Nipple Reduction
The size and shape of the nipple of the breast does not usually cause any health concerns. However, it can be a source of distress for some individuals. In some women, nipple hypertrophy (overgrowth) occurs during pregnancy or breastfeeding, leaving them with prominent nipples that are visible even through a bra. In men, puffy nipples can lead to self consciousness when going shirtless. Sometimes, trauma or injury to the breasts can lead to changes in the shape and size of the nipples. A nipple reduction surgery can help improve the appearance of the nipples. Continue reading to learn more about nipple reductions and how surgeons shape nipples.
What is nipple reduction?
Surgeons perform a nipple reduction surgery to alter the shape and size of the nipple. During the surgery, the focus is usually on reducing the height or projection of the nipple to make it less prominent. The nipple reduction procedure can also correct the diameter or width of the nipple.
What is areola reduction surgery?
The areola is the pigmented skin surrounding the nipple. Areolas can vary greatly in size, shape, and color from person to person. If someone is unhappy with the appearance of their areolae, specifically with the areola size, an areola reduction surgery can be done to reduce the diameter.
Combined surgeries
A nipple areola reduction can be combined with breast enhancement procedures like a breast lift or breast augmentation. A nipple reduction procedure is also sometimes performed with a breast reduction surgery in women with excessively large breasts. If you have any questions about what types of procedures can be performed at the same time as a nipple reduction, you can ask your aesthetic surgeon during your initial appointment or consultation.
Who is a good candidate for nipple reduction plastic surgery?
People desiring improved cosmetic appearance
Anyone who is unhappy or self conscious about the appearance of their nipples and areolae is a candidate for these types of procedures. Women often find that their nipples become prominent or the areolas become stretched after pregnancy and breast feeding, leading to poor self confidence. Nipple areola reduction can help improve the appearance of the nipples and areolae and restore self confidence in such individuals.
Patients with asymmetry
Sometimes, the nipple and/or areola on one side does not match the other side. A plastic surgeon can help restore the balance and make the appearance of the nipples and areolae more symmetrical in such patients.
Can I make my nipples smaller without surgery?
In men, puffy nipples are fairly common. This can be the result of excess fat, steroid use, or low testosterone levels. Some men with gynecomastia (male breasts) have prominent nipples. It may be possible for men to make their nipples smaller or less puffy with diet and exercise. Strengthening the chest muscles and reducing body fat can help achieve less prominent male nipples. In women, however, plastic surgery is usually necessary to reduce the size of the nipples.
Procedure details
Nipple reduction surgery is usually done under local anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision according to the preoperative planning. They then dissect and remove excess skin from the nipple. Sutures are used to tighten the nipple and reduce its height. Skin around the nipple is removed to reduce its width. The technique can vary depending on the type of correction required. A bandage is then placed over the nipple to protect it while it heals after the surgery.
How long does it take to recover from nipple reduction surgery?
Most patients recover from nipple reduction in about 2 weeks. The most common side effects of the surgery are swelling and changes in nipple sensation, which usually resolve in the days to weeks following the procedure. If you have any post-surgical discomfort, pain medication can help in the first few days after the surgery.
You can expect to return to work and normal activities after 1-2 days. However, your doctor will recommend avoiding exercise and sexual activity for 7-10 days. Recovery time may be longer if the nipple reduction is performed in conjunction with other breast procedures like breast augmentation or breast reduction. Your doctor will advise you about the expected recovery time during your consultation.
Nipple and areola reduction results
You will see the results of your nipple reduction immediately after the surgery. The results are permanent but may be affected by future pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is worth noting that in some women, surgery on the nipple can affect the ability to breastfeed. For this reason, nipple reduction is not usually recommended in women who plan pregnancies and breastfeeding in the future.
Risks and complications of nipple reduction surgery
Nipple reduction is a safe plastic surgery when performed by an experienced surgeon. However, like all procedures, it carries some risks, including those associated with anesthesia. Potential complications of the procedure include infection, persistent pain, asymmetry, loss of sensation in the nipple (either permanent or temporary), excessive sensitivity, pigment changes, visible scarring from the incisions, inability to breastfeed, and loss of nipple tissue.
How much does it cost to reduce nipple size?
Nipple reduction costs can vary, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 depending on the extent of the surgery (the amount of nipple length to be reduced). Your surgeon will give you a quote before scheduling the procedure. If your nipple reduction is an elective cosmetic procedure, it will not be covered by insurance.
Finding a provider for nipple reduction surgery
The MeTime app makes it easy to find board certified plastic surgeons in the United States and experienced cosmetic and plastic surgeons in many countries around the world. You can click and upload pictures, chat with experts, schedule a video consult, and have suggestions sent directly to you. Interested in finding out if a nipple reduction is right for you? Download the MeTime app now!