Reconstruction of the breast after mastectomy.

We have described our techniques for reconstruction of the breast after a simple mastectomy, a modified radical mastectomy, and a radical mastectomy. Inadequate skin cover must be relieved, preferably by transposition of a thoracoepigastric flap. Not only must a mound be created, but also a nipple-areola complex. The areola can be constructed by nipple-sharing techniques from the opposite breast or by the use of the labia minora and/or the labia majora. However, we advise preservation and banking of the nipple-areola (or areola) by the ablative surgeon, when possible. The remaining breast usually requires some modification to match the reconstructed one.