Cosmetic surgery to alter the shape, size or appearance of the nipple

Procedure Summary

Breast enlargement and reduction operations have been gaining popularity since the early 20th century. Medical advances have led to cosmetic surgery with very few incisions, minimising the number and the visibility of the scars caused by the procedure. Recently, the corresponding surgery on the nipple has become a speciality in its own right, with many procedures carried out on the nipple alone and not simply as part of an overall breast procedure.

Are you a candidate for nipple reshaping surgery?

Nipple reconstruction offers a life-changing procedure to women who have had a mastectomy (breast removal) with the loss of the nipple and/or the areola. In addition, a vast number of women suffer with nipple and areola abnormalities that, as well as occasionally affecting the function and sensation of their nipples, can make them feel self conscious about their breasts. All of these women can benefit from the following procedures:

• Nipple enlargement is commonly performed to accompany a breast enlargement in order to match the size and shape of the nipple and areola with the increased breast size.
• Nipple reduction addresses long or oversized nipples in men and women. Many women request a nipple reduction because breast feeding has distorted the shape and size of their nipples, making them longer and drooping downwards.
• Inverted nipple correction is for women whose nipples lie flat against the breast or seem to pull inwards from the breast surface. Please be aware that inverted nipples will not necessarily prevent you breastfeeding, so consult your doctor before deciding to proceed with surgery.

There are few medical reasons why anyone can’t undergo nipple reshaping surgery. Your individual suitability for surgery will be discussed during your initial consultation with the plastic surgeon. As one woman in here 30s explained, “Breast feeding had left my nipples looking so extended I felt embarrassed to be seen in public places like changing rooms. After discussing it with my doctor, I underwent nipple reshaping surgery to regain the nipples I had before breastfeeding. It’s amazing, this minor procedure has dramatically boosted my self-confidence.”

Undergoing nipple reshaping surgery

All nipple reshaping operations take place under a local anaesthetic often along with a sedative to make you feel drowsy. The procedure will typically last up to one hour.

Nipple enlargement is usually accomplished by means of a tissue graft and fat transfer from another part of the body into the nipple. For nipple reduction, a cut is made around the edge of the areola (the brownish area around the nipple) and another cut made around the proposed outer edge, within the existing areola. The surplus skin in-between the two circular cuts is removed and the skin sewn together. Inverted nipple correction involves an incision being made around the lower half of the nipple and the tissue behind it being released, allowing the nipple to stick out as desired. An alternative approach leaves the tissue attached but slightly repositions the nipple so that it protrudes.

Your nipples will feel sore and slightly swollen for several days following the procedure. There will be permanent scars, though they will soon fade and be virtually invisible as they are hidden on the border of the nipple and the areola.

You should be able to return to work and continue most normal activities, including mild exercise, within a week of surgery. As with all cosmetic surgery, there is some degree of risk associated with it, although this is very rare. Following surgery there is the possibility of some asymmetry of the nipples or, at worst, a permanent loss of feeling in and around the nipple. One woman described her post-operative experience as, “Remarkably straightforward. I felt sensitive for the first week, but I followed the advice of my surgeon and I was soon feeling fine. And my nipples look great!”

Who should carry out nipple reshaping surgery?

Only fully trained and qualified surgeons should perform cosmetic surgery on the nipple. They should have gained their experience in an establishment registered with the Healthcare Commission (in the UK).

The cost of private nipple reshaping surgery is determined by the specific requirements of each individual procedure. Prices are obviously at the higher end of the spectrum when surgery is required on both breasts. As a guide, you can expect to pay something between £700 and £2,200. If cosmetic surgery to reshape your nipples is something that you are considering, you can discuss all of the issues mentioned here in greater depth during a consultation with a cosmetic surgeon.

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