Areola Reconstruction in Dallas, TX

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. Phillip Dauwe, M.D. 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.

Nipple Reduction
Nipple enlargement or nipple hypertrophy can be caused by genetics, puberty, or breastfeeding. Nipple reduction surgery is performed to reduce the size and projection of elongated nipples for a more symmetrical shape. It can also correct nipples that appear too wide.

Nipple Inversion
It is estimated that about 10% of women have at least one inverted nipple. There are varying degrees of this condition, as some inverted nipples can be reversible with stimulation while others cannot. The most common causes of inverted nipples are short ducts and tethering bands of tissue that pull the nipple inward. Cosmetic surgery helps correct these issues.

Areola Reduction
In some cases, the areola is naturally disproportionate to the nipple or can become too wide or stretched after breastfeeding, hormone changes, or weight fluctuation. The areola can even develop raised bumps called Montgomery glands. Areolar reduction surgery reduces the size of the areola to complement the size and shape of the breast and nipple. 

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

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

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.

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.

How much does a nipple repair cost?
The cost of a nipple repair surgery will depend on the type of correction performed, your unique condition, and if it’s being combined with another cosmetic procedure. The exact cost of your surgery can be discussed with Dr. Dauwe during your initial consult.

Can I still breastfeed after a nipple correction surgery?
It is recommended that women complete childbearing prior to any nipple surgery as as it could interfere with breastfeeding. However, inverted nipples can interfere with breastfeeding, so Dr. Dauwe commonly corrects the inversion to enable proper breastfeeding function. During a nipple reduction or inversion surgery, the milk ducts are spared so the patient will still be able to breastfeed afterward. While it is uncommon, it is important to understand that breastfeeding may no longer be possible for some patients after this type of 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 I have a nipple repair at the same time as a breast lift or breast augmentation?
Yes. A nipple repair is commonly performed in conjunction with other cosmetic breast surgeries. A nipple reduction or inversion can also be done solely in the office without the need for anesthesia.

Can men have nipple correction surgery?
Yes. Nipple surgeries, including areola reduction, are quite common for men, as well as women. Gynecomastia is the technical term for what we commonly call "man boobs," and can be corrected by Dr. Dauwe. In many cases, gynecomastia can cause a man to have enlarged areolas, which can be addressed with cosmetic surgery.

Do you feel self-conscious about the look of your nipples? You deserve to look as good as you feel. Call Phillip Dauwe, M.D. 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.