymers such as medical-grade silicone and includes a circular base portion, an annular ridge, and a central aperture. An adhesive layer is located at the bottom of the circular base portion to promote soft but effective adherence to the area surrounding the reconstructed nipple. A distinguishing feature of this device is the central aperture which accommodates direct nipple access for the application of antibiotic ointments as well as for monitoring the nipple healing process.