San Francisco Plastic Surgeon Dr. Karen Horton has been named a Study Investigator for a 12-month clinical study to evaluate a new nipple reconstruction technology called the BioAesthetics® NACgraft™ Acellular Allograft. Dr. Horton is a leader in breast reconstruction surgery and is well-known for both her exceptional surgical skill as well as her tireless advocacy for breast cancer patients. She is honored to be one of only a few Plastic Surgery centers in the United States asked to be a study investigator and she is excited to take part in the development of this new technology that will significantly expand the range of nipple reconstruction options available to patients.

What is the BioAesthetics® NACgraft™ ?

NAC refers to the nipple-areolar complex, an area of the breast that often has to be removed in mastectomy surgery. Breast reconstruction, including nipple reconstruction, is an important part of the journey in overcoming breast cancer. Patients who require nipple reconstruction currently have limited options, including skin flap reconstruction, nipple sharing and reconstructive tattoos.

The NACgraft is a regenerative graft from BioAesthetics that is created from biologically-derived collagen and designed to integrate with a patient’s body. In this procedure, a nipple and areola are harvested from female organ donors. The preparation involves removing all cells and DNA, which eliminates any chance of immune system rejection. An exciting benefit of this procedure is the capacity for adaptation: when a woman has a NACgraft nipple, nerves and blood vessels can grow into the graft, which can give women natural coloring and sensation. For patients seeking a realistic nipple reconstruction option that does not utilize any lab-made or animal products, the NACgraft can be a great option.

The NACgraft will give women who have lost their nipple(s) the opportunity to have a real human nipple reconstruction with options for tailored size and shape preference. This new technology can improve self-esteem and confidence for breast reconstruction patients and is truly the latest and greatest option!

See Dr. Horton’s Interview with KRON4 News to learn more.

The BioAesthetics® NACgraft™ Study in San Francisco

Dr. Horton will conduct the San Francisco portion of the clinical study for NACgraft while another part of the study will be carried out by her colleague Dr. Scott Sullivan in New Orleans. Approximately 36 patients who receive the NACgraft for free will be evaluated to assess healing time as well as other factors including patient satisfaction, self-esteem, and nipple sensitivity.

Contact Dr. Karen Horton

Dr. Horton is dedicated to helping patients feel comfortable in their bodies and she is excited to explore new technologies that benefit her patients, particularly after facing breast cancer or other complications causing nipple loss. Contact us with questions about or to express interest in the NACgraft or breast reconstruction in general.