What is a Nipple Reduction?

Long or oversized nipples can be a great source of embarrassment for men and women. A Nipple Reduction is a surgical procedure developed to improve the appearance of the nipple and chest/breast. Nipple reductions are requested by both women and men. Many people confuse the areola (the darker pigmented skin around the nipple) with the nipple (the projected part of the breast). This procedure is designed to reshape or reduce the size of just the nipple although it can also be combined with an Areola Reduction. Because this procedure is quick and simple with almost immediate results and minimal risk, and can be performed in conjunction with other procedures, such as a Breast Augmentation or a Breast Lift, it is increasingly being requested by patients. Although a Nipple Reduction is a minor procedure, it greatly increases one's confidence and self-esteem by beautifying the chest/breast.

A Nipple Reduction is generally performed under local anesthesia, at an outpatient surgery center in about 30 to 60 minutes. The incisions are inconspicuous and made on the nipple. Excess tissue is removed in a sinusoidal pattern and the skin sutured. Sometimes a cylinder of skin around the neck of the nipple is removed and then the outer portion is "pushed" back and sutured. Nipple sensation is generally normal and a woman's ability to breast feed is usually preserved. Dr. Grover's patients experience no bruising, very little swelling if any and some tenderness around the incision area. All in all, there is very little discomfort with very minimal down time and most patients return to normal activity within one day.

Keep in mind that with any surgery, no matter how minor, it is extremely important to find a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon like Dr. Grover, who is highly qualified and specializes in this procedure.

Nipple Reduction is not a medical necessity; insurance does not cover the costs for this procedure.

Who is the best candidate for this procedure?

If your nipples are large or droopy and you are in good general health with a clear understanding of the potential results of this procedure, you are a good candidate for a Nipple Reduction. Because breast feeding can leave a woman's nipple long and droopy, many women request this procedure along with a Breast Augmentation following child rearing in order to once again obtain a more full, natural and youthful appearance. Many men request nipple reduction because they are embarrassed by the size of their nipples with or without clothes on.

What are the risks?

The results are permanent although changes may occur over time as a result of the natural aging process. As with any surgery, there is a chance of infection, scarring or loss of nipple sensation although rare.