Types of Nipple & Areola Concerns
Inverted Nipples
Inverted nipples are graded on a scale. Nipples can be inverted constantly or intermittently. They can be flat or appear in a slit like depression. This can be a problem if a woman is breastfeeding. As there are various degrees of inverted nipples, the degree of surgery will also vary accordingly. However, all scars are minimal and concealed within the nipple or areolar region.
Grades of nipple inversion
Mild Inversion
The nipples are intermittently inverted, but can evert (pop out) in response to stimulation or temperature. The potential to breastfeed is typically not affected after surgery.
Moderate Inversion
The nipples are almost constantly inverted, but if they do evert, they return almost immediately. The potential to breastfeed after this type of surgery may be reduced, as surgery often affects the milk ducts.
Severe Inversion
The nipples are permanently severely inverted. Breastfeeding is typically not possible following this surgery as the milk ducts are (in most cases) divided to correct them.
Enlarged Nipples
Some individuals have nipples that become long, dark or sometimes wide. This can be due to prolonged breastfeeding or simply to normal breast development. Surgery can reduce length and/or width.
Length: Dr Dona creates a circumferential excision of skin around the nipple. However, deeper structures such as milk ducts are left intact. The nipple is then sutured to its shorter, predetermined length.
Width: Dr Dona uses various surgical techniques to adjust nipple width.
Enlarged Areolae
The areolae are the pigmented areas around the nipple. Some women have very large areolae (circumferentially). This causes no functional concern; however, some women elect to have surgery for aesthetic reasons.
The areolae can be minimised using one of three methods:
- An incision is created around the outside of the areola (most common)
- An incision is made at the base of the nipple (uncommon)
A lollipop incision is made (in severe cases). This is usually performed with a Breast Lift (Mastopexy).
Puffy Areolae
This is when some of the breast tissue appears to herniate into the areola. Several factors can cause this issue, which leads to the areola appearing ‘cone-shaped’. When the nipple is stimulated, its appearance may change, but reverts when the areola relaxes. The surgery required varies, depending on the issue. Typically, though, it will include an incision around the areola or the nipple.
Your Initial Consultation with Dr Dona
Your consultation is an essential step in assessing whether Nipple or Areola Surgery is appropriate for your individual circumstances. It also provides an opportunity to discuss your concerns and gain a clear understanding of what the procedure involves.
During your appointment, you will typically discuss:
- Your specific concerns regarding the nipple or areola area
- Your medical history and any previous surgeries
- Suitable surgical options following an examination of the area
If Dr Dona determines that you are a suitable candidate, he will explain the procedure in detail, including what it involves, the expected recovery process, costs and potential risks or complications.
Dr Dona takes a thorough and personalised approach, ensuring that all your questions are answered and that you have a clear understanding of your options before making any decisions.
Dr Eddy Dona is a highly experienced specialist plastic surgeon who has dedicated much of his profession to Nipple & Areola Surgery.
When considering Nipple & Areola Surgery, it’s vital you consider your options and do your research carefully. Not all surgeons are equal – or have the same level of expertise and experience.
Recovery and Your Post-operative Care Plan
Supporting your healing every step of the way…
Before your surgery, you’ll receive a personalised post-operative care plan designed to support your recovery. Care begins shortly after your procedure, with a series of in-clinic HeaLED post-operative appointments. These appointments allow Dr Dona and our nurses to monitor your progress, provide wound care and guide you through each stage of healing.
The HeaLED post-operative care program is a structured plan designed to support the body’s natural healing processes, help reduce swelling, and promote healthy scar formation.
Key components of the HeaLED Program include:
- LED Light Therapy: Helps reduce swelling and inflammation while supporting tissue repair.
- Rejuran Therapy: Encourages collagen production and supports skin strength.
- Medical-grade Skincare: Helps maintain skin health and assists with scar management during recovery.
Together, these treatments form an integrated care plan to support your recovery and healing.
What causes inverted nipples?
Inverted nipples occur when the tissue or milk ducts beneath the nipple are tight or shortened, pulling the nipple inward. This may be present from birth or develop over time due to factors such as breastfeeding, ageing or changes in breast tissue.
Potential risks & complications
All surgical procedures, including minor ones, carry potential risks and complications. It is essential to understand these fully before deciding to proceed with surgery.
Find out more about the potential risks and complications related to surgery >
Specific risks & complications related to Nipple and Areola Surgery
Change in nipple sensation: There may be an increase or decrease in nipple sensation. This can occur after any breast surgery. However, normal sensation usually returns after six to 12 months – but not always. Depending on the procedure, at least 10 % will end up with permanently altered (lost or painfully increased) nipple sensation.
Scarring: All surgery leaves scars. However, to support healing and minimise the appearance of your scars, you’ll be placed on our HeaLED Program, which includes LED light therapy, Rejuran therapy, and medical-grade skincare.
Nipple loss: If, after surgery, the blood supply to the soft tissues that support the nipple or areola is compromised, it’s possible to lose part or all of the nipple or areola. Avoiding all nicotine-based products will help minimise the chances of this occurring.
Reduced ability to breastfeed: Some procedures in this area can reduce or eliminate the potential to breastfeed.
Longevity: Your surgery results should be long-lasting. However, factors such as breastfeeding and hormonal changes will affect the size and shape of your breasts, which could make the nipples or areola revert to their position before surgery. In the end, no surgery will stop your body from undergoing the normal changes associated with life and ageing.
