Method to produce better areolae and nipples on reconstructed breasts.

A method to reconstruct the breast, nipple, and areola after mastectomy is described. The importance of symmetry is emphasized. A split-skin graft is used to reconstruct both (not one) areolae; this provides almost complete symmetry in terms of size, texture, and color. Ultraviolet light is used postoperatively to hyperpigment the skin-graft areolae, and the long-term appearance has been excellent. The method is quite simple, technically.