Considering Nipples and Areolas as Part of Overall Breast Aesthetics

Breast augmentation and breast lifts may be among the most popular procedures in the field of cosmetic surgery, but cosmetic procedures for the nipples and areolas can also deliver significant aesthetic enhancements. This is because the nipple and surrounding areola—the pigmented skin around the nipples—serve as a central focal point for each breast. Their look, shape and placement help define the overall appearance and symmetry of the breasts.

As found with other physical features, potential imperfections with the nipples and areolas can be a natural factor present since birth, or can evolve over time due to developmental and hormonal reasons. Additionally, trauma due to an accident or surgery can bring noticeable changes. Whatever the source of dissatisfaction with one’s nipples and/or areolas, plastic surgeons offer a number of procedures designed to correct potential flaws.

Cosmetic Procedures for the Nipples and Areolas

Cosmetic procedures for nipples and areolas are often performed in conjunction with other procedures, such as breast lifts, breast reductions, augmentation or as part of reconstructive surgery. However, the following aesthetic procedures can also be performed as stand-alone surgeries:

• Breast Lift
• Nipple Reduction
• Inverted Nipple Correction
• Supernumerary Nipple Correction
• Areola Reshaping

Breast lifts are among the most sought after cosmetic procedure involving nipples and areolas. Clinically referred to as “breast ptosis,” nipples that are positioned too low relative to the rest of the breast are often found in patients with enlarged breasts, or can develop over time due to aging skin, or after breast-feeding. Breast ptosis correction lifts the nipples to a more aesthetic position, and can improve overall symmetry by re-positioning nipples that are too narrowly or widely spread apart. The procedure will also help improve size, shape, and symmetry of the areolas while giving the breast a more youthful appearance.

Also referred to as “hypertrophy,” enlarged nipples can be caused by natural over-development, or emerge due to the effects of breastfeeding. Some women seek nipple reduction surgery because they are concerned that hypertrophic nipples are too conspicuous, but nipple hypertrophy can also be uncomfortable due to chafing and irritation. There are a number of corrective fixes, but surgical tissue removal is the most common.

Inverted nipples, lack normal protrusion and lie below the surrounding skin surface. It can occur at various stages of a woman’s life; presenting itself in early childhood, during adolescence, or occurring after the breast tissue diminishes with the conclusion of breast feeding. There are different levels of contraction, as well as a variety of causes. In general, surgical fixes rely on releasing the surrounding tissues, and restoring a natural protruding position.

Supernumerary Nipples Are a Common Condition

Supernumerary nipples, which can also include accessory breast tissue, occur in both females and males at a rate of about one out of 18 people. They often resemble moles or other benign skin conditions, but can present more like nipples, and even lactate, depending upon hormonal activity and the amount of accessory breast tissue. Corrective procedures generally include full removal of the supernumerary nipple, areola and all associated breast tissue.

While some areola irregularity or asymmetry is normal, sometimes the imperfections can impair a woman’s self-esteem. Whether the areola is too big, too small or misshapen, surgical improvements generally involves removing skin adjacent to, or within the areola and suturing it and the surrounding skin to provide the desired symmetry, shape and size.

Highly Skilled Nipple and Areola Surgery in Naples, Florida

Naples, Florida-based Gardner Plastic Surgery specializes in all forms of cosmetic breast surgery, including procedures involving the nipples and areolas. As experienced cosmetic breast surgeons, Dr. Paul Gardner and Dr. Leo Baccaro combine their vast knowledge of all breast surgery procedures with the latest surgical techniques and a keen artistic eye to produce outstanding results for their patients. To learn how our doctors can help you achieve the breast symmetry you desire, contact Gardner Plastic Surgery today at 239.566.2611 to schedule your initial consultation.