After a mastectomy or breast reconstruction, nipple reconstruction can be the final step toward restoring breast aesthetics and confidence.
Nipple Reconstruction San Diego
Why Choose Dr. Gupta?
25+ Years of Surgical Expertise
With over two decades of experience as a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Gupta combines advanced fellowship training at MD Anderson and the Cleveland Clinic with refined surgical judgment, delivering consistently safe, natural, and long-lasting breast reconstruction results.
Reconstructive Precision and Artistry
Dr. Gupta’s extensive background in microsurgery and flap design allows him to restore the breast with remarkable balance, softness, and proportion. His meticulous approach transforms complex reconstructions into beautifully natural, confident outcomes.
Surgeon-Led Continuity of Care
From your first consultation to your final follow-up, Dr. Gupta performs every step himself. You’ll never be passed between providers—only guided by the surgeon who knows your anatomy, goals, and treatment plan best.
Honesty and Integrity in Every Decision
Patients trust Dr. Gupta for his transparency, realistic communication, and refusal to overpromise. He believes that trust and education form the foundation of every successful surgical outcome.
Warm, Supportive Environment
Dr. Gupta’s down-to-earth approach and dedicated team create a space where patients feel comfortable, informed, and cared for at every step—without pretense or pressure.
Naturally Beautiful Results
Dr. Gupta’s artistry lies in subtlety. He enhances your body’s natural form with refined techniques that restore harmony, leaving results that look effortless, feel authentic, and stand the test of time.
Am I Ready for Nipple Reconstruction?
You can undergo nipple reconstruction once you have completed your primary breast reconstruction and your healing has stabilized.
Additionally, you should be finished with any breast cancer treatments, such as radiation.
The Nipple Reconstruction Process
Your nipple reconstruction in San Diego will begin in our office at a private consultation with Dr. Gupta. During this meeting. Dr. Gupta will evaluate your breast shape and discuss your options for reconstruction–including local flaps, skin grafts, or tattoos. He’ll explain how each approach works with your unique anatomy and visually show your expected outcomes.
Your actual surgery will be performed under local or light anesthesia. Dr. Gupta will sculpt a new nipple using nearby tissue or grafts. He can reconstruct the areola using grafts as well, or with a 3D tattoo at a later date. The entire approach will be tailored to your anatomy and needs.
Nipple Reconstruction Frequently Asked Questions
When is the right time to have nipple reconstruction?
Dr. Gupta typically performs nipple reconstruction several months after your breast reconstruction, once the breast mound has fully healed and settled into its final position. This timing ensures that the nipple can be placed symmetrically and proportionately on the reconstructed breast for the most natural result.
Will my reconstructed nipple retain sensation?
Sensation is usually absent or dramatically reduced. However, nerve regrowth is possible over time. The primary goal of nipple reconstruction is form and symmetry.
Is tattooing always involved in nipple reconstruction
Not always, but many patients choose areola tattooing for color depth and realism, often a few months after healing.
Can nipple reconstruction be revised later?
Yes. If the shape or projection of your reconstructed nipple diminishes over time, Dr. Gupta can perform minor revisions and touchups to enhance the result.
Will my reconstructed nipples keep their projection over time?
Minor flattening is normal in the first few months following surgery. Dr. Gupta accounts for this by designing slightly more prominent nipples initially so that the final projection appears natural and symmetrical.
What is recovery like after nipple reconstruction?
Recovery is generally very mild. Most patients experience minimal soreness and return to normal activities within a few days. Dressings protect the area as it heals, and Dr. Gupta provides detailed aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing.
Can I choose tattooing alone without surgical nipple reconstruction?
Yes. Some women choose 3D tattooing alone as a non-surgical option. With advanced shading techniques, this approach can create the illusion of projection and detail without incisions, anesthesia, or downtime, making it ideal for patients who want to avoid additional surgery.
