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Nipple Areola Correction

Nipple and Areola Surgery (Correction, Reduction or Inversion Repair) in Sydney

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Overview

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.

Add volume to breasts

Reduce sagging

Lift and tighten

Reshape and contour

Before & After

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.

Breast Augmentation

Implant Size: 300cc – 450cc

Recovery Timeline: 1–2 weeks light

Tags: Breast Enhancement, Cosmetic Surgery

Breast Augmentation

Implant Size: 300cc – 450cc

Recovery Timeline: 1–2 weeks light

Tags: Breast Enhancement, Cosmetic Surgery

Breast Augmentation

Implant Size: 300cc – 450cc

Recovery Timeline: 1–2 weeks light

Tags: Breast Enhancement, Cosmetic Surgery

Breast Augmentation

Implant Size: 300cc – 450cc

Recovery Timeline: 1–2 weeks light

Tags: Breast Enhancement, Cosmetic Surgery

Breast Augmentation

Implant Size: 300cc – 450cc

Recovery Timeline: 1–2 weeks light

Tags: Breast Enhancement, Cosmetic Surgery

Breast Augmentation

Implant Size: 300cc – 450cc

Recovery Timeline: 1–2 weeks light

Tags: Breast Enhancement, Cosmetic Surgery

About This Procedure

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.

Your Consultation with Dr Lajevardi

Dr Sepehr Lajevardi is a highly skilled and experienced plastic surgeon, dedicated to providing exceptional results to each patient. He takes a caring approach, working with patients to create an individualised treatment plan that helps them feel confident in their outcomes. Book your appointment to receive professional care and guidance from Dr Lajevardi, and find out if breast augmentation surgery is right for you.

Key Benefits

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.

Complete Breast Augmentation Guide

Get step-by-step insights, recovery tips, and expert recommendations for your Breast. Download our free guide today.

Ideal Candidate

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)

Who Should Not Undergo This Procedure

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

Surgical Techniques & Approaches

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.

Pre-Operative Preparation

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.

Recovery Process

Timeline

Activity & Expectations

Immediately Post-Op

Dressings may be applied. Mild soreness, swelling and bruising can occur. Monitoring depends on the anaesthesia used.

First 24–48 Hours

Rest is commonly recommended. Keep the area clean and follow wound care instructions. Discomfort varies and is managed according to your clinician’s plan.

Week 1

Follow-up is typically scheduled for wound review and dressing/suture management (where applicable). Light daily activities may be possible depending on comfort.

Weeks 2–4

Swelling often reduces gradually. Activity can usually increase, but direct pressure/trauma to the area is generally avoided. Scar care may be discussed.

1–3 Months

Healing continues and scars begin to mature. Sensation changes may continue to settle over time.

6+ Months

Scar maturation continues. Final appearance varies between individuals and can continue to change over time.

Recovery Milestones

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.

Resources & Guides

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.

Patient Preparation Guide

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Procedure Walkthroughs

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Procedure Walkthroughs

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Patient Preparation Guide

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Frequently Asked Questions

Procedure & Results

How long does the Nipple Areola Correction surgery take?

Timing varies depending on the technique used and whether one or both sides are treated. Your surgeon will provide an estimate during consultation.

Will I have noticeable scars?

All surgery results in scars. Incisions are commonly placed around the areola edge and/or at the base of the nipple depending on the technique. Scar visibility varies between individuals.

How long will the results last?

Longevity varies. Ageing, pregnancy, weight changes, and natural tissue changes can affect breast appearance over time. In inverted nipple correction, recurrence can occur.

What are the risks associated with Nipple Areola Correction?

Risks include bleeding, infection, scarring, delayed wound healing, asymmetry, changes in nipple sensation (temporary or permanent), pigment changes, and the possibility of revision surgery. For inverted nipple correction, risks can include recurrence and potential impact on breastfeeding. A detailed discussion of risks and alternatives will occur during consultation.

Pain & Recovery

Is the Nipple Areola Correction procedure painful?

Discomfort varies. Many people describe mild to moderate soreness or tenderness early in recovery. Pain management guidance will be provided.

When can I shower after surgery?

This depends on dressings and incision healing. You will receive written guidance before discharge. Submerging incisions (bath/pool/ocean) is usually restricted for a period.

How long until I can return to exercise?

This varies depending on healing and the extent of the procedure. Light activity is often possible earlier, while strenuous activity and pressure to the chest are restricted until cleared by your surgeon.

Safety & Credentials

Where will the surgery be performed? Is the facility accredited?

Surgery is performed in an appropriate licensed surgical facility or hospital setting. Facility details and aftercare arrangements will be discussed during consultation.

Is the surgeon appropriately qualified?

You should confirm your surgeon’s qualifications, scope of practice, and AHPRA registration. We encourage patients to verify registration and ask questions during consultation.

Is Nipple Areola Correction covered by insurance?

Coverage varies depending on clinical circumstances. Some procedures may be considered reconstructive in certain contexts (for example, following cancer surgery), while others may not be. A consultation is required to discuss eligibility and documentation requirements.

Important Safety Information

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.