In short: Nipple and areola surgery covers nipple reduction, correction of inverted nipples and areola reduction. These are short procedures that change the size, shape or projection of the nipple and areola, and are usually day cases.
- What is the Nipple Areola Complex…
- Surgeries on the Nipple Areolar…
- Am I a Good Candidate for Nipple…
- Which procedure?
- Nipple Surgery and Areola Surgery Cost
- Risks and Considerations
- Further Reading
- Recovery, week by week
- Questions
What is the Nipple Areola Complex (NAC)?
The nipple is located at the centre of the breast and is connected to the mammary glands, which produce milk. The areola is the darker area surrounding the nipple and can vary in size and shape, usually appearing round or oval.
Surgeries on the Nipple Areolar Complex in Sydney
There are several surgical procedures available for the nipple areolar complex (NAC). Some procedures are performed alongside breast surgery, while others can be done independently.
1. Nipple Lift
A nipple lift may be considered for individuals with nipples that sit lower than desired, which can occur due to changes after breastfeeding, significant weight loss, or ageing. The procedure adjusts nipple position to achieve a more typical anatomical alignment. Preservation of nerves and blood vessels is a key aspect to maintain sensation and support breastfeeding function. Nipple lifts can be performed on one or both breasts, often alongside a breast lift (mastopexy) or breast reduction.
More information: Breast lift | Breast reduction
2. Areola Correction Surgery
Areola correction, or reduction, reduces the size of one or both areolas. It may also be suitable for areolas that are protruding or have changed in size due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight fluctuations. The procedure can be performed alone or alongside other breast surgeries, including mastopexy, breast augmentation, or reduction. The surgery involves adjusting the outer area of the areola and securing the new size with internal sutures to help maintain shape.
3. Nipple Reduction Surgery
Nipple reduction addresses enlargement (nipple hypertrophy), which can result from milk duct development or repeated breastfeeding. Enlarged nipples may cause discomfort due to rubbing against clothing. The procedure removes excess tissue to reduce projection or diameter while maintaining nipple function.
4. Nipple Correction Procedures – Inverted Nipple Correction
Inverted nipple correction aims to allow the nipple to project outward. This condition can affect both men and women and may result from congenital factors, trauma, ageing, infection, or previous breast surgery. Correction can improve comfort and functionality, including breastfeeding for women.
Common causes of inverted nipples include:
- Congenital (present at birth)
- Disease or trauma causing inflammation
- Age-related changes
- Previous breast surgery complications
- Breast duct ectasia (widened milk ducts with thickened walls)
- Breast cysts
- Benign breast tumours
- Subareolar abscess
- Mastitis (inflammation, sometimes with infection)
- Infection
- Fat necrosis
The procedure typically involves a small incision along the nipple to release tight milk ducts. The nipple is then allowed to project outward. The exact technique is determined by the treating surgeon after assessment of the nipple.
Am I a Good Candidate for Nipple Reshaping?
You may be a candidate for nipple reshaping surgery if any of the following apply:
- You have a congenital nipple abnormality or specific concerns about the appearance of your nipples.
- You have experienced changes due to significant weight loss, breastfeeding, enlarged breasts, ageing, skin quality, or genetics, which have affected nipple position or orientation.
- You have enlarged nipples that cause discomfort or interfere with clothing or daily activities.
Which procedure?
| Nipple reduction | Inverted nipple correction | Areola reduction | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What it changes | Length or width of the nipple | Brings an inward-pointing nipple out | Diameter of the areola |
| Scar | At the base of the nipple | At the base of the nipple | Around the edge of the areola |
Nipple Surgery and Areola Surgery Cost
After your initial consultation with Dr Kumar, you will receive a detailed, itemised quote. This typically includes Dr Kumar’s fee, the anaesthetist’s fee, the surgical assistant’s fee, and hospital fees. Information on in-house payment plans for nipple and areola surgery is also provided.
Can Private Health Insurance Be Used?
If you have private health insurance, it may be possible to use this for nipple or areola surgery. Pre-approval from Medicare may also be required, using photographs taken in the clinic or during surgery.
Operating theatre and hospital costs, including postoperative care, may be covered if your insurance level and eligibility criteria are met. Medicare and private insurance may also contribute to Dr Kumar’s professional fees.
Coverage and rebates vary between individuals. It is recommended to discuss your specific circumstances with Dr Kumar to determine if your surgery, or part of it, may be covered by your health fund.
Risks and Considerations
Before considering any plastic surgical procedure performed by Dr Kumar, it’s crucial to be aware of potential risks and complications. While Dr Kumar and his team prioritize safety and strive for successful outcomes, it’s important to understand that all surgeries come with inherent risks. Below is a general overview of some of the potential risks associated with plastic surgical procedures. For a more comprehensive understanding of risks specific to the procedure you’re considering, we invite you to visit the procedure dedicated page on Dr Kumar’s website.
Further Reading
Dr Kumar was invited to provide expert commentary on nipple aesthetics and was featured in local and international media. You can read the article here.
Recovery, week by week
| When | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Day of surgery | Usually a day case, and you go home the same day. |
| Weeks 1 to 2 | Time off work. Mild soreness and swelling. Keep dressings clean and dry as instructed. First review with Dr Kumar and his nurses at about one week. |
| Weeks 2 to 6 | Most patients return to work from about two weeks, then gradually resume most everyday activities over the next four weeks, depending on how physical the activity is. No heavy lifting or straining, and drive only once you can do so comfortably and safely. The Prineo and Micropore dressings come off at six weeks, and the compression garment is worn for six weeks. |
| Weeks 6 to 12 | After your six-week review, exercise and more physical work are built up progressively. Most patients are cleared for full activity at the 12-week review. |
| 3 to 12 months | Swelling settles and the scars mature. Reviews at 6 months and 12 months. |
Results
Surgical photographs are restricted to viewers aged 18 and over. The outcomes shown in any photograph are relevant only to the patient pictured, and individual results will vary. You can view the nipple and areola surgery gallery.
Where Dr Kumar operates
Consultations are held at Westmead, Penrith and Orange. If you live a long way from Sydney, you can send photos to Dr Kumar’s team before your first appointment.
Day-case procedures are performed at Somerset Private Hospital in Kingswood or at Westmead Private Hospital, an accredited Ramsay Health Care hospital.
Dr Kumar’s nurses also work on the wards at Westmead Private Hospital. The nurses who prepare you for surgery are the same ones who look after you at every post-operative review.
Common questions
What to expect with the nipple surgery procedure?
After surgery, you can expect some swelling, bruising, soreness, and mild discomfort. These are normal parts of the healing process and usually improve over time. Recovery varies for each patient, and you will be given instructions on postoperative care.
How long does it take to recover after nipple surgery?
Recovery from nipple reshaping procedures is generally quick. You may notice changes within two to four weeks. The rate of recovery can vary depending on factors such as your overall health and individual healing process. Some procedures, such as inverted nipple correction, may cause tenderness or bruising for a longer period, depending on the complexity of the surgery.
How long does nipple reconstruction surgery take?
The procedures typically take between 30 minutes and one hour. The exact duration depends on the type of procedure and whether it is performed alone or alongside other breast surgeries, such as breast reduction, breast lift (mastopexy), or breast augmentation (implants).
Why do nipples stay hard after breast implants?
After breast augmentation procedures, nipples may remain firm or sensitive due to temporary nerve irritation. This is usually a normal part of recovery and often resolves over time.
Do I need a GP referral?
Yes. A GP referral is required to see Dr Kumar, and it is also needed for the Medicare rebate on your consultation.
What does the consultation cost?
Dr Kumar’s initial consultation fee is $400, with a Medicare rebate of approximately $88 with a GP referral. Surgical fees are quoted individually after consultation.
Where is the surgery performed?
Day-case procedures are performed at Somerset Private Hospital in Kingswood or at Westmead Private Hospital. Consultations are held at Westmead, Penrith and Orange.
Can nipple or areola surgery be combined with other breast surgery?
Yes. Areola reduction is often part of a breast lift, reduction or tuberous breast correction, and can be done at the same operation.
Download our Nipple and Areola Surgery Guide
Talk it through with Dr Kumar
If the size or shape of your nipples or areolae is bothering you, a consultation will establish which procedure fits. Dr Kumar consults in Westmead, Penrith and Orange, and a GP referral is required. You can also download a procedure guide first.
This page is intended as general information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. All surgery carries risk, and individual results will vary. Surgical photographs on this website are intended for viewers aged 18 and over. Read more about the risks of surgery here.
Dr Rohit Kumar (MED0001630444) Registered medical practitioner, specialist plastic surgeon (specialist registration in surgery – plastic surgery).
