Does the nipple get removed completely during a lift?

Hello and thank you for your question. This depends on the technique used but I generally prefer to keep the nipple attached by a stalk (or pedicle) as this maintains a better sensation and blood supply. Very occasionally I completely remove the nipple and areolar and replace as a graft. You should see a Plastic Surgeon to discuss this further.

Hi in2minds,

Generally speaking, if the nipples are lower than the inframammary line the patient will most likely need a breast lift. If the nipples are at or above the inframammary line we can generally get by with just breast augmentation depending on the size of the implant the patient wants. I often use an implant when I perform a breast lift because it provides more upper breast fullness after the lift.

Breast lift surgery aims to re-volumize the breast with either and natural implant or fat grafting followed by nipple repositioning using the lift. I prefer to use a vertical incision (lollipop pattern) breast reduction technique instead of the anchor scar pattern for more significant lifts. This reduces more noticeable scarring than usual. Mastopexy that requires less than 2cm of lift only needs a donut incision. Every incision is also closed in five precise layers without using reactive sutures that can cause inflammation and eventual scarring.

If you are considering a breast lift, you should consult with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options and make sure your surgeon understands your goals. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.

Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery

Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery

Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Thank you for your question. There has been major improvements in breast lifting technology in the past 15yrs. Not only has the vertical component been successfully eliminated without compromising shape nor lift, but preservation of nipple sensation and the ability to breast feed have also been improved. The Bellesoma Method is a breast lifting and reduction technique that never detaches the NAC (nipple areola complex) from the blood supply nor lactiferous ducts which allow women to breast feed. Sensation is maintained regardless of breast size or reduction. TBM is a full lift that has been peer reviewed and performed for many years. You are welcome to visit my gallery on this site to view many examples. The woman below underwent TBM without breast implants nor the ugly vertical scar. I hope this helps you make a more informed decision. Best wishes and kind regards, 

There are several different techniques that are used during a mastopexy (breast lift) to ensure that the nipple is both viable and aesthetically pleasing to the patient. The most commonly used techniques do not require removal of the nipple; however, there are certain situations in which removing the nipple would be more beneficial for the desired outcome. I recommend seeing a board-certified plastic surgeon for an in-person consultation to discuss the best option for you. Best of luck!

hello thank you for your question and provided information as well..based on what you ask, depends on the type of technique that would be used in your case, but do not completely remove the nipples, only small areas are removed and it depends on the technique, because if they are completely removed the sensitivity is totally affected,My recommendation is that you are consulted in person by a certified plastic surgeon who sees you and evaluates what technique you apply, and can discuss everything related to the subject.

Hello there The nipple stays attached to the deeper breast tissue and is rotated up into its new position .We almost never need to take it off completely .CheersTS

Hello. The nipple ought to stay attached to the underlying breast tissue during a lift procedure. This ensures that the nipple maintains a good blood supply and has higher chances of retaining its sensation. The skin around the nipple is removed according to how much of a lift is required and the gland is reshaped. Everything is then stitched back in place to give the breast its new shape and enhance its contour and projection.

As in during a reduction, in a lift, the nipple stays on a small "island" of breast tissue and swings up to a new higher position. The top layer of the skin around the newly sized nipple/areola is removed, and this denuded area is buried underneath other tissue leaving it to appear that the nipple has been removed and put back on after a reduction or lift, when in reality it has not been taken off the body at any point.

It is very unusual to detached the nipple and reattach it again. Most techniques for breast lift allow the nipple to stay attached the breast tissue in order to keep the blood supply.

Thank you for your question.During a breast lift procedure, the nipple is moved to its new location while it is still attached to the underlying breast tissue - the idea being that the nipple will still have its nerve supply (so it has sensation) and blood supply (so that it stays alive!).There are some rare occasions where the nipple is removed completely and replaced as a graft, but never in a simple breast lift - in cases of massive breast reduction procedures where the amount of tissue you would need to leave behind to keep the nipple alive would not allow for an adequate reduction.Talk things over with your PS before your procedure to confirm the plan.I hope this helps.