Typical Timing/Age
After the completion of childbearing and breastfeeding.
Problem
Excessively long or projecting nipples. Excessively large areolas are treated with a mastopexy.
Procedure
Depending on the size the length of the nipple, different techniques are used to reduce nipple size. Nipple reduction can be performed in the office under local anesthesia or in an operating room at the time of another procedure.
Goal
To reduce nipple size and projection.
Facility
Office/Clinic
Preparation
Patients should have no future plans for breastfeeding as a nipple reduction may make breastfeeding difficult or no longer possible.
Anesthesia
Local anesthesia if done in the office.
Hospital stay
Most patients go home after surgery. If done with only local anesthesia, patients can drive themselves home.
Assistance
You will be able to walk around, feed and bathe yourself. Depending on your pain medication requirements, you may not be able to care for others or drive a car.
Walking After Surgery
You are encouraged to walk around the house as much as possible to help reduce the risk of DVT and thromboembolism.
Showering
You may shower the day of the procedure.
Exercise
Exercise is ok 1 week after surgery.
Sex
Wait 1 week because you don’t want to increase your blood pressure during the early healing period. After 1 week, sex is ok ONLY if your partner is able to resist touching your nipples. You are the only person allowed to touch your nipples for 6 weeks following surgery.
Work
1 day to no time at all off work, depending on your type of work and pain medication requirements.
Swelling
Usually minimal.
Bruising
Usually not present.
Inherent Risks & Complications
Bleeding, Infection, Poor scarring, Inability to breastfeed, Pain.
Performed by: Dr. Butler, Dr. Leveque, Dr. Patterson
