What are my options for my puffy/inverted nipples? Age 22. (Photos)

Question

Hello! I have always been quite self conscious about my nipples. I am 22 with an almost one year old, and I didn't have any success breastfeeding long term due to my anatomy. I definitely want (and need) to get something done for them. Is there anything that can be done? When cold, they do go hard temporarily (but still are not attractive). They are not sensitive at all, so am not worried about losing any sensation. I mostly clearly hate the nipple, but want smaller areola as well. Thank you!

Gianfranco Frojo, MD · Answer

I would recommend a breast augmentation with a papule reduction. The breast implant will help push out some of the nipple tissue and the reduction would help make it more symmetric.

Phillip Chang, MD · Answer

Hi Liv8204

The most common reasons for nipple reconstruction are:

- 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
For more information about this procedure, please visit our website.

Sam Speron, MD, FACS · Answer

There are a lot of factors to consider when it comes to puffy or inverted nipples. An examination would have to been done to find out what best fits you.
This is a common procedure that most people don’t even know is an option. Surgeons can improve puffy or inverted nipples with a wide variety of surgical and nonsurgical simple office procedures under local anesthesia.
This can typically be done in the office under local anesthesia. Usually there are no drains, no outside stitches, and patients can go out in public the same day. Most of the initial swelling is from the numbing medicine and your body absorbs it within the first 4-6 hours. Obviously the body heals with swelling and inflammation and usually that maxes out at two days and then starts getting better. Most of these patients take no pain medicine and usually feel very comfortable going out in public within a few days.  I usually call my patients the night of surgery and check on them the next day. If everything is fine the next day, I then let them shower and they do not need a dressing over their incisions. They can usually start using make up after a few days.  At the two week check up, I usually have people start working out and then after six weeks they can do whatever they want. 
Additionally with recovery, there're many things we do to expedite healing such as nerve blocks during surgery, oral supplements, skin care and scar therapy recommendations, lymphatic massage sessions that are included in our pricing.
I strongly feel that it's very important to have an honest conversation with your surgeon about your particular situation, lifestyle, work environment and specifically which procedures you're having done so that you both have the most honest answer about your recovery and are realistic with expectations and results.
I would recommend that you see a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area that is a member of both ASPS & ASAPS and performs a lot of breast and nipple surgery.
I hope this helps and wish you all the best in your surgery and event. If it does, please take a moment to up vote this answer on the “respond” button on the top right.

Shana Kalaria, MD · Answer

Hello. I can see the puffiness which is bothering you. I would recommend a periareolar mastopexy which in your case would be essentially an areola reduction and a nipple reduction to reduce the nipple diameter and projection. Be sure to visit with a board-certified plastic surgeon for your consultation. Good luck!

Michael E. Ciaravino, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

Thank you for your question and the photos you provided. Based on your images, I would recommend an in-person consultation with an experienced breast surgeon to evaluate your concerns and determine the best course of treatment. There are nipple enhancement procedures that can reverse the inversion you are concerned about and create a more proportionate appearance to the nipple and the areola. Be sure the surgeon you choose is board-certified and experienced in a wide range of breast enhancement procedures to ensure the best possible results. While you may not be able to preserve sensation or your ability to breastfeed with these procedure, your history suggests this may not be a factor. Best wishes on a successful surgery to improve your appearance and your self-confidence!

What are my options for my puffy/inverted nipples? Age 22. (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Periareolar mastopexy/areola reduction and nipple reduction

Answer: Periareolar mastopexy/areola reduction and nipple reduction

Answer: What are my options for my puffy/inverted nipples?

Answer: What are my options for my puffy/inverted nipples?

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Inverted Nipple Surgery

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

What are my options for my puffy/inverted nipples? Age 22. (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Periareolar mastopexy/areola reduction and nipple reduction

Answer: Periareolar mastopexy/areola reduction and nipple reduction

Answer: What are my options for my puffy/inverted nipples?

Answer: What are my options for my puffy/inverted nipples?

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Inverted Nipple Surgery

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