Nipple Reduction

Nipple reduction surgery does not alter the size or appearance of the areolas. Enlargement of the nipples and areolas is often seen together, usually as a result of pregnancy and breastfeeding. Areolar reduction may be another surgical option, however most commonly breast lift surgery is required to lower risk of recurrent areolar stretching over time. Dr. Power will discuss the best options for you after learning about your concerns and performing your clinical examination.

Although most cases return to normal sensation within a few months, there is risk of permanent nipple sensation change associated with this procedure.

Depending on the technique of nipple reduction performed, it may affect your ability to breastfeed. Dr. Power will discuss the best timing of surgery for you based on your goals and presentation.

Nipple reduction may be combined with other breast procedures, including breast lift, reduction, or augmentation. Combining your procedures may be an effective way to reduce downtime and costs. If you’re considering other breast surgery options, Dr. Power will tailor a surgical plan for you during consultation.

When performed on its own, nipple reduction is generally well-tolerated under local anesthetic and is typically not very painful. Topical numbing cream may be applied before surgery to reduce discomfort associated with injection of the local anesthetic. When performed in combination with another breast surgery, it is performed under general anesthesia while you are fully asleep.

There are different techniques to make nipples smaller depending on your presentation and goals. A wedge excision may be performed to reduce overall nipple size. A ring-shape excision may also be an option to reduce nipple projection and size.

Nipple reduction on its own starts at $900. You will receive a detailed quote after consultation with Dr. Power based on surgical recommendations tailored to your needs.

Your nipples may enlarge during puberty through normal breast development. They may also increase in size following pregnancies and breastfeeding.

Techniques for nipple reduction include wedge procedures vs. ring-shaped excisions to reduce overall nipple size and/or projection.

When performed on its own, nipple reduction generally takes 30-60 minutes. Nipple reduction surgery may also be performed at the same time as a longer surgery under general anesthetic, for example, a breast lift.

Recovery from nipple reduction is fairly comfortable, with most patients feeling back to normal within a week or so. When combined with more extensive breast procedures, the recovery time and aftercare instructions will vary.

Dr. Power makes meticulous incisions to ensure the best healing from nipple reduction surgery. Any long-lasting scars are generally concealed in the pigmented skin of the nipples.

In most cases you will continue to have feeling in your nipples after nipple reduction surgery. There is risk of sensation change post-operatively, which may result in the minority of cases.