Nipple Surgery

Nipple surgery is used surgically reshape normal variations of the nipples, such as enlarged nipples, inverted or protruding nipples or asymmetrical nipples. These conditions occur in both women and men. Inverted nipples are the most common reason to have nipple surgery.

Your nipple has two parts, the nipple, and areola. The areola is the darker skin that surrounds the nipple and the nipple itself is the projected part. The most common reason for nipple correction surgery is for inverted nipples. This naturally can occur as a result of tissue tethers and milk ducts pulling the nipples into the breast leading to their inversion and a retracted appearance.

Nipple inversions are graded 1-3 dependent upon the severity:
Grade 1: when the nipple can be manipulated to protrude. Breastfeeding is usually possible with this grade of inversion. Grade 1 nipple inversion and corrective surgery are usually only undertaken for cosmetic purposes.
Grade 2: when the nipple is inverted but can be forcefully manipulated to protrude temporarily. Breastfeeding may still be possible with Grade 2 nipple inversion. If surgery is necessary, it will involve surgery on the milk ducts.
Grade 3: when the nipple remains inverted even when vigorously stimulated. For Grade 3 nipple inversion surgery is used to rebalance the pull of the muscles.

Where is nipple surgery done?

Your nipple surgery will be performed at the brand-new Honeysuckle Day Hospital in Newcastle, a fully licensed and accredited day hospital which is purposely equipped to care for cosmetic surgical procedures.

What is the length of stay for nipple surgery?

Nipple surgery is a day only procedure.

Type of anaesthesia?

General anaesthetic

Approximate cost of nipple surgery:

Costs vary according to the complexity and time for the surgical procedure. After your consultation with Dr. Verma’s team will provide you with a detailed quote outlining all costs.

Not sure if you need nipple surgery?

We advise booking a consultation with Dr. Verma. After examining your breast, Dr. Verma will be able to determine what Grade nipple inversion you have and will discuss your needs and what options are available to you.

Please also see our list of general FAQs for more details.

Do I qualify for nipple surgery?

If you are an individual with enlarged nipple(s), inverted or protruding nipple(s) or asymmetrical nipples, you may qualify for nipple surgery.

Who is a good candidate for nipple surgery?

If you have a Grade 1 – 3 nipple inversion, you are likely a suitable candidate for nipple surgery.

What to expect during the consultation?

At the time of your consultation, Dr. Verma will examine your breast/s to determine the Grade of your nipple inversion. He will also take photographs during your consultation. This is a vital part of cosmetic surgery to properly document and records your progress pre and post-surgery.

What are the side effects of nipple surgery?

All surgery has possible side effects that can include:

• Infection
• Bruising and bleeding
• Formation of hematoma (blood clots)
• Scarring
• Problems related to general anaesthetic
• Postoperative pain

What are the risks and complications of nipple surgery?

Particular risks and complications related to nipple surgery can include:

• Milk duct damage which may impact on your future ability to breastfeed
• Loss of nipple sensation
• The nipple re-inverting after surgery
• Nipple necrosis (death of tissue). This complication is very rare and is more likely to occur in smokers

Care of your wounds

You will be provided with detailed instructions by Finesse Cosmetic Surgery with regards to care of your sutures, wounds etc. Dr. Verma uses dissolvable stitches for this procedure which do not require removal.

Downtime

In most instances, a return to normal daily activity will be within 24-48 hours after your procedure.

When will you see results?

The results will be seen immediately although you will have swelling for several weeks after your surgery.

What will be your follow up schedule?

Dr. Verma will see you one week post the operation and then organize subsequent follow-ups according to how you recover. All follow-up visits cost up to three months after the operation are included in the cost of the surgery. Revision surgery for any complications carries an extra charge.

Similar to your consultation visit (see above), Dr. Verma will be taking photographs in order to document healing during follow up visits.

How long do the effects of nipple surgery last for?

Successful nipple surgery is permanent, however, in 20% of cases, the inversion may recur.