Nipple Correction

Concerns Included in Nipple Correction

The nipple and the surrounding areola are distinct structures, and treatment is selected according to which area is involved. Correction may be aesthetic or may address functional concerns associated with nipple retraction.

• Inverted or retracted nipples.
• Nipple size, shape, projection, or asymmetry.
• Areolas that are enlarged or asymmetric relative to the breast.
• Nipple-areola position concerns that may require a lift rather than an isolated correction.

Assessment Before Treatment

Consultation considers when the concern developed, the degree of inversion or asymmetry, sensation, breast health, breastfeeding priorities, and whether another breast operation is planned. A newly acquired or changing nipple inversion should be medically assessed before elective correction.

How Correction Is Planned

Depending on the concern, surgery may release and support a retracted nipple, reduce or reshape nipple tissue, or reduce and reposition the areola. Incisions are localized to the nipple-areola area where possible. A low nipple position caused by overall breast sagging may be better addressed as part of a breast lift.

Recovery and Scar Care

A protective dressing, short initial rest, wound and scar care, and temporary limits on exercise or pressure on the area may be advised. Swelling, bruising, tenderness, and temporary sensitivity changes can occur. Recovery differs when nipple correction is combined with a larger breast operation.

Risks and Functional Considerations

Risks include bleeding, infection, wound-healing problems, visible scars, asymmetry, recurrence of inversion, and temporary or persistent sensation changes. Some techniques may affect milk ducts and breastfeeding, so future feeding priorities should be discussed without assuming function can always be preserved.

Related Breast Surgery Procedures

Nipple or areola correction may be planned alongside a related breast procedure.