MED0001602957. This website contains imagery that is only suitable for audiences 18+. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.
MED0001602957. This website contains imagery that is only suitable for audiences 18+. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.
Nipple and areola surgery refers to procedures that may adjust the size, shape, position, or projection of the nipple and/or areola. It may be considered for concerns such as enlarged areolae, prominent or elongated nipples, asymmetry, or inverted nipples. Surgical planning is individualised. A consultation is required to assess suitability and to discuss expected changes and limitations, scarring, risks, recovery, and alternatives.
Nipple areola correction involves modifying the nipple and/or the pigmented skin around it (the areola). Options may include:
– Nipple reduction (to adjust projection and/or diameter)
– Areola reduction (to reduce areolar diameter)
– Inverted nipple correction (to release tethering tissue, where appropriate)
– Symmetry adjustment (when one side differs from the other)
These procedures may be performed on their own or combined with other breast surgery (such as lift, reduction, augmentation, or reconstruction), depending on the clinical plan. All surgery results in scars, and scar appearance varies between individuals.
The goals of nipple and areola correction depend on the concern being treated and the agreed surgical plan. Depending on individual circumstances, potential physical outcomes may include:
– Change in nipple projection: for patients with nipple inversion or prominent nipples (results vary).
– Change in nipple and/or areola size: size and shape can be adjusted where clinically appropriate.
– Change in symmetry: differences between sides may be reduced; complete symmetry cannot be guaranteed.
– Comfort considerations: some people report improved comfort with certain garments where prominent projection was a concern; this varies.
If inverted nipple correction is performed, preservation of milk ducts may be considered where possible, however breastfeeding ability cannot be guaranteed.
The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.
A suitable candidate is generally a physically healthy adult seeking assessment for nipple/areola concerns such as inversion, asymmetry, prominent nipple projection, or enlarged areolae. Candidates should have realistic expectations about variability in results, sensation changes, scarring, and recovery. A consultation is required to confirm suitability and to determine the most appropriate approach.
You May Be a Good Candidate If
You may be a good candidate for nipple areola correction if you:
– Are in good overall physical health
– Are concerned about nipple or areola size, shape, projection, or symmetry
– Have inverted or retracted nipples and would like an assessment of treatment options
– Understand that scarring is expected and results vary
– Do not smoke or are willing to stop nicotine use for a specified period before and after surgery (as directed)
– Are at a stable weight (where relevant to surgical planning)
Nipple areola correction may not be suitable for individuals who:
– Have an active infection or untreated skin condition affecting the breast area
– Have uncontrolled medical conditions that increase surgical risk
– Are currently pregnant or breastfeeding (timing may be deferred depending on clinical advice)
– Are unable to stop nicotine use where clinically required
– Have a history of problematic scarring or wound healing that has not been discussed with the treating clinician
– Have unrealistic expectations regarding outcomes, scarring, or symmetry
Technique selection depends on the concern being treated, anatomy, and the agreed surgical plan.
For Nipple Reduction:
Techniques may involve removing a portion of nipple tissue and reshaping the remaining tissue to reduce projection and/or diameter. Changes in sensation are possible and vary between individuals.
For Areola Reduction:
This typically involves an incision around the areolar edge with removal of a ring of tissue, then closure to reduce areolar diameter. Scarring occurs around the areola and varies in visibility.
For Inverted Nipple Correction:
A small incision may be used to release tethering tissue that pulls the nipple inward. Some techniques aim to preserve ducts where possible, but breastfeeding and long-term projection outcomes vary, and recurrence of inversion can occur.
Your surgeon will explain the recommended approach, incision placement, scarring expectations, and trade-offs during consultation.
Anesthesia
Nipple/areola procedures are often performed under local anaesthesia, sometimes with sedation. General anaesthesia may be used if the correction is combined with other procedures or based on patient and facility considerations. The anaesthesia plan will be discussed during consultation.
Preparation typically includes:
– Medical review: history, medications and supplements, and relevant investigations (where required).
– Medication guidance: you may be asked to stop certain medications/supplements that can increase bleeding risk (where clinically appropriate).
– Nicotine cessation: nicotine can impair healing; you may be asked to stop smoking/vaping/nicotine products for a specified period before and after surgery.
– Fasting instructions: follow the facility’s requirements if sedation or general anaesthesia is planned.
– Support planning: arrange transport and post-operative support depending on the type of anaesthesia used.
Return to Work: Timing varies depending on comfort, the extent of the procedure, and your role.
Return to Exercise: Light activity may be resumed as advised. Strenuous exercise and activities that place pressure on the chest are typically restricted for a period determined by your surgeon.
Appearance over time: Swelling resolves gradually and scar maturation takes months. There is no single timeline that applies to everyone.
A breast augmentation is a very customized procedure, and selecting an experienced surgeon is paramount. Dr. Lajevardi focuses on patient safety, naturally appearing results, and transparency throughout the process.
