Nipple Correction Surgery

Many people, in most cases women, will have noticed small lumps or bumps that sit on the areola, surrounding the nipple. These are known as Montgomery Glands. These small bumps come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are entirely normal. They secrete a small amount of natural oil to keep the areola lubricated. These bumps can change sizes and colour over time, especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

However, while these bumps are typically normal it is always wise to consult your GP if you notice any change to your breasts.

Supernumerary nipples, commonly referred to as ‘third’ or ‘extra’ nipples, represent a rare condition affecting less than 0.2% of the population. These additional nipples, which can sometimes occur in pairs or multiples, are typically benign but may be removed for various reasons. Reasons for removal include cosmetic preferences, discomfort or irritation caused by clothing or physical activity, or psychological distress. In some cases, medical concerns such as the risk of developing conditions in the extra nipple tissue might also prompt removal. Each case is unique, and the decision to remove supernumerary nipples is often a personal one, influenced by physical, aesthetic, or emotional factors.

In the realm of breast surgery, the artistry lies not just in reshaping the breast but also in the meticulous refinement of nipple positioning and appearance. Achieving a harmonious balance is crucial for a natural and aesthetically pleasing outcome.

At the forefront of this delicate task is Dr. Robert Drielsma, a renowned Specialist Plastic Surgeon. Dr. Drielsma is deeply committed to not only meeting your breasts vision but also to maintaining the integrity and sensation of the nipples. This dual focus ensures a result that is as functional as it is visually appealing.

We understand the importance of future considerations such as breastfeeding. During your personalised consultation, Dr. Drielsma encourages open discussions about your lifestyle and future plans. This allows us to tailor a surgical approach that aligns with your aspirations, ensuring the preservation of nipple functionality to the greatest extent possible.

While striving for perfection, we also believe in transparency. As with any surgical procedure, there are inherent risks. Our commitment to you includes a thorough exploration of these factors, ensuring you are informed and confident in your journey towards transformation.

Breast augmentation mammoplasty rarely requires nipple correction surgery. Generally, after breast augmentation mammoplasty, your nipples naturally may appear higher on your chest immediately after surgery. This will eventually improve as the implants settle into place and swelling subsides.

Some women report larger, less prominent areola and less feeling in the nipple after breast surgery but that is not the result for every woman – each person and each surgery are different. This lack of feeling – or, in some case, hypersensitivity – may continue for the first few months after surgery but, in most cases, will return to normal as healing progresses.

Inverted nipples may be helped by breast augmentation mammoplasty due to the “pressure from behind” of the implant placement. Dr Drielsma will usually advise not to do nipple eversion during breast augmentation mammoplasty to assess the effects of the augmentation mammoplasty first.

Embarking on a journey of breast augmentation can be transformative, bringing with it subtle yet significant changes in your body’s landscape. Post-procedure, you may notice your nipples sitting a bit higher on your chest. This initial change is part of the natural settling process, where implants find their place and swelling diminishes, leading to a more harmonious appearance.

Every woman’s experience with breast augmentation is unique. Some may observe changes in the size and prominence of their areola, or variations in nipple sensation. These changes can range from reduced feeling to heightened sensitivity. It’s important to remember that these sensations are typically temporary, gradually returning to normal as your body heals and adapts over the following months.

In cases of inverted nipples, breast augmentation can offer an unexpected benefit. The strategic placement of implants can exert gentle pressure, potentially aiding in the natural correction of inversion. Dr. Drielsma, with his expertise in the field, recommends a patient-first approach. He often advises against immediate nipple eversion procedures during breast augmentation. This allows for an assessment of the augmentation’s effects first, ensuring that any additional interventions are truly necessary and beneficial for you.

Your needs and expectations are as individual as you are, and our goal is to guide and support you through every step, ensuring a result that not only enhances your appearance but also respects and preserves your body’s natural functionality.

Nipple Reduction Surgery usually involves removing a doughnut of nipple tissue from around the nipple base. It is possible to perform nipple reduction under a local or general anaesthetic.

Oversized stretched or unevenly shaped areolas can also be remedied under local anaesthetic by removing a doughnut-shaped piece of skin around the areola or nipple.

This periareolar technique, also known as the Binelli technique, has 3 major problems

a) it creates a puckered scar around the areolar
b) It flattens the breast, taking away its natural projection
c) the nipple always stretches out again to a larger size- this is due to the tension the breast will place on the nipple following surgery.

Overly large and puffy nipples can be part of natural breast development or can follow breastfeeding.  They often present as cracked, bleeding or uncomfortable nipples.  This can be remedied by surgically removing the excess nipple projection and reducing the width of the nipple. This surgery can also be done under local anaesthetic and is unlikely to affect future breastfeeding.

Embarking on a surgical journey, it’s important to have a realistic understanding of the outcomes, including the aspect of scarring. Like all surgeries, nipple surgery will leave some marks, but these are not just scars – they’re a testament to your journey towards change.

The extent and appearance of scarring are influenced by several factors, including the technique used during surgery and your body’s natural healing capabilities. Every individual has a unique response to healing, and this plays a significant role in how scars develop and mature.

The good news is that scarring from nipple surgery often proves to be subtler compared to other types of breast surgeries. As time progresses and your body heals, these scars typically become less noticeable, blending more seamlessly with your skin’s natural tone and texture.

Our commitment to you extends beyond the procedure itself. We provide comprehensive guidance on post-surgical care, aimed at minimising scarring and promoting optimal healing. The journey to healing is as important as the surgery, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.