I didn't realize how much it would effect me positively. The expander to implant move was a huge step to becoming more normal. The nipples was a huge step too. To be able to look at myself changing clothes and NOT think about the mastectomy was huge. I had pigmentation done in March, four months after nipples and a touch up eight months later in December. I know for me, it was definitely the right decision. I am in my mid fifties and no one sees the result but me and occasionally my husband of 25+ years, so I can say the work was completely for me. I know not everyone feels this way, but I do.

Hi I had nipple reconstruction 10 months ago the op was quick and painless .im really pleased with the outcome although it is constantly erect it doesn't show through lightly padded bras and i don't see it as a problem. I also wore a foam donut in my bra for protection initially. I went on to have my tattoo last November again it was pain free a little darker than the other side initially but it has faded slightly now and looks great. All in all I'm glad I've had both procedures done. Good Luck.

I did nipple reconstruction in October. There was no pain whatsoever since I still don't have feeling, so I never even ended up taking an Advil. Procedure was quick, and I could have gone back to work the next day, although I took a few days off.

A few things to consider:

1) Initially my nipples were HUGE. The best way to describe them is for those who pumped when breast feeding their kids - my nipples looked like they did after 20 minutes of pumping. Very elongated. Now that I'm a few months down the road they've flattened out a bit.
2) I had to wear protectors for a month. These were just make up sponges with a hole cut in the center. Not uncomfortable but it does look super weird under your clothes. Lots of patterned blouses for me during that period.
3) You will always look like it's cold. even if you're wearing a sports bra. It's not a big deal, but it is something to consider. A girlfriend had hers done about 4 years ago and they've now flattened out to the point that they don't look crazy.

I'm also going in for tattoos in a few weeks, and I'm excited to finally be done with the whole thing. Good luck!

I had nipple reconstruction and love it!! They look like real nipples and the aereola is tattooed on. I did not have any complications and the surgery was easy. I have a wonderful plastic surgeon!!

I also considered nipple reconstruction but have heard many concerns about complications. I decided I didn't want to go through another surgery or have my head lights permanently on. So my decision is to get 3d tattoos by an artist in Jacksonville on January 27. My plastic surgeon wanted me to get nipple reconstruction, however, I cannot talk myself into it. I will let you all know how they come out. The cost is about $1k so hopefully they will be a work of art!