What to expect to learn with this guide:
You’ll find everything you need to know about nipple reduction surgery in this comprehensive guide. Learn about the reasons you may need nipple reduction surgery, what happens during the procedure, the different options that are available, and what to think about for your consultation. You’ll also learn what to expect during your recovery and about any appointments that may follow your procedure.
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Your nipples serve a very important function (breastfeeding!) but if they’re uneven, droopy or wider than you might like (an issue known as nipple hypertrophy), it can cause you a great bit of turmoil. In some cases, there can be extra skin hanging from the nipples or cases where the nipples project out greatly from the breasts. Men may also choose to have nipple reduction surgery. Luckily, a surgical procedure known as nipple reduction can help give you symmetrical, smaller or less protruding nipples.
What is a nipple reduction?
Nipples are the raised area in the middle of your breasts not to be confused with your areolas which are the darker, pigmented circular area around your nipples. Though both can be reduced, a nipple reduction surgery concentrates on decreasing the size of the nipple. A nipple reduction surgical procedure removes extra skin and tissues and gives the nipples a smaller procedure. The surgery isn’t as common as other types of breast surgery but makes a nice addition to breast augmentation, reduction or a breast lift procedure. You can also have a nipple reduction as a solo procedure. When performed by itself, a nipple reduction is a simple, outpatient procedure that yields great results and less recovery time.
Do I have choices for my nipple reduction?
Yes. There are choices available for your nipple reduction surgery.
Am I a candidate for areola reduction surgery?
You may be unhappy with your current nipples for a bevy of reasons. If any of the following issues apply to your situation, nipple reduction surgery may be the perfect fit for you.
What should I expect at my consultation?
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At your nipple reduction consultation you’ll meet with your surgeon and discuss the details of the procedure and if you’ll be a good candidate for the surgery. Your surgeon will ask you what bothers you most about your nipples and check to see if the procedure will benefit you for the future. Your surgeon will take measurements and discuss the best options available.
Then, you’ll get to see real-life results of your procedure, including:
You’ll also be able to go over any questions you have for your surgeon. Don’t forget to make a list of your health history and any questions you want to go over. Having a real list on hand can help you remember to ask everything you need to calm your nerves before surgery.
What will happen before, during and after my surgery?
Prior to your surgery you’ll want to check the following things off of your to-do list:
Once your surgery date has been confirmed, you’ll be given specific instructions to follow in the days before your procedure. Make sure to follow all of your surgeon’s instructions so that you don’t have a delay in your surgery or have to reschedule to another day. Nipple reduction surgery by itself is a simple procedure that can be done in an outpatient surgery center and sometimes in the office setting.
Here’s what will happen during your procedure:
- 1You’ll be given local anesthesia if having only nipple reduction surgery. General anesthesia will be given if having more than one procedure at a time.
- 2Horizontal or vertical incisions will be made on the nipple using special advanced tools that require minimal cuts and scarring.
- 3Extra tissue and skin will then be removed and the nipples arranged, shortened or tightened.
- 4Your incision will then be closed with a suture or stitch.
- 5Your nipples will be covered with a bandage much like a band-aid on both sides.
Nipple reduction and revision surgery is typically minimal and will take less than an hour to complete.
After your surgery, you can expect the following:
Though your procedure is minimal, you’ll still want to monitor for various side effects from surgery like:
Recovery from nipple surgery
You should recover very well after nipple surgery. You’ll be given pain medication to help with the soreness you may feel and can take it up to a few days after surgery, though most patients find their pain responds well to over-the-counter medicines. You may have slight bruising as well. You’ll have some pain and swelling for a few days after surgery. Recovery should take 7 to 10 days. During that time you’ll want to avoid exercise, sexual activity and lifting. Your doctor will give you any extra instructions for special care.
Results, Maintenance & Follow up
Results will be visible right after surgery and you’ll be able to see your nipple reduction right away. You’ll most likely come in the first week after surgery to make sure your healing is going as planned. Then you’ll see the doctor a few months later and then no more than once a year. Long-term results are great and you should still have nipple sensation and be able to breastfeed after surgery.
Who should I consult for nipple reduction surgery?
A team that understands your wants for having nipple reduction surgery means you’ll be given the utmost in care. That’s the key to a successful surgery. Make sure to seek a board-certified surgeon who is up to date on all of the cutting edge surgical procedures available.
Choosing to have nipple reduction surgery is the right choice to improve your body confidence and self-esteem. It’s a minimally invasive surgery with few risks and immediate results.