Nipple and Breast Surgery

Nipple and Breast Surgery. There are several types of nipple surgery available, including:

  1. Nipple reduction: This surgery is used to decrease the size of the nipple, usually for cosmetic reasons. The procedure involves removing a portion of the nipple and suturing the remaining tissue together.
  2. Nipple reconstruction: This surgery is used to create a new nipple and areola complex for patients who have had a mastectomy or other breast surgery. The procedure involves using skin grafts or flaps from other areas of the body to create a new nipple.
  3. Nipple inversion correction: This surgery is used to correct inverted nipples, where the nipples are retracted inward rather than pointing outward. The procedure involves releasing the ducts and tissues that are pulling the nipple inward, allowing it to protrude outward.
  4. Areola reduction: This surgery is used to decrease the size of the areola, usually for cosmetic reasons. The procedure involves removing a portion of the outer edge of the areola and suturing the remaining tissue together.
  5. Areola reconstruction: This surgery is used to create a new areola for patients who have had a mastectomy or other breast surgery. The procedure involves using tattooing or skin grafts to create a new areola.
  6. Nipple Graft:A nipple graft is a surgical technique used in breast reconstruction or breast reduction procedures. It involves removing the nipple and areola complex from the breast tissue and repositioning it as a graft on the reconstructed or reduced breast.

    During the procedure, the surgeon removes the nipple and areola complex, along with a small amount of surrounding skin and tissue, from the original breast. The graft is then transplanted to the new location, where the surgeon creates a pocket to hold the graft in place. Once the graft is secured, the surgeon uses sutures to close the incisions.

    A nipple graft is typically used when the breast tissue has been severely damaged or removed, such as in cases of mastectomy, or in cases where the size of the nipple and areola needs to be reduced. It can also be used in gender confirmation surgery for transgender men.

    As with any surgical procedure, there are risks and potential complications associated with nipple grafts, including loss of the graft, decreased sensation, and scarring. Your surgeon will discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure with you and help determine if a nipple graft is the best option for your individual case.

Combining Nipple Surgery with Breast Procedures

Your surgeon may recommend nipple surgery in addition to the following breast procedures.

  1. Breast augmentation: This surgery is used to increase the size and improve the shape of the breasts. It involves inserting breast implants beneath the breast tissue or chest muscle to enhance the breast size and shape. The nipples are usually not affected during this surgery.
  2. Breast reduction: This surgery is used to reduce the size of the breasts and improve their shape. It involves removing excess breast tissue and skin and repositioning the nipple and areola to a higher position on the breast.
  3. Breast lift: This surgery is used to lift sagging or drooping breasts and improve their shape. It involves removing excess skin and reshaping the breast tissue, and repositioning the nipple and areola to a higher position on the breast.
  4. Breast reconstruction: This surgery is used to rebuild a breast that has been removed due to cancer or other medical conditions. It involves using breast implants, tissue expanders, or flap reconstruction to create a new breast mound, and reconstructing the nipple and areola to give a natural appearance.
  5. Breast revision surgery: This surgery is used to correct complications or problems that occur after previous breast surgeries. The nipple may be repositioned or reshaped during this surgery.

During these breast surgeries, the nipples may be repositioned or reshaped to achieve the desired appearance. Your surgeon can help determine which breast surgery is best suited for your individual needs and goals, and will provide you with information on the potential risks and benefits of each procedure.