What is a nipple correction?
Are you unhappy with your nipples or areola? With a nipple correction or nipple areola correction (e.g. nipple reduction, nipple reduction or reconstruction of inverted nipples) the shape, size and position can be adjusted with a relatively minor procedure. This operation usually takes 30 to 60 minutes.
Procedure – How does a nipple correction or areola correction work?
Nipple reduction
The size of your areolas (the pigmented part around your nipple or areola) can increase in shape over the years. During a nipple areola reduction, the surgeon reduces the diameter around the nipple.
- A portion of the outer edge of the areola is removed and reattached.
- This is often combined with a breast reduction.
Nipple reduction
Nipple reduction is more likely to be performed on women who have (too) long or protruding nipples. This is often hereditary, although breastfeeding can also cause this.
- During the procedure, the protruding part of the nipple is removed.
- Then everything is carefully sutured and covered with gauze.
- If there is asymmetry between the nipples, a correction can also be performed to restore the symmetry.
Correcting an inverted nipple
There are two different types of inverted nipples:
- The first type is an inverted nipple that is normally formed is only sometimes pulled inwards. By placing a ring under the skin this is prevented and is a quick and efficient procedure without scars. The milk ducts remain intact so that you can breastfeed without any problems.
- The second type is the poorly formed inverted nipple. This inverted nipple is more difficult to treat. This problem mainly starts from puberty. An incision is made in the nipple to loosen the milk ducts. In this way, the ducts are prevented from pulling the nipple inwards. After this procedure, you may suffer from crust formation for a few weeks and breastfeeding may no longer be possible.
Benefits
- Nipple corrections are relatively simple procedures. They are usually performed under local anesthesia.
- You can go home the same day.
- You will recover quite quickly after the procedure.
Disadvantages or complications
Every cosmetic procedure may carry potential risks or contraindications.
Possible risks include:
- Blood pooling under the skin
- Adverse reaction to anesthesia
- Wound infection
- Post-operative bleeding
- Permanent scars
- Allergic reaction
- Change in sensation in the chest
- Necrosis of the skin
- Damage to breast tissues
- Inability to breastfeed
Recovery – What to Expect After Nipple Correction?
- After your nipple correction you can go home the same day.
- We recommend arranging transportation when you return home, driving yourself will not be possible and is strongly discouraged to avoid complications.
- Avoid sports or heavy exertion for 6 weeks after the procedure. Give your body a few days of rest after the operation; your skin and breasts will feel sensitive and stiff. You may take Paracetamol for this.
- We recommend arranging transportation when you return home, driving yourself will not be possible and is strongly discouraged to avoid complications.
- Uw scars need half a year to a year and a half to calm down. Take good care of them according to the postoperative instructions you receive and keep them out of the sun or use a sunscreen with protection factor 50.
- Wear a supportive sports bra for 6 weeks.