Nipple Correction
Nipple correction surgery is a very common cosmetic procedure that can be used for the correction of inverted nipples and the reduction of the nipple or areola, the darker area surrounding the nipple. These treatments are available to both men and women.
What are the benefits?
The inverted nipple correction procedure is ideal for both men and women resulting in more aesthetically pleasing breasts.
The procedure
Inverted Nipple: An incision is made at the base of the nipple releasing and dividing the milk ducts which are the cause of the tethering pulling your nipple inwards. An internal stitch is used to hold the base of the nipple together allowing your nipple to protrude leaving you with a more natural appearance.
Nipple Reduction: Surgery involves removing the excess part of the nipple which is done by making several cuts into the nipple. After the excess skin within the nipple has been removed the nipple is then shaped to the size that you will have previously discussed with your surgeon.
Nipple Reconstruction: Nipple reconstruction is a procedure for women who have had a mastectomy (breast removal) following breast cancer with the loss of the nipple and/or the areola. Occasionally nipple reconstruction is done at the same time as breast reconstruction, but it is usually done some time afterwards. This lets the breast settle into its final shape so that the surgeon can position the nipple accurately, in line with your other nipple. The time between operations for breast and nipple reconstruction may vary, but it’s usually about 4-6 months.
Your nipple shape may be reconstructed using a:
nipple flap – the surgeon folds skin on your new breast into a nipple shape
nipple sharing graft – the surgeon takes part of the nipple from your natural breast and places it on your new breast.
A reconstructed nipple doesn’t react to temperature changes or touch – or have the same sensation as a natural nipple.
Nipple/ Areola Tattooing (micro-pigmentation): Once you have a new nipple, you can have the nipple and surrounding area tattooed to match the colour of the nipple and areola (darker area around the nipple) of your natural breast.
A tattooing session usually takes 60 minutes. The procedure may need to be done more than once to give the best result. The tattoo usually lasts approximately 18 months to two years. Sometimes the opposite nipple is also tattooed to ensure a good match.
Tattooing isn’t usually painful but the area may feel tender (like a graze) for a few days afterwards.
How long does the operation take?
Can take approximately 30mins – 1 depending on the extent of the surgery performed
How long do I stay in hospital?
This can be performed under a local or general anaesthetic on either an Outpatient or Day-case basis.
What can I expect afterwards?
Following your surgery there will be temporary swelling, bruising, and tenderness which will resolve in approximately 7 -10 days. Pain and discomfort is minimal and well controlled with oral pain relief. You should be able return to work after a few days.
What are the long term results?
Once corrected, it is highly unlikely that you should have any further problems with your nipple.
What are the risks?
Following inverted nipple correction you may be unable to breastfeed due to the fact that the milk ducts that carry milk have been divided, which means milk will be unable to travel up the milk ducts. Having inverted nipples does not necessarily mean you will have difficulty breastfeeding therefore if you are considering a family and would like to breastfeed then you should give this serious consideration before undergoing surgery.
Other risks such as infection can occur around the incision site, but this usually subsides over a period of about 2 weeks.
The consultation
It is important for you to examine the reasons for undergoing a cosmetic surgery procedure as it is unlikely to resolve any life issues you may have. Having surgery for someone else is not the basis from which to make a decision. Cosmetic surgery will certainly boost your self esteem but you do need to be realistic about your expectations.
Our aim is to fully understand your concerns and desires before agreeing on a treatment plan which is in your best interest. At consultation your consultant surgeon will explain your treatment fully including any potential risks and complications. Your consultation surgeon will advise you of the best strategy to address all of your needs and will also explain all aspects of your post-operative care.
If you would like to speak to one of our consultant surgeons, Mr Alan Park or Mr Sudip Ghosh, please do not hesitate to telephone or fill out our online form.