Abstract: Trainee Selection and the Correlation between Cognitive and Technical Skill Evaluation

CONCLUSION: This is the largest series of patients undergoing NAC reconstruction in the current literature that we are aware of. We use a variety of techniques that may lead to a natural outcome and a greater satisfaction rate following NAC reconstruction. Our approach includes performing NAC reconstruction with local anesthetic in an office-based setting with immediate post-flap tattooing. A pre-mastectomy color evaluation of the NAC for all mastectomy patients has proven to be highly beneficial for those undergoing bilateral mastectomies. Encouraging patient participation in pre-operative NAC site markings may make patients feel more involved in their care and further enhance satisfaction rate. Selecting the type of local flap performed based on the patient’s individual scar pattern may lead to better aesthetic outcomes. These are practical modifications that can be easily implemented to augment nipple-areolar reconstructions.