Inverted Nipples: One or both sides may be affected and to varying degrees. If the inversion of the nipple has been of recent onset, it is very important that a thorough investigation as to the possibility of breast cancer be pursued. Breast cancers can be associated with nipple inversion. Most cases, however, are essentially a simple nipple tissue abnormality that was actually present since birth but only first became noticeable during breast development and puberty. These are simply aesthetically objectionable. Mild cases often respond quite well to simple maneuvers performed during a breast enhancement (augmentation with implants) and are a welcomed “side benefit” to the procedure. More severe cases require some rather sophisticated and tiny incisions which are made in and around the nipple but usually with good success and minimum required in the way of a recovery. Most patients have these issues addressed while having a cosmetic breast procedure – such as a breast augmentation with implants, breast lift or breast reduction – in the operating room. Otherwise, it is quite realistic to have the nipple inversion correction performed alone as an office procedure (usually with local anesthesia and mild sedation).

Inadequate Nipple Length or Poor Projection of the Nipples: This can actually be due to a disproportion in sizes between the nipple and areola rather than a true nipple deficiency. The areola diameter may need to be decreased to make a better match. True length problems can be often be corrected with a minor surgical procedure similar to that used to correct inverted nipples as described above. Sometimes a long-lasting, injectable filler (such as we use for the face) can help in the improvement.

Overly Long or Large Nipples: Again, the possibility that this is actually due to a disproportion between the nipple and the areola sizes must be determined first. The areola diameter may need to be increased. Cosmetic tattooing is the simplest way to do this. In more severe cases of small to absent areola tissue, skin grafts of darker pigmented skin can be used. Otherwise, a surgical reduction in the actual length of the nipple is a very straightforward and relatively simple procedure which can be performed in an office setting. Puffy or overly “fat” nipples can also be thinned down a bit by a similar technique. » Read more: Cosmetic Surgery For The Nipples