Reduction in May 2023, my nipples have been ruined. Correction options? (photos)

Question

I had a reduction in May 2023 in which my nipples have been ruined. I would like advice on how one would correct this. My surgeon said “he has never seen this happen.” I am not confident in him attempting to correct this. I also now have “rolls” on my sides of my breasts. Would like advice on correction of this too. He states I should “just accept it as the correction would look worse.” Finally, is it normal to have sagging within a year of reduction/lift? (Pics available.)

Karl William Schwarz, MD · Answer

I don't think your nipples are ruined--what is happening is they are being pulled towards the outside of the breast because they are attached to the underlying tissue (pedicle) and that is falling down and out and taking the nipple and areola with it. It can be fixed by redoing the reduction and sewing the pedicle to the medial aspect of the chest and reducing the size of the pedicle to get rid of the weight. Obviously this would mean another surgery but it might be worth considering or at least discussing it with your surgeon. He is the best person to do this as he did the first surgery and knows where the blood supply to the nipple and areola are so it is also the safest way to do it.

As for the roll--it was there before but not in the same configuration and that's what has changed by lifting the breast the roll has just become more prominent but it is pretty normal so I wouldn't concentrate on revising it.

Ajaya Kashyap, MD · Answer

Thank you for your query. The pulling in and deformity of the nipples is because of scar tissue. The scar tissue can be released and autologous fat grafting can improve  the look of your nipples significantly. Some liposuction on the sides will help with the “side rolls”. Rather than sagging of your breasts   there is some “bottoming out” going on , the tissues moving down while the nipple-areola stay up. This can be corrected only by a revision of the procedure using  a different technique. Please discuss your concerns with your Plastic surgeon who can help you or with another Plastic surgeon who is more experienced with these procedures. All the best!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

From the posted photos it appears you would benefit from a revision to the lift.  This would include correction of the nipples and a nice improvement is very possible.  If you are no longer confident in your surgeon, visit with another board certified plastic surgeon in your area for a consultation.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear lish6902,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Your areolae can be reshaped pretty easily. The main issue  is that your have too much skin and breast tissue in the lower portion of the breast. L. That is also a straightforward  correction to have done

Reduction in May 2023, my nipples have been ruined. Correction options? (photos)

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Answer: Reduction in May 2023

Answer: Reduction in May 2023

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Reduction in May 2023, my nipples have been ruined. Correction options? (photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: Reduction in May 2023

Answer: Reduction in May 2023

Answer: Breast revision

Answer: Breast revision

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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.