Tori, 32 yrs old, Dauwe Plastic Surgery patient
About Areola Reconstruction
The shape and projection of the nipple have both cosmetic and functional effects on the breast. The nipple can vary in size, shape, and projection, which leads to a variety of procedures that Dallas, TX plastic surgeon Dr. Phillip Dauwe is pleased to offer his patients. Dauwe Plastic Surgery provides areola restoration, nipple reduction, and nipple inversion correction surgery to service the diverse needs of our patients. Call our Dallas, TX office today to learn how nipple repair surgery can benefit you and give you the appearance and function you desire.
Plan Your Procedure
- Recovery Time :
- 1 – 2 Weeks
- Average Procedure Time:
- 1 – 2 Hours
- Post-op Follow-up:
- Week 2 & 6, Month 3, 6, & 12
- Procedure Recovery Location:
- Outpatient
What are the Benefits of Areola Reconstruction?
No matter the reasons why you find yourself needing nipple reconstruction, here at Dauwe Plastic Surgery, we offer our patients a number of benefits to look forward to with this procedure, including:
- Potential for realistic results following mastectomy or cosmetic breast procedures
- High success rates that provide a degree of confidence when making the decision
- Optimized results from the overall breast enhancement surgery journey
- Three-dimensional nipples that emulate the appearance of natural, untouched nipples
Am I A Good Candidate For Nipple Reconstruction?
You are a great candidate for nipple correction surgery if you are in overall good health, are a nonsmoker, are past childbearing, and at a stable weight. Typically, candidates desire to address the following
- Elongated or stretched nipples
- Overly wide nipples
- Inverted nipples
- Reduce the size of the areola
- Correct the projection of the nipple
- Improve the overall shape and size of the nipple
Areola Reconstruction Surgical Technique
Nipple Reduction
A nipple reduction surgery is used to address elongated or wide nipples. Dr. Dauwe’s approach allows for scarring to be strategically hidden along the natural curves of the nipple and areola. A cylinder of skin is removed from around the base of the nipple and then sutured to close the two sides together. A wide nipple is treated by removing a wedge of tissue to create a more proportionate appearance. The nerves and milk ducts are generally not affected.
Nipple Inversion
Nipple inversion surgery is a simple procedure that can be performed in the office without the need for general anesthesia. Dr. Dauwe will use a long-acting numbing agent to ease any discomfort. The nipple is pulled out to its full length, and a tiny incision is placed along the underside of the nipple. The thick retracted tissue bands are cut one at a time with great care to avoid cutting the milk ducts. The incision is then closed and dressed, and a splint is worn for a few days postoperatively. Nipple inversion surgery usually takes less than one hour.
Areola Reduction
Dr. Dauwe will begin by removing a portion of the circular area (the outer edge) of the areola. This delicate excision process removes excess tissue so that the areola will have a smaller size. The remaining healthy skin is then brought in and tightened to surround the newly created edge and secured with sutures. The stitches are placed just inside the areola margin to help hide scarring and maintain the reduced size as your skin heals.
“Dr. Dauwe possesses a remarkable ability to listen and truly understand the results I was aiming for. He made me feel like I was his only patient, giving me personalized attention and his calm demeanor made the entire process much less stressful. He has an amazing eye for detail and the technical skill to match, delivering results that exceeded my expectations. The whole office team, especially Julie, made me feel comfortable and supported every step of the way. They are not only professional, but also endlessly patient, knowledgeable, and just a joy to be around. The entire experience, from consultation to recovery, was transformative and positive. I couldn’t be happier with my decision to choose Dr. Dauwe and I wholeheartedly recommend him and his team to anyone seeking exceptional care and outstanding results!”
What to Expect for a Areola Reconstruction Procedure
Nipple reduction and inversion surgery are considered outpatient procedures. Many patients can return to normal activities and drive themselves home afterward with little to no discomfort. Typically, you can return to work the following day. Dr. Dauwe will provide a nipple protector bandage that should be worn under the bra for two weeks to aid in proper healing. Optimal results may take several months as the nipples settle into their new position over time.
The recovery for an areola reduction is a bit more extensive. Although the procedure is relatively simple, you should take it easy for the first few weeks to enable optimal healing. Strenuous exercise should also be avoided during this time to help in the recovery process. After about 7 – 10 days, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled so Dr. Dauwe can check on your progress. Final results will occur in the months that follow.
Frequently Asked Questions About Areola Reconstruction
How much does a nipple repair cost?
Can I still breastfeed after a nipple correction surgery?
Will I lose sensation of the nipple after a nipple reduction?
The important sensory nerves are generally deeper than the required incisions for the surgery. Therefore, physical sensation is typically spared after a nipple reduction.
Can men have nipple correction surgery?
Improve your bust
Do you feel self-conscious about the look of your nipples? You deserve to look as good as you feel. Call Dauwe Plastic Surgery in the greater DFW area to discover how a nipple correction surgery can dramatically improve your aesthetic appearance and function. Dr. Dauwe can sit down with you to discuss your concerns and goals to create a personalized treatment plan.
