I’m getting a reduction and I have nipple piercings. I’ve had them for 10 months now. Can I keep them after the reduction?

Question

I want my breast reduction but i also want to keep my nipple piercing! i was told I could have complications with my nipples after the surgery.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Your nipple piercings would need to be removed for the surgery.  Once you have healed from surgery and cleared by your surgeon you can elect to have them re-pierced if you wish.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

For safety reasons, because the piercings are near the surgery site, you will want to remove them. Get in touch with your PS and anesthesiologist to determine when the nipple piercings have to be removed. Your PS will tell you when it is safe to reinsert the piercings after your breasts have healed.

Scott C. Lindsay, DO · Answer

Thanks for your question! You really should leave them out for at least a week to reduce the risk of infection. At that point, they will likely close and re-piercing would be something you’d have to consider. Many patients opt to keep them out after surgery. Good luck!

Irena Karanetz, MD · Answer

Hi,
Thank you for the question. 
Piercing the nipple can affect the blood flow to the nipple, but typically after 12 months, it should be safe to perform breast reduction surgery. It is also important to know which breast reduction technique is being used because that can affect nipple projection and ability to wear nipple piercing afterwards. 
I suggest that you seek an in person consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon specializing in Breast Reduction surgeries to further discuss your options, specific techniques, concerns and expectations. Make sure you specifically look at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results. 
I hope this helps.Best regards, Dr. Karanetz
Dr. Irena KaranetzFellowship-TrainedBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Your surgeon will probably want the piercings removed ahead of time. You can get them reprieved after the reduction is healed.

I’m getting a reduction and I have nipple piercings. I’ve had them for 10 months now. Can I keep them after the reduction?

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I’m getting a reduction and I have nipple piercings. I’ve had them for 10 months now. Can I keep them after the reduction?

Answers (9)

Answer: Nipple piercings after breast reduction

Answer: Nipple piercings after breast reduction

Answer: Breast reduction

Answer: Breast reduction

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.