Cosmetic Nipple Surgery
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Dr. Horton
Emily Sespaniak, MSN, FNP-C
Danielle Bautista, MSN, ANP
What is Cosmetic Nipple Surgery?
Benefits of Cosmetic Nipple Surgery
Candidates for Cosmetic Nipple Surgery
Preparing for Cosmetic Nipple Surgery
Inverted Nipple Correction
Nipple Reduction
Cosmetic Nipple Surgery Recovery
FAQs About Cosmetic Nipple Surgery
Whether due to genetics, life changes, or breastfeeding, many women seek cosmetic nipple surgery to feel more confident and comfortable in their own
Trusted Source
Cosmetic procedures for the nipples and areolas
American Society of Plastic Surgeons
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skin.
This specialized category of breast procedures includes inverted nipple correction and nipple reduction, both of which are performed by Dr. Karen Horton, a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon serving patients throughout the San Francisco Bay Area and greater California. These procedures can improve nipple appearance, restore function, and be performed alone or as part of a larger cosmetic surgery plan, such as a Mommy Makeover, breast augmentation, or breast lift.
What is Cosmetic Nipple Surgery?
Cosmetic nipple surgery refers to minor surgical procedures designed to correct nipple inversion, reduce nipple size, or improve symmetry. These techniques are customized based on each patient’s goals and anatomy and may be performed alongside other breast surgeries, such as breast reduction, gynecomastia treatment for men, or reconstruction following breast cancer.
Benefits of Cosmetic Nipple Surgery
- Improves nipple shape, size, and projection
- Balances the overall appearance of the breasts
- Can restore symmetry between nipples
- May improve breastfeeding function and sensation
- Minimally invasive with quick recovery
Candidates for Cosmetic Nipple Surgery
You may be a good candidate if you:
- Have nipple inversion or retracted nipples
- Feel your nipples are too large, long, or asymmetrical
- Are experiencing nipple changes after pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Are planning breast augmentation, breast lift, or breast reduction
- Are in good general health and have realistic expectations
Preparing for Cosmetic Nipple Surgery
Before your procedure, Dr. Horton will conduct a detailed consultation, which includes reviewing your medical history, discussing your goals, and performing a physical evaluation. Preoperative instructions may include discontinuing certain medications, discontinuing smoking and nicotine use in any form at least six weeks before surgery, and preparing for a few days of downtime.
A Note on GLP-1 Medications: If you are currently taking a GLP-1 receptor agonist such as semaglutide or tirzepatide, you must stop taking it at least one month before your tummy tuck surgery. These medications affect gastric motility and anesthesia safety and can negatively influence wound healing after surgery; you will be educated more about these risks and be provided with specific guidance during your consultation. Learn more here.
Inverted Nipple Correction
Inverted nipple correction can involve just one or both nipples and affects
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Flat and Inverted Nipples
Cleveland Clinic
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up to 20%
of the population. Women with inverted nipples may face embarrassment or self-consciousness, or may have functional difficulties with breastfeeding or erogenous sensation. Some women note their nipples are increasingly inverted after they have finished having children; nipple correction can also be part of a Mommy Makeover. Inverted nipple correction surgery addresses these issues by releasing tight fibrous bands beneath the nipple that cause retraction.
During inverted nipple repair, congenitally tight bands that extend from the breast to the nipple base are divided. A small incision is made at the base of the nipple at its junction with the areola, the colored circle surrounding the nipple, and the tight bands are released. Milk ducts and nerve connections are preserved as much as possible.
Depending on the degree of inversion, the surgical procedure can take 30 minutes to an hour to perform. Dissolving internal sutures are used. Surgery takes place under local anesthesia in our San Francisco Plastic Surgery center, and downtime is a few days. After surgery, a soft, absorbent dressing is applied, and Dr. Horton may recommend using a foam “donut” nipple splint for a few weeks.
Nipple Reduction
Patients with overly large or elongated nipples may opt for a nipple reduction to achieve a more normal, natural appearing
Trusted Source
Nipple reduction – An adjunct to augmentation mammaplasty
Canadian Journal of Plastic Surgery
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nipple.
Like the correction of inverted nipples, this surgical procedure is offered as an office outpatient procedure and takes up to an hour to perform. A small incision is made at the base of the nipple. Dissolving sutures are hidden beneath the nipple, and the nipple is made smaller and less prominent to suit your specific wishes. Sensation and the ability to breastfeed should remain after surgery.
After nipple correction (whether for correction of inverted nipples or size reduction a soft foam “donut” is often worn over the nipple to protect it during healing. One will be placed over the nipple after surgery, and patients are sent home with a few extras to wear as protection during the first week or two after repair.
Foam “donuts” to protect the nipple.
Nipple reduction can also be part of a Mommy Makeover. If additional pregnancies are planned, it is best to wait until after nursing is complete for nipple reduction surgery.
For more information, please read our blog Nipples & Plastic Surgery – What is normal, what can be changed?
Before & After
Cosmetic Nipple Surgery Recovery
Most patients return to normal activities within a few days. You may experience mild swelling or sensitivity, which typically resolves within a short period. Recovery includes wearing the protective foam donut shield and following Post-operative care instructions to support smooth healing and reduce scarring.
After photos will be taken during follow-up appointments to document healing and outcomes.
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Karen Horton
If you’re considering inverted nipple correction, nipple reduction, or other breast procedures, schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Karen Horton in San Francisco, CA. As a trusted Bay Area Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Horton offers unparalleled expertise and artistry in cosmetic surgery. Contact us today to take the next step toward improved confidence and comfort.
FAQs About Cosmetic Nipple Surgery
All surgical procedures involving incisions will result in some degree of scarring. However, with nipple surgery, the incisions are typically small and strategically placed at the base of the nipple, where they blend naturally with the surrounding areolar tissue. Most patients find that their scars heal well and become barely noticeable over time.
Yes. Many patients choose to combine nipple surgery with other cosmetic surgery procedures, such as breast augmentation, breast lift, or breast reduction, or for a more complete enhancement. Some even include liposuction, abdominoplasty, or skin care treatments as part of a Mommy Makeover for full-body rejuvenation. Dr. Horton will help you determine the safest and most effective treatment plan during your consultation.
